U.S. visa applicants must provide a biometric-compliant photo that meets strict technical standards set by the U.S. Department of State. The photo is a critical element of your visa application and can cause immediate rejection if it does not meet the official size, quality, and composition requirements.
This guide explains exact U.S. visa photo size specifications, approved dimensions, technical rules, common mistakes, FAQs, and compliance instructions.
What Is the Official U.S. Visa Photo Size?
The standard U.S. visa photo size required by the Department of State is:
- 2 x 2 inches (51 mm x 51 mm)
This applies to:
- Nonimmigrant visas (DS-160 / DS-1648)
- Immigrant visas (DS-260)
- Diversity Visa Program (DV) applicants
- In-person interview photo submissions
What Are the U.S. Visa Photo Dimensions in Pixels?
If you are uploading a digital image:
- 600 x 600 pixels (minimum)
- 1200 x 1200 pixels (maximum)
Digital photos must be:
- JPEG (.jpg)
- Under 240 kB
- In a square aspect ratio
What Is the Required Head Size in a U.S. Visa Photo?
This is one of the most commonly misunderstood requirements.
Your head must measure:
- Between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches (22–35 mm), or
- 50%–69% of total image height
Measurement area includes:
- Top of hair to bottom of chin
What Background Color Is Required for a U.S. Visa Photo?
Your visa photo must have:
- Plain white or off-white background
- No shadows, patterns, or texture
- No editing or digital manipulation
Can You Wear Glasses in a U.S. Visa Photo?
No.
Glasses were banned in U.S. visa photos beginning November 2016.
Exception (rare):
Glasses may be worn only with a medical certification, such as for post-ocular surgery.
Even with certification:
- Frames must not cover eyes
- No glare
- No shadows or reflections
What Should You Wear in a U.S. Visa Photo?
You may wear:
- Everyday clothing
- Religious head coverings worn daily
You may NOT wear:
- Uniforms
- Hats that obscure hairline
- Fashion headwear
- Wireless devices, headphones, earbuds
What Facial Expression Is Required?
The photo must show:
- Neutral expression
- Both eyes open
- Full face visible, directly facing the camera
Smiling, tilting, looking sideways, or digitally altering is not allowed.
What Are the Photo Requirements for Babies and Toddlers?
Special instructions apply:
- No one else may appear in the photo
- Baby must face camera with eyes open
- Use a plain white sheet behind baby
- Ensure no shadows on face
Two recommended methods:
- Place baby on a white sheet and take photo from above
- Cover car seat with white sheet and photograph child upright
What Are the Digital Image Requirements?
Digital requirements include:
- JPEG format
- Square (600 x 600 pixels)
- File size ≤ 240 kB
- Natural skin tones
- No editing or enhancement
- Correct brightness/contrast
If scanning an existing photo:
- Scan a 2 x 2 inch photo
- At 300 DPI (dots per inch)
Are There Different Requirements for Different U.S. Visa Types?
Nonimmigrant Visas (DS-160 / DS-1648)
- Upload a digital photo online
- Some consulates require one printed photo at interview
Immigrant Visas (DS-260)
- Provide two printed photos
- Must be on photo-quality paper
Diversity Visa (DV) Program
For online entry upload:
- 600 x 600 digital photo
- JPEG format
- Under 240 kB
- No older than 6 months
For interview:
- Two printed 2 x 2 inch photos
What Causes a U.S. Visa Photo to Be Rejected?
Common photo rejection reasons include:
- Wrong size (not 2 x 2 inches)
- Incorrect head size ratio
- Shadows or poor lighting
- Wearing glasses without medical exception
- Busy or dark background
- Digital alterations or filters
- Outdated appearance (older than 6 months)
- Incorrect file format or size for digital uploads
- Incorrect composition (head tilt, closed eyes)
When Should You Take Your U.S. Visa Photo?
Your photo must:
- Reflect your current appearance
- Be taken within the last 6 months
If your appearance changes significantly after taking the photo:
- You must provide a new one
Examples requiring a new photo:
- Facial surgery or trauma
- Extensive facial tattoos/piercings
- Major weight change
Where Can I Crop or Resize My U.S. Visa Photo?
Use the official U.S. Department of State Photo Tool to:
- Upload your photo
- Crop to 600 x 600 pixels
- Rotate and adjust
- Download compliant version
Read more: USA Visa Interview Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smile in a U.S. visa photo?
No. Smile lines disrupt biometric measurements.
Can I take my visa photo with a phone?
Technically yes, but it must meet all biometric requirements. Low-quality phone photos are often rejected.
Can I digitally alter pimples or marks?
No editing allowed.
Can I wear makeup?
Yes, as long as it does not alter your appearance significantly.
