Background may not meet our requirements
"Background may not meet our requirements" is a message shown by MyTravelGov online passport renewal. A soft shadow behind you on a plain white wall is enough for the upload tool to flag the background, even when the wall itself is white. First step: Step about a metre away from the wall so your body no longer casts a shadow on it.
Why it happens
A soft shadow behind you on a plain white wall is enough for the upload tool to flag the background, even when the wall itself is white.
What to do
- 1.Step about a metre away from the wall so your body no longer casts a shadow on it.
- 2.Face the light source (a window or two lamps) so the background stays evenly lit.
- 3.Re-shoot and upload the new photo rather than editing the shadow out, which the State Department forbids.
Official wording
Background may not meet our requirements
Source: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/online-renewal-photo.html
Traced to: spec us/passport-renewal-digital portalQuirks
Affected documents
Frequently asked questions
We are an independent service, not a government website. Applying for a passport or visa is done with your government; we only prepare the photo.