The U.S. Embassy in Barbados is advising that, effective November 1, 2016, applicants for U.S. passports and visas must remove their eyeglasses for U.S. passport and visa photos.
The U.S. Department of State is implementing this policy to enhance the security of the application process and improve officers’ ability to quickly verify the identity of applicants.
Applicants may wear eyeglasses for U.S. passport and U.S. visa photos if they have a medical issue, such as a recent surgery, and require eyeglasses to protect their eyes.
If applicants must wear eyeglasses for medical reasons, they will need to submit a signed statement with their application from a medical professional or health practitioner, such as a surgeon or ophthalmologist.
