US Visa Photo Specifications
For Print (Embassy Interview)
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) |
| Head height | 1 inch 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 |
| Resolution | Minimum 300 DPI |
| Photos needed | 2 identical prints |
For DS-160 Online Upload
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Pixel dimensions | 600 × 600 to 1200 × 1200 pixels |
| File format | JPEG (.jpg) |
| File size | 54 KB to 10 MB |
| Color space | sRGB (24-bit color) |
| Background | Plain white |
| Recency | Within 6 months |
Official Source: U.S. Department of State — Visa Photo Requirements
Requirements by Visa Type
All US visa types use the same photo specifications. Here's a quick reference:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Photo Specs |
|---|---|---|
| B1/B2 | Business/Tourist | 2×2 inch, white background |
| H1B | Specialty Worker | 2×2 inch, white background |
| F1 | Student | 2×2 inch, white background |
| J1 | Exchange Visitor | 2×2 inch, white background |
| K1 | Fiancé(e) | 2×2 inch, white background |
| L1 | Intracompany Transfer | 2×2 inch, white background |
| O1 | Extraordinary Ability | 2×2 inch, white background |
| E2 | Treaty Investor | 2×2 inch, white background |
Tip: The same photo works for your DS-160 form, embassy interview, and any USCIS forms. Take one good photo and use it everywhere.
DS-160 Photo Upload — Step by Step
- Take your photo following the requirements above
- Upload to WithSwag and select "US Passport/Visa" size
- Download the digital version (600×600px JPEG)
- On the DS-160 form, click "Upload Photo"
- Select your file — the system will verify dimensions automatically
- If it passes, you'll see a green checkmark
Common DS-160 Upload Error: "Photo does not meet requirements." This usually means the file is too small (under 600×600px), too large (over 10MB), or not in JPEG format. WithSwag exports at exactly the right specs.
Photo Requirements in Detail
Face and Expression
Face clearly visible and centered. Neutral expression, 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, shadows, or other people. Stand 4 feet from a white wall with even lighting.
Glasses
No glasses of any kind since November 2016. This applies to all US visa types.
What to Wear
Normal street clothes. Avoid white clothing that blends with the background. No uniforms (except religious). No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions apply).
Common Rejection Reasons
- Wrong pixel dimensions — Must be 600×600 to 1200×1200 for DS-160
- Wrong file format — Must be JPEG, not PNG or HEIC
- File too large or small — Must be 54KB to 10MB
- Shadows — On face or background
- Glasses — Not allowed
- Non-white background — Must be white
- Photo too old — Must be within 6 months
- Head size wrong — Must be 50–69% of image height
Cost Comparison
| Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| CVS/Walgreens | $16.99 |
| USPS | $15.00 |
| Photo studio | $10–$25 |
| WithSwag (at home) | €3.00 (~$3.25) |
Create Your US Visa Photo Now
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