The passport is a vital document, since officially identifies it before the authorities and facilitates its international trips. Therefore, if the photo does not meet the requirements, it can generate multiple inconveniences when traveling. There are nine frequent errors that could complicate their procedures and their passage through migrationso it is essential to check them carefully before submitting their application.
According to the Foreign Ministry of Colombia, A passport photo can be considered incorrect if it presents any of the following nine errors:
1. Inadequate lighting: The photos must have a uniform lighting that clearly see all the features of the face. Strong shadows, the reflex of the flash or unequal light can make identification difficult and make the photo rejected.
2. Incorrect fund: The background of the photograph must be completely white and uniform, without objects, decorations or textures that distract. An inappropriate background can cause the photo not to meet the official standards.
3. Inappropriate facial expression: The person must maintain a neutral expression, with their mouths closed and without smiling. Exaggerated gestures, frowning or showing teeth can invalidate photography to the authorities.
4. Covered face: Accessories that hide any part of the face are not allowed, such as dark glasses, caps, scarves or hair on the forehead or eyes. The features must be completely visible to guarantee the correct identification.
(Read more: The best paid profession in Colombia that almost no one studies, according to AI)
Passport photo
Source: Canva
5. Image quality: The photo must be clear and focused, without being blurred, pixelated or with low resolution. A poor quality image can hinder the verification of identity and cause the return of the document.
6. wrong proportions: The face must occupy an adequate size inside the frame, focused and with the correct height according to the standards. If the face is too small, large or misaligned, the photo will be rejected.
7. Clothing that does not meet standards: It is recommended to wear neutral or light colored clothes. Uniforms, striking prints or colors that are confused with the background are not acceptable and can generate problems when evaluating the photo.
8. Shadows or reflexes on the face: Any shadow projected on the face or reflexes that distort facial features affect the visibility of the face and can invalidate photography to the immigration authority.
9. Incorrect size or format: Photography must strictly comply with the official dimensions and requested format, whether physical or digital. Photos too large, small or in incorrect format will not be accepted.
(Read more: In Belgium they worship it: Colombia increasingly exports this product they love in the world)
Do you need a new passport if your appearance changed?
According to the official site of the United States Department (Travel.state.gov), it is only necessary to request a new passport when the appearance of the holder has changed significantly, while minor changes such as letting the beard grow, dyeing the hair or the normal effect of aging do not require a new document, since the face remains recognizable.
On the other hand, important modifications such as surgeries or facial trauma that alter the featuresthe addition or elimination of multiple piercings or large facial tattoos, or considerable variations of weight justify renewing both photography and passport, guaranteeing that identification is precise and avoiding problems traveling internationally.
Keep the photo updated allows travelers to circulate calmly and comply with the identification standards required by the authorities, avoiding delays, additional reviews or even the refusal of entry into certain destinations.
