US DV lottery (Green Card lottery) photo requirements
Every person on the entry, children included, needs their own photo (except a spouse or child who is already a US citizen or permanent resident), and a photo that breaks the rules can make the entry ineligible. The instructions ask for exactly 600 × 600 pixels, colour, 240 KB or less, with the head 50–69 % of the height, and the same standards as US visa photos.
| Size | 2 × 2 in (50.8 × 50.8 mm) in shape (uploaded, not printed) |
|---|---|
| Head | 50–69 % of the photo’s height (25.4–35.1 mm), chin to the top of the head |
| Background | A plain white or off-white background |
| Glasses | Not allowed. |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open, looking straight at the camera |
| Digital photo | 600 × 600 px, up to 240 KB. The entry form wants exactly 600 × 600 px, 240 KB or less. Everyone on the entry needs their own. |
| Editing | “Photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered.” |
Source: travel.state.gov (2026-11-09).
Taking a US DV lottery (Green Card lottery) photo
Stand in front of a plain white or off-white background. Take your glasses off. Keep a neutral face with your mouth closed. For the online form the app saves 600 × 600 px, up to 240 KB. The entry form wants exactly 600 × 600 px, 240 KB or less. Everyone on the entry needs their own.
Questions
What size is the US DV lottery (Green Card lottery) photo?
600 × 600 pixels, 240 KB or less, as a JPG.
Can I wear glasses in a US DV lottery (Green Card lottery) photo?
Not allowed.
Can I change the background?
The rules say: “Photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered.”
Other photos
- US passport 2×2 in
- US visa (DS-160) 2×2 in
- US Green Card (USCIS) 2×2 in
- Texas driver licence (renewing by mail) 2×2 in
- Every passport and visa photo