H1B Visa Photo Specifications
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size (print) | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) |
| Pixel dimensions (DS-160) | 600 × 600 to 1200 × 1200 pixels |
| File format (digital) | JPEG (.jpg) |
| File size (digital) | 54 KB to 10 MB |
| Head height | 1 to 1-3/8 inches (25–35 mm) |
| Eye height from bottom | 1-1/8 to 1-3/8 inches (28–35 mm) |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Recency | Within 6 months |
When Do You Need Photos for H1B?
1. H1B Petition (Form I-129)
Your employer files Form I-129 with USCIS. This requires 2 printed passport-style photos of the beneficiary (you). Photos must be:
- 2×2 inches, white background
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Attached to Form I-129 with your name and A-number (if any) written on the back
2. H1B Visa Stamping (Embassy/Consulate)
When you go for visa stamping at a US embassy or consulate, you need:
- Digital photo uploaded to DS-160 (600×600px JPEG)
- 2 printed photos (2×2 inches) to bring to the interview
- Photos must be recent — taken within 6 months
3. H1B Extension or Transfer
For H1B extensions (Form I-129) and employer transfers, you need 2 new photos. Even if your appearance hasn't changed, USCIS requires recent photos.
4. H1B to Green Card (I-485)
If you're adjusting status from H1B to permanent resident, Form I-485 requires 2 photos. See our Green Card photo guide for details.
DS-160 Photo Upload for H1B Stamping
- Take your photo following the specs above
- Upload to WithSwag and select "US Passport/Visa" size
- Download the 600×600px JPEG version
- On the DS-160 form, navigate to the photo upload section
- Upload your file — the system validates dimensions automatically
- Green checkmark = photo accepted
Photo Requirements in Detail
Face and Expression
Face clearly visible and centered in the frame. Neutral expression with both eyes open and mouth closed. Both ears visible. Full head from top of hair to chin.
Background
Plain white or off-white. No patterns, shadows, or other objects. Stand about 4 feet from a white wall with even lighting to avoid shadows.
Glasses
No glasses of any kind since November 2016. Remove all eyeglasses before taking the photo.
Clothing
Normal business or casual clothing. Avoid white shirts that blend with the background. No uniforms. No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions apply with full face visible).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using an old photo — Must be within 6 months, even for extensions
- Wrong DS-160 file size — Must be 54KB–10MB JPEG
- Shadows on background — Stand away from the wall
- Wearing glasses — Not allowed since 2016
- Selfie with wrong dimensions — Must be square (2×2 or 600×600)
- Photo printed on regular paper — Use glossy photo paper
- Writing on the front — Write name/A-number on the back only
How to Take Your H1B Photo at Home
- Find a white wall with good natural lighting
- Stand 4 feet from the wall
- Have someone take the photo at eye level (or use a tripod)
- Use your phone's rear camera for best quality
- Take several shots, pick the best one
- Upload to WithSwag — select US Passport/Visa size
- Download both digital (for DS-160) and print versions
- Print 2 copies on glossy 4×6 photo paper
Cost Comparison
| Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| CVS / Walgreens | $16.99 |
| USPS | $15.00 |
| Costco | $5.99 |
| WithSwag (at home) | €3.00 (~$3.25) |
Create Your H1B Visa Photo Now
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