US Embassy warns Nigerians against using AI-edited passport photos

The United States Mission in Nigeria has warned passport applicants not to use artificial intelligence (AI) or digitally edited photographs for their passport applications, stating that such images will not be accepted.

In a reminder posted on its official X account on Friday, July 31, the mission stressed that passport photographs must be genuine, recent and accurately reflect the applicant’s current appearance.

The embassy advised applicants to avoid using AI tools, beauty filters or any form of digital enhancement when taking passport photos. It said: “Reminder! Do NOT use AI or digital editing tools on your passport photo. We will not accept photos that are edited or filtered.”

The mission added that passport photographs must have been taken within the last six months and should closely resemble the applicant to ensure easy identification by U.S. border officials. It stated: “Your photo should be recent (taken within the past six months) and look like you (the TSA or CBP agent must be able to tell it’s you).”

The embassy further warned that submitting a digitally enhanced photograph could significantly delay the processing of a passport application. It said: “Submitting a digitally enhanced photo will significantly delay your application.”

Applicants were also encouraged to consult the U.S. Department of State’s passport photo guidelines for detailed information on the required photo standards.