Understanding Body Language Restrictions in Passport Photos

Neutral facial expression in passport photos is required. Avoid showing emotions. Follow guidelines for a professional appearance.

Body language, also known as nonverbal communication, is the transmission of communicative messages through gestures, facial expressions, body posture, tone of voice, and eye contact.

Body language is considered an important form of communication in establishing relationships because emotions are often conveyed nonverbally. Reading, interpreting, and articulating this body language is often the first step in making contact with others.

One of the most important forms of body language is facial expression.

Expressing Emotions Through Body Language

There are six basic emotions that can be expressed through body language:

Anger: speaking louder, pacing, stamping feet, pounding fists, slamming doors or dishes.
Fear: sudden fright or continuous vigilance (being on guard or a phobia).
Disgust: nausea, retching, loss of appetite, vomiting, aversion, or gesturing to keep someone away.
Surprise: freezing in place, gasping, putting hands to head or mouth, nonverbal exclamations.
Joy: smiling, feeling good.
Sadness: [crying](/glossary/passport-photo-crying "Crying in Passport Photos", longing for touch, putting an arm around someone.

Rules for Body Language on Passport Photos

The guidelines for passport photos state that you must have a neutral facial expression. You must look directly at the camera with a neutral expression and a closed mouth.

Body language should not be displayed, as emotions such as anger, fear, disgust, surprise, joy, or sadness should not be visible.

Wide smiling or an open mouth is not allowed. However, this does not mean that you should look grumpy or surly.