THE UNITED STATES Embassy to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) advises that, effective November 1, 2016, applicants for US passports and visas must remove their eyeglasses for US passport and visa photos.
The US 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 US passport and US 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.
Applicants should ensure that they have removed their eyeglasses for their US passport and visa photos to avoid any delays in processing applications. (PR)
