B1/B2 Visa Photo Specifications
| Specification | Print (Embassy) | Digital (DS-160) |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) | 600 × 600 to 1200 × 1200 px |
| Format | Glossy photo paper | JPEG (.jpg) |
| File size | — | 54 KB to 10 MB |
| Background | White or off-white | White or off-white |
| Head height | 1 to 1-3/8 inches (25–35 mm) — 50–69% of image | |
| Glasses | Not allowed | |
| Recency | Within 6 months | |
| Quantity | 2 prints | 1 upload |
B1 vs B2 — Same Photo Requirements
B1 (business visitor) and B2 (tourist) visas use identical photo specifications. The combined B1/B2 visa — which is what most applicants receive — also uses the same photo. No difference at all.
What You Need for Your Application
Step 1: DS-160 Online Form
When filling out the DS-160 form online, you'll need to upload a digital photo:
- 600×600 to 1200×1200 pixels
- JPEG format, 54KB–10MB
- White background, no shadows
- The system validates your photo automatically
Step 2: Embassy/Consulate Interview
Bring 2 printed photos to your visa interview:
- 2×2 inches on glossy photo paper
- Same photo as your DS-160 upload
- Some embassies only ask for 1 photo, but bring 2 to be safe
Photo Requirements in Detail
Face and Expression
Face clearly visible and centered. Neutral expression — no smiling, no frowning. Both eyes open, mouth closed. Full head visible from top of hair to chin. Both ears should be visible.
Background
Plain white or off-white. No patterns, textures, or shadows. If taking at home, stand 4 feet from a white wall with even lighting.
Glasses
No glasses allowed since November 2016. Remove all eyeglasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses.
Clothing
Normal clothes. Avoid white tops that blend with the background. No uniforms (except religious). No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions apply).
Common B1/B2 Photo Mistakes
- Selfie with wrong aspect ratio — Must be perfectly square
- Phone photo in HEIC format — DS-160 needs JPEG only
- File too large — iPhone photos can exceed 10MB; resize first
- Shadow behind head — Stand away from the wall
- Wearing glasses — Not allowed since 2016
- Smiling — Must be neutral expression
- Photo older than 6 months — Must be recent
How to Take Your B1/B2 Photo at Home
- Find a white wall with good natural light (near a window, no direct sunlight)
- Stand about 4 feet from the wall to avoid shadows
- Have someone take the photo at eye level
- Use your phone's rear camera for best resolution
- Take multiple shots and pick the best one
- Upload to WithSwag — select US Passport/Visa size
- Download digital (DS-160) and print versions
- Print 2 copies at CVS, Walgreens, or at home on glossy paper
Cost Comparison
| Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| CVS / Walgreens photo service | $16.99 |
| USPS | $15.00 |
| Photo studio near embassy | $10–$25 |
| WithSwag (at home) | €3.00 (~$3.25) |
Create Your B1/B2 Visa Photo Now
DS-160 ready + print-ready. White background, correct dimensions. Done in 2 minutes from your phone.
Make My Visa Photo →