Can you smile or show your teeth in a passport photo?
Mostly no. The UK, Canada and Australia require a neutral expression with your mouth closed, and India says no grinning; the US passport page allows a smile with your mouth closed but no teeth.
Rules checked on · official sources only
What each country says
| Country | Answer | Official quote | Source | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United StatesPassport | Yes, you can smile, but keep your mouth closed and avoid exaggerated expressions; the online-renewal page says avoid showing teeth. | Avoid exaggerated facial expressions. You can smile in your photo. Just make sure your eyes are open and your mouth is closed. Use a neutral facial expression or natural smile. Avoid showing teeth. |
travel.state.gov travel.state.gov |
|
| United Kingdom | No. You need a plain expression with your mouth closed. Examiners may accept a relaxed mouth with teeth visible if facial features aren't distorted. | be facing forwards and looking straight at the camera have a plain expression and your mouth closed You must accept the photo when: the customer’s mouth is relaxed and: their teeth are visible or lips are slightly open their facial features are not distorted |
gov.uk HM Passport Office examiner guidance |
|
| Canada | No. A neutral expression is required: mouth closed, not smiling or frowning. | A neutral facial expression means that: your eyes are open and clearly visible you’re looking straight at the camera your mouth is closed you’re not smiling or frowning |
canada.ca | |
| Australia | No. Anyone over 3 must have a neutral expression with eyes open; smiling is not permitted. Children under 3 may have their mouth open. | Anyone over 3 years old must face the camera straight on, with eyes open and a neutral expression. Smiling is not permitted – must be a neutral expression |
passports.gov.au passports.gov.au (PDF) |
|
| India | No grinning. The facial expression should be natural. Showing teeth is not mentioned separately. | Expression of the face should be natural (no grinning, frowning or raised eyebrows) |
passportindia.gov.in |
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Answers quote the official pages linked above. Not affiliated with any government. Final acceptance is up to the issuing authority.