Travel Experts Warn Against TikTok’s Viral Passport Trend

Travel experts are cautioning against TikTok’s popular passport trend, which could lead to potential delays at airports.

During the start of the busy travel season, a recent TikTok trend has emerged where individuals are glamming up for passport photos and arranging ideal photo shoots with good lighting.

In a popular video, Amelia Marni, a content creator, showcased her technique for taking the perfect ID photo. She had her friends help by holding up a phone flashlight to ensure the lighting was just right.

The video, which has amassed over 3.5 million views, features Amelia stating, “POV: You desire a flattering passport photo.”In the caption, she declares, “We will do whatever it takes.”

@ameliamarni
we won’t stop at nothin #passport #passportphoto #passportmakeup #funny @RileyMinford

♬ Just A Girl – No Doubt

Nevertheless, although this may boost their confidence in their ID photo, it could result in extra scrutiny during passport control. This was demonstrated by TikTok user Beth Gould in a video she shared.

She clarified that due to the passport machines not identifying her photo as resembling her current appearance, additional ID verification procedures were necessary with the airport personnel.

A comment from a viewer stated, “I can’t help but wonder how many others have experienced this after following the ‘passport photo / DL photo’ trend of heavy makeup.”Additionally, another viewer shared, “I actually went through this exact situation earlier this week.”

@bethgould_
Humbled in Taiwan but also in my Alisha Marie era ✈️🌍🗺️ #passport #passportphoto #passportmakeup #passportphototrend #passportdenied #taiwan #taipei #badpassportphoto

♬ original sound – bethgould

According to Gemma Brown, Head of Product at Travel Republic, there are no specific guidelines for makeup in passport photos. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that the purpose of a passport photo is to accurately identify the individual.

Despite feeling embarrassed by their ID images, these photos serve as an important security measure to prevent fraud, maintain border safety, and facilitate easy identification of travelers.

Gemma cautioned against excessively altering one’s appearance in photographs as it could potentially delay the verification process at the airport if there is a significant difference between the person and the photo presented.

She pointed out that making small changes to your appearance, such as growing a beard or switching up your hairstyle, usually won’t require you to get a new passport. However, if you undergo significant changes, like major facial reconstruction or plastic surgery that significantly alters your core features, you will need to apply for a new passport.

After a beauty expert spoke out against the lemon juice hair lightening craze, this has become the latest trend to be warned against by experts.