The US Department of State has announced that it will seize processing passport and visa applications with photos in which the applicant is wearing glasses, effective from November 1, 2016. 

In a notice issued on Monday, the US Embassy has said that applicants for US passport and US visa should ensure that they have removed their glasses to avoid any delays in processing applications.

“Applicants may wear glasses for US passport and US visa photos only if they have a medical issue, such as a recent surgery, and require glasses to protect their eyes,” reads the embassy notice.

“If applicants must wear glasses for medical reasons, they will need to submit with their application a signed statement from a medical professional or health practitioner, such as a surgeon or ophthalmologist,” it adds.