US visa photo requirements
For nonimmigrant visas (B1/B2, F1, H1B, and others). Same 2×2 rules as a passport, plus DS-160 upload limits.
2×2 inPrint size (51×51 mm)
600–1200 pxSquare JPEG for DS-160
≤ 240 KBUpload file size limit
Photo rules (same as passport)
- Taken within the last 6 months.
- White or off-white background, no shadows, no other people.
- Face the camera directly, neutral expression, eyes open.
- No eyeglasses, hats, or head coverings (limited exceptions).
- No uniforms, headphones, or heavy filters.
DS-160 digital upload
- Square image, 600×600 to 1200×1200 pixels.
- JPEG format, color, sRGB color space.
- File size 240 KB or less.
- Head height 50–69% of image height (about 1 to 1⅜ in).
- Eye level between 56% and 69% from the bottom.
Common reasons a visa photo is rejected
Wrong size
Not square, or outside 600–1200 px. Resize, do not stretch.
Glasses
Any eyeglasses, including clear lenses, are rejected.
File too large
Over 240 KB. Re-export at lower quality or smaller dimensions.
Background
Shadows, patterns, or off-white tint behind the head.
Old photo
Taken more than 6 months ago or does not look like you now.
Head tilt
Face not straight to camera, or expression not neutral.
Printed visa photos
Some embassies ask for a printed photo at the interview. Bring two identical 2×2 prints on glossy photo paper.
Tip: Even if you upload digitally, print two 2×2 photos and bring them. See the
print guide for a 4×6 layout.
Get your visa photo right the first time
ExactPass crops to 2×2, checks head size and background, and exports a DS-160-ready JPEG.