πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ United States

United States Visa (DS-160) Photo

2 Γ— 2 in Β· 51 Γ— 51 mm Β· 600 Γ— 600 px
Last verified: Aug 14, 2026Official source: travel.state.gov

Official requirements

Size
2 Γ— 2 in Β· 51 Γ— 51 mm
Digital
600 Γ— 600 px
Background
Plain white or off-white.
Head size
50% – 69% of the total image height.
Face position
Full face, centered, facing camera.
Expression
Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open.
Glasses
Not allowed.
Head covering
Not permitted unless worn daily for religious or medical reasons; face must be fully visible.
Image quality
Sharp focus, no blur, pixelation, filters or red-eye. Even lighting.
Digital
JPEG, square, 600Γ—600 to 1200Γ—1200 px, max 240 KB.
Print
Only required for some consulates.

Example photos

Correct
Too dark
Face too close
Face too far
Incorrect background
Tilted head

Common mistakes

  • Wrong size or head ratio

    The head must be 50% – 69% of the total image height.

  • Shadows on the background

    Stand away from the wall and face a window.

  • Glasses or glare

    Not allowed.

  • Smiling or open mouth

    Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open.

  • Low resolution

    Minimum 600 Γ— 600 px.

FAQ

United States Visa (DS-160) photo FAQ