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United States Visa (DS-160 / DV digital photo) requirements

United States visa (ds-160 / dv digital photo): 600 × 600 px, white background, head 50–69% of the height, up to 240 KB, taken within 6 months. Source: U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, verified 2026-09-14.

United States

Visa (DS-160 / DV digital photo)

From an official source

Print size
50.8 × 50.8 mm (2 × 2 in)
Pixels
600 × 600 px
Digital file
min 600 × 600 px · max 1200 × 1200 px · ≤ 240 KB · JPEG · aspect 1:1
Background
white, off-white
Head height
50–69% of photo height
Eye line
56–69% from the bottom edge
Photo age
Taken within the last 6 month(s)
  • JPEG, square (height = width), minimum 600 × 600 px, maximum 1200 × 1200 px, file size ≤ 240 kB.
  • Head 1–1 3/8 in (22–35 mm) or 50–69 % of the image height from chin to top of head; eyes 56–69 % from the bottom.
  • Colour, plain white or off-white background, taken within 6 months; eyeglasses not allowed except for rare medical cases.

Photo Requirements — U.S. VisasU.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs · last verified 2026-09-14

DocPixEdit provides technical guidance and automated checks based on the requirements and sources listed on this page. Requirements can change, and final acceptance is determined by the relevant authority. Always verify current requirements before submission.

How to prepare this photo

  1. Take or choose a recent, sharp, colour photo facing the camera with a neutral expression and even lighting.
  2. Open it in DocPixEdit with this standard selected — the crop frame is locked to 50.8 × 50.8 mm (2 × 2 in) — 600 × 600 px.
  3. Check the background is plain and matches what the authority allows (white / off-white); use the background tool if needed.
  4. Adjust zoom so the head (chin to crown) fills roughly 50–69% of the photo height, centred and level.
  5. Download the file (JPG for online forms, or a print sheet for paper) and double-check the rules on the official page before you submit.

General photo tips

  • Face the camera directly; keep both ears and the full outline of the face visible.
  • Use even, shadow-free lighting — daylight from a window in front of you works well.
  • Start from a high-resolution original; small or heavily compressed images look blurry when resized.
  • No filters, retouching or beauty effects — authorities reject altered photos.
  • Follow the authority's own rules for glasses, head coverings and expression.

These are general tips, not rules of any government. Always follow the official guidance linked above.

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