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US visa photo size and requirements

A US visa photo (DS-160) is a square image 600×600 to 1200×1200 px, JPEG under 240 KB, head 50-69% of the frame, on a white background.

Official requirements

United States visa (ds-160) photo at a glance

Photo size
2 x 2 in (51 x 51 mm) / 600×600-1200×1200 px digital
Head size
Head 50-69% of frame; eyes 56-69% from the bottom
Background
Plain white or off-white
Digital file
Square, 600×600 to 1200×1200 px, JPEG, ≤240 KB
Recency
Taken within the last 6 months
Prints per sheet
2

Source: U.S. Department of State, Visa Photos, verified by OnePassPhoto.

US visa photo: common questions

What size is a US visa photo?

A US visa photo (DS-160) is a square image 600×600 to 1200×1200 px, JPEG under 240 KB, head 50-69% of the frame, on a white background.

Can I take a United States visa (ds-160) photo at home?

Yes. Take a clear, front-facing photo against a plain wall in even light. We check it against the official rules and tell you right away whether it passes.

Can I smile in my US visa photo?

No. United States asks for a neutral expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open, looking straight at the camera.

What background does a US visa photo need?

Plain white or off-white. Our engine sets a compliant background for you.