Passport Photo Background Color Requirements

An incorrect background is one of the most common causes of passport photo rejection worldwide.

Required Background Color

Almost all countries require a plain white or off-white background. It must be:

• Plain and uniform — no patterns, textures, or objects
• White or very light grey — no dark or colored backgrounds
• Shadow-free — no shadows cast by the subject
• Without gradients or uneven lighting

Background Color by Country

• USA: Plain white or off-white
• UK: Plain light grey or cream
• EU / Schengen: White or light grey
• India: White
• China: White

How to Get a Clean Background at Home

• Stand in front of a plain white wall
• Use a large white sheet or card pinned to the wall
• Stand at least 50 cm away from the background to avoid shadows
• Use natural light from a window facing you

Eliminating Background Shadows

Shadows are the most common background issue. To prevent them: use soft, diffuse lighting in front of you; keep distance between yourself and the background; avoid single overhead light sources.