New photos are only required if your appearance has significantly changed from what is in your photo. Growing a beard or
coloring your hair would not constitute a significant change. If you can still be identified from the photo in your current
passport or visa application, you do not need to apply for a new passport or submit a new photo for your visa application.
However, you may have to apply for a new passport or submit a new photo for your visa application if you have:
- Undergone significant facial surgery or trauma
- Added or removed numerous/large facial piercings or tattoos
- Undergone a significant amount of weight loss or gain
- Made a gender transition
The acceptance of your photo is at the discretion of the U.S. passport agency where you apply for a passport or U.S. embassy
or consulate where you apply for a visa.