US visa (DS-160) photo requirements
The DS-160 asks for a square JPEG between 600 × 600 and 1200 × 1200 pixels, no more than 240 KB, with the head 50–69 % of the image’s height. Glasses stopped being allowed in new visa photos except in rare medical cases. A consulate may also ask for a printed 2 × 2 in photo at the interview.
| Size | 2 × 2 in (50.8 × 50.8 mm) |
|---|---|
| Head | 25.4–34.9 mm (1 to 1⅜ in) from the chin to the top of the head |
| Background | A plain white or off-white background |
| Glasses | Glasses aren’t allowed except in rare medical cases, with a signed statement. |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open, looking straight at the camera |
| Digital photo | 1200 × 1200 px, up to 240 KB. Square, 600 to 1200 px, 240 KB or less, for the DS-160 form. |
| Editing | “Photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered.” |
Source: travel.state.gov, travel.state.gov (2026-11-09).
Taking a US visa (DS-160) 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 1200 × 1200 px, up to 240 KB. Square, 600 to 1200 px, 240 KB or less, for the DS-160 form.
Printing US visa photos
2 fit on a 4×6 print, 6 on a 5×7, 15 on A4 and 12 on US Letter.
Questions
What size is a US visa (DS-160) photo?
2 × 2 in (50.8 × 50.8 mm), with the head 25.4–34.9 mm from the chin to the top of the head.
Can I wear glasses in a US visa (DS-160) photo?
Glasses aren’t allowed except in rare medical cases, with a signed statement.
Can I change the background?
The rules say: “Photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered.”
Other photos
- US passport 2×2 in
- US DV lottery (Green Card lottery) 600×600 px
- US Green Card (USCIS) 2×2 in
- Texas driver licence (renewing by mail) 2×2 in
- Every passport and visa photo