The United States Mission in Nigeria has warned visa applicants against using artificial intelligence tools or digitally altered photographs in their passport applications, stressing that such images will not be accepted.
The mission issued the warning in a statement shared on its official X account on Saturday, where it emphasised that passport photographs must accurately reflect the applicant’s current appearance.
According to the mission, photographs submitted as part of the application process must have been taken within the last six months and should not contain filters or any form of digital enhancement.
“Do NOT use AI or digital editing tools on your passport photo. We will not accept photos that are edited or filtered.
“Your photo should be recent (taken within the past six months) and look like you. Submitting a digitally enhanced photo will significantly delay your application,” the statement read.
The warning was accompanied by an information flier reiterating the policy.
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“Do not use AI or digital editing tools on your passport photo. The Department of State will not accept photos that are edited or filtered.
“Using a digitally enhanced photo will significantly delay your application,” the notice stated.
The mission also advised applicants to familiarise themselves with the official guidelines issued by the United States Department of State before submitting their documents.
The advisory comes amid increasing concerns over the growing use of artificial intelligence technology to alter facial features, improve image quality and modify photographs intended for official purposes.
United States authorities have intensified efforts to discourage the use of manipulated images, particularly as immigration and border agencies increasingly rely on facial recognition technology to verify the identities of travellers.
Officials say the use of unaltered and high-quality photographs remains essential to maintaining the integrity of the visa application process and ensuring effective identity verification procedures.