Hearing Aids in Passport Photos: Guidelines and Suggestions

Wearing a hearing aid in a passport photo is allowed, ensuring it represents your regular appearance without reflections or obstructions.

Hearing Aids in Passport Photos: Rules and Varieties

A hearing aid, also referred to as a hearing device, is a small electronic device worn in the ears to assist individuals with hearing loss in better perceiving sound.

A hearing aid is generally considered necessary when the average hearing loss in one or both ears exceeds 35 dB.

Types of Hearing Aids

There are several types of hearing aids:

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid: This type of hearing aid is worn behind the ear. Sound is directed from the device to the earmold in the ear via a tube. This is the most commonly sold type of hearing aid.
Receiver-in-the-ear (RIE) hearing aid: The main part of this hearing aid is worn behind the ear, and a tiny speaker is placed in the ear. Sound is electrically transmitted to the ear via a wire.
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid: All components of this type of hearing aid are housed in a device that is placed in the ear. It is suitable for mild hearing loss.
In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid: This type of hearing aid fits deeper into the ear and is suitable for moderate and mild hearing loss.
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aid: This type of hearing aid is placed deep in the ear canal and is not visible from the outside. It can be removed using a transparent cord.
Body-worn hearing aid: This type of hearing aid is rarely used and is suitable for individuals with motor difficulties. It consists of a box-like device that resembles a small mobile phone. Sound is transmitted to an earmold via a cord.
Hearing glasses: Hearing glasses are suitable for individuals with visual impairments. Microphones are integrated into the temples of the glasses, allowing for better sound reception in a room.

Rules for Wearing a Hearing Device in Passport Photos

When it comes to passport photos, the rules do not specifically mention wearing hearing aids or devices. However, it is important to ensure that your passport photo reflects your everyday appearance, which may include wearing your hearing aids if you use them regularly.

Additionally, it is crucial to avoid any reflections from the hearing aids that could affect the quality of the passport photo.