Your passport application can’t be approved without first submitting a picture. This image will potentially stay with you for up to 10 years – so it’s understandable that you’ll want to look your best on it and be proud to flash it at the border. You might, of course, already have a few cherished pictures that you know would fit this bill and want to use one of these instead. The question is: how recent does your passport photo have to be? Let’s take a look at what you need to know.
Can you use an old photo?
No. This might not be the news that you want to hear, but the guidelines are clear that the image ‘must be taken in the last month’. You’ll be breaking the rules if your image hasn’t been taken within this timeframe and this could cause delays for your passport application – which could be extremely detrimental if you’ve got a trip planned.
Could you try anyway?
It’s not recommended that you breach any of the rules. Aside from the fact that it could delay your application, you’ll also be putting your countersignature in an awkward position. This individual – who must have ‘good standing in the community’ – must vouch that the photo you submit is a true likeness of you. This is unlikely to be the case if the picture is old.
What’s the reason for it?
The point of your passport photo is that it must be a clear representation of your appearance for when you leave and enter different countries. You risk causing delays or arousing suspicion if your passport photo isn’t accurate. Don’t forget that adult passport photos can last for a decade, which is a rather generous timeframe. This means that an older picture will just further compromise how recognisable you’ll be from your passport photo in 10 years time.
It’s time to start fresh!
It’s more than possible to take a new passport picture that you just love – especially since you can now do so from your own home. You can now take your time to take a photo that you’re happy with before having it looked over by Paspic. This way you’ll know it meets all the guidelines before you submit it alongside your passport application.
