How to change background of passport size photo in Paint
In supported versions of Microsoft Paint, remove the background, fill behind the subject, and set the final pixel size. Older Paint versions need manual cleanup; neither method approves an edited photo for passport use.
Method 1: Paint with background removal and layers
- Keep a copy of the original. Open it in an updated Windows Paint app and look for Remove background on the toolbar. Feature availability depends on your version.
- Choose Remove background. Rectangle select can restrict removal to an area. Inspect the transparent result for missing hair or leftover pixels.
- If Layers is available, add a layer below the subject. Select white or the required color and use Fill with color on that background layer.
- Crop the canvas to the required ratio. In Resize, choose Pixels; use 600x600 for a 2x2 inch image intended to print at 300 pixels per inch. Check head position separately.
- Save a PNG to preserve edges, then save a JPG copy if your application requests it. Review both files and keep the original unedited photo.
Source: Microsoft: Paint features.
Method 2: Older Paint without automatic removal
Classic Paint does not provide a dedicated hair-refinement mask. Free-form selection and Transparent selection are not an automatic subject cutout. Manual cleanup can leave jagged edges and takes longer on a busy backdrop.
- Open a copy and zoom in. Choose white or the required background color.
- Use the eraser or a small brush to replace the backdrop around the outline. Work carefully around hair, ears, and shoulders.
- Fill remaining enclosed background areas only after checking that the fill cannot spill into the face or clothing.
- Crop and resize to the target pixels. Inspect at actual size and save a separate file. Retake the photo if edge cleanup damages details.
Paint 3D Magic Select on an existing installation
Microsoft has deprecated Paint 3D and removed it from Microsoft Store. Existing installations can continue to work, but do not rely on being able to download it. Magic Select is a Paint 3D feature, not the classic Paint selection tool.
- If Paint 3D is already installed, open a copy of the photo and choose Magic select. Adjust the box around the person and choose Next.
- Use Add and Remove to refine the selection, then choose Done. Separate the selected person from the original background.
- Place the cutout over a plain background, inspect the outline, and export a separate image at the needed dimensions.
Source: Microsoft: deprecated features.
The SnapPass AI online method
Use the hub’s online tool to combine AI editing, background selection, sizing, and preview. Real uploads take processing time. The instant demo is preprocessed. AI can also edit clothing and appearance, so this is not suitable where unaltered photos are required.
- Upload a clear photo with your face fully visible. A phone photo works if it is sharp and evenly lit.
- Choose a plain background and the document size. Review hair edges and the crop in the preview.
- Download PNG and JPG files. Check the issuing authority’s editing, file size, and background rules before submission.
Paint versus SnapPass AI
| Task | Paint | SnapPass AI |
|---|---|---|
| Background removal | Automatic in supported versions; manual in older ones. | AI subject removal after upload. |
| Hair edges | Manual inspection; limited refinement. | Inspect AI edges for missing strands and halos. |
| Sizing | Crop and enter pixel dimensions manually. | Choose a document preset. |
| Time | Varies with manual cleanup and app version. | Upload and AI processing; varies with connection. |
| Cost and setup | Installed Windows app; features depend on version. | Browser tool, basic images free; premium exports paid. |
| US passport editing | Digital background changes are not permitted. | AI background and clothing changes are not permitted. |
Check your document requirements
Check the official rules for your country before submission. Read our US passport photo requirements, UK passport photo guide, and visa photo guidance for related sizes and background information.
Microsoft Paint guide FAQ
- Why is Remove background missing in Paint?
- Your version may not support it. Update Paint through Microsoft Store where available, or use manual cleanup. Do not confuse classic Paint with Paint 3D.
- Does Transparent selection remove the background?
- It is not an automatic subject or hair mask. Check the pasted result carefully; it will not reliably isolate a person from a complex backdrop.
- Can I still use Paint 3D Magic Select?
- An existing Paint 3D installation may still work. Microsoft has deprecated the app and removed it from Microsoft Store.
- What pixels should I use for a 2x2 inch print?
- Use 600x600 pixels for 300 pixels per inch. Print at exactly 2x2 inches and check all head-size requirements.
- Will an edited background be accepted?
- Acceptance is not guaranteed. The US Department of State asks for an original, unedited photo and says not to change it with software, filters, or AI. Take a new photo against a real white or off-white background for a US passport. Other documents have their own rules.