Why is document clarity critical?
The quality of your identification document directly determines the success and speed of your ITIN application.
As an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), our core responsibility is to verify the authenticity and validity of every client's passport on behalf of the IRS. Essentially, we are the first "checkpoint" before your application reaches the IRS system.
If the passport image provided is blurry, has glare, is obstructed, or is incomplete, we cannot sign the Certificate of Accuracy (W-7 COA), and your application cannot be submitted. Providing a high-quality, clear passport image is the key to getting your ITIN application approved on the first try.
🌍 Note on Passport Versions Regardless of your nationality (UK, Canada, China, EU, etc.), the IRS requirements for the Biographical Page (Bio Page) are universal. The image must be legible, complete, and free of obstructions.
Option 1: Use a Scanner (⭐ Highly Recommended)
This is the most secure method with the highest success rate.
Equipment: Please use a Color scanner.
Format: Save as a PDF or high-resolution JPG.
⚠️ Critical Requirements:
Completeness: Ensure the scan includes all 4 corners of the passport page. Do not cut off the edges.
No Black Borders: Try to crop unnecessary background, but keep the document whole.
True Color: It must be a color scan (no black & white or grayscale).
Option 2: Taking a Photo with Your Phone (✅ Guidelines)
If you do not have a scanner and must use a smartphone, please strictly follow these 4 Golden Rules. Failure to meet these standards may result in a request for a reshoot.
📷 Core Principle: Focus & Integrity Tap your screen to focus on the text. Ensure that when zoomed in, every letter is sharp and defined.
1. Lay it Flat
Place the passport flat on a table.
Do NOT hold the passport in mid-air; this causes shaking and focus issues.
Remove any covers/cases. We need to see the original document.
2. No Fingers (Crucial!)
This is the most common mistake.
Strictly NO fingers covering any information (photo, name, numbers, barcodes).
Keep fingers out of the frame completely. If the page curls, use a heavy object to weigh down the blank edge, or gently press the very corner where there is no text.
3. No Glare
Passport bio pages often have holographic films that reflect light.
Use natural light (e.g., near a window) but avoid direct sunlight.
Turn OFF your flash.
Adjust your angle slightly to ensure no white spots (glare) cover your face, name, or passport number.
4. Check for Legibility
After taking the photo, zoom in on your phone screen to check. The following fields must be readable:
Passport Number: Usually top right.
Full Name: Must be sharp.
Date of Birth & Expiration Date.
MRZ Code: The two long lines of code at the very bottom (
<<<<<). These contain vital data and must be fully visible.
❌ Common Rejection Reasons (Please Avoid!)
To save time, please double-check your image against these common errors before sending:
1. Incomplete / Cut-off (Most Common)
The Error: Only scanning the center, missing the four corners, or cutting off the MRZ code at the bottom.
The Fix: Pull the camera back slightly. We need to see the entire page, from edge to edge.
2. Skewed Angle
The Error: Taking the photo from the side, making the document look like a trapezoid.
The Fix: Hold your phone directly parallel to the table (bird's-eye view).
3. Finger Obstruction
The Error: A thumb covering part of the name or a digit of the passport number.
The Fix: Use a paperweight or press down on a non-text area.
4. Glare or Blur
The Error: Flash reflection hiding the date of birth, or shaky text.
The Fix: Turn off flash, use steady hands, and check focus.
[Insert Example Image Here: Left side showing a "✅ Perfect, Flat, Full-Page Photo" vs. Right side showing "❌ Common Mistakes"]
Summary
Clear, Complete, No Fingers = Fast Approval.
We enforce strict quality control to prevent your application from being rejected by the IRS. Thank you for your cooperation. Please prepare your passport file according to these standards and send it to us.