Why Does Your ID Photo Get Rejected?
Photo rejection is one of the most common reasons passport, visa and CCCD applications are sent back. According to data from Vietnam's Immigration Department, about 15–20% of online applications are rejected because of non-compliant photos.
Consequences of a Rejected Photo
- You have to resubmit, adding 1–2 weeks to the timeline
- Extra cost for new photos
- Risk of missing flights or visa interviews
- Unnecessary stress and worry
15 Common Reasons ID Photos Get Rejected
Group 1: Size and Format Errors
1. Wrong Photo Size
Each document type has its own size requirement. Use the wrong size and the photo is rejected immediately:
- Vietnamese passport: 4x6 cm (40x60 mm)
- US visa: 5x5 cm (51x51 mm / 2x2 inch)
- CCCD / 3x4 photo: 3x4 cm (30x40 mm)
- Driver licence: 3x4 cm (30x40 mm)
2. Resolution Too Low
Photos must be at least 300 DPI. Front-facing phone cameras typically have lower resolution than rear cameras and are more likely to be rejected.
3. File Size Out of Range
| Application | Required file size |
|---|---|
| Public Service Portal (passport) | 50 KB – 500 KB |
| DS-160 (US visa) | Maximum 240 KB |
| Online driver-licence renewal | Maximum 700 KB |
Group 2: Background Errors
4. Wrong Background Color
- Passport, US visa: must be white (#FFFFFF)
- Driver licence: must be light blue
- Common mistakes: grey, beige, or gradient backgrounds
5. Shadows on the Background
Standing too close to the wall casts shadows behind you. Stand at least 50 cm from the wall and use light from multiple directions.
6. Objects in the Background
Any object showing in the background — furniture, a window, another person — will get the photo rejected.
Group 3: Face Errors
7. Face Doesn't Fill the Frame Correctly
Per ICAO standards, the face must occupy 70–80% of the photo height. Photos taken too far away or too close are both rejected.
8. Head Tilted or Turned
The head must be perfectly straight and facing the camera. A tilt of even 5–10 degrees can be flagged by the automated check.
9. Wrong Expression
- Not allowed: smiling, grimacing, open mouth, squinting
- Required: neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes naturally open
10. Eyes Obscured or Unclear
Biometric recognition needs a clear view of the irises. Common errors:
- Eyes covered by hair or fringe
- Wearing sunglasses or mirrored lenses
- Closed or squinting eyes
- Red-eye from direct flash
New Rules on Eyeglasses
Since 2016, the US Department of State does NOT accept visa photos with eyeglasses, including prescription glasses. In Vietnam, prescription glasses are still allowed for passport photos but must not be mirrored or reflective.
Group 4: Attire and Accessory Errors
11. White Shirt on White Background
A white shirt blends into the white background, making the collar line disappear. Wear dark colors instead — navy, black, brown.
12. Hats or Head Coverings
Religious head coverings are the only exception, and they must not obscure the face or cast shadows. All other hats are prohibited.
13. Earphones or Accessories
Bluetooth earphones, AirPods, or any electronic device on the person will cause the photo to be rejected.
Group 5: Technical Errors
14. Blurry or Noisy Photo
Photos must be sharp and free of motion blur. Use a phone stand and ensure enough light to capture a crisp image.
15. Edited Photos
Beauty-filter apps that change facial features will get the photo rejected. Automated systems can detect Photoshop edits, smoothing filters, and face-slimming effects.
Important Note
Your passport photo must reflect your current appearance. If you've had cosmetic surgery or your appearance has significantly changed since your CCCD was issued, you should renew your CCCD before applying for a passport online.
The Fix: Use Ảnh Thẻ AI
Instead of worrying about every rule, use Ảnh Thẻ AI to handle them automatically:
- Background removal: AI removes the background and replaces it with the correct color
- Face alignment: ensures the 70–80% face ratio per ICAO
- Size optimization: exports the file at the correct pixel size and file size
- ICAO check: validates the photo before download
Create a 100% Compliant ID Photo
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Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
How do I know my photo is ICAO-compliant?
When you use Ảnh Thẻ, the system automatically validates the photo and reports any issue. You'll see a green "ICAO Compliant" check mark on the processed photo.
Do you refund if the photo is rejected?
At Ảnh Thẻ, we offer a 100% refund if the photo is rejected by the authorities (provided you chose the right photo type and followed the shooting guide).
Can I retouch a rejected photo myself?
You should not edit photos in Photoshop or beauty apps — automated systems can detect this and reject the result. Take a fresh photo and use a professional service.