Guides · 4 min read
Passport photo with hijab, turban or head covering (2026 rules)
Every major passport office worldwide accepts religious and medical head coverings — hijab, turban, kippah, patka, medical wrap — as long as one rule is met: the full face is clearly visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, without shadow.
The one rule that matters
The ICAO 9303 standard, which every ePassport in the world uses, allows head coverings for religious or medical reasons. The condition is uniform across the US State Department, UK HMPO, Passport Canada, DFAT Australia, Indian RPO and every EU passport office: the face must be fully visible.
- Chin fully visible — no fabric covering the jawline.
- Full forehead visible — hairline not required, but forehead skin must be.
- Both cheeks visible from top to bottom of the face oval.
- No shadow cast by the head covering onto the face.
- Neutral color that contrasts with the background (dark hijab on light background is best).
What is not allowed
The niqab (which covers the mouth and nose) and the full burqa are not accepted in any passport photo. Neither is a hat, cap, hood or fashion scarf that is not worn for religious or medical reasons.
By country: small variations to know
The core rule is universal but a few countries add small notes.
- France (ANTS): asks for a supporting statement if the covering is not commonly recognized.
- Germany (Bundesdruckerei): recommends photographing at a studio experienced with biometrische Passbilder.
- India (RPO): head covering allowed but ears should still be visible if possible.
- US State Department: no supporting document required — the office simply verifies face visibility.
Frequently asked questions
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