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US Visa Photo Specifications: Everything You Need to Know

Last Update: 23-07-2024

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Table of Contents


  1. Introduction
  2. US Visa Photo Specifications
  3. Applicants Using Form DS-160
  4. US Visa Photo Size
  5. US Visa Photo Background and Quality
  6. US Visa Photo Requirements for Attire
  7. Facial Expression Requirement for US Visa Photo
  8. US Visa Photo Requirements for Children's and Infants
  9. Applicants Using Form DS-260
  10. Conclusion
  11. FAQs

Introduction

Navigating the US visa photo specifications can be challenging, but adhering to the correct guidelines is crucial for a successful visa application. Whether you're applying for a nonimmigrant or immigrant visa, understanding the US visa photo requirements will ensure that your application process is smooth and efficient. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the US visa photo size to the correct background and attire. The American visa photo size plays a critical role in meeting the standards set by the U.S. Department of State. 

US Visa Photo Specifications

Applicants Using Form DS-160

US Visa Photo Size

  • Dimensions: The image must have a square aspect ratio (height equal to width). The minimum acceptable dimensions are 600 x 600 pixels, and the maximum acceptable dimensions are 1200 x 1200 pixels.  The passport size photo dimensions for a US visa are crucial for successful application submission.
  • Size and Position: Your US visa photo size must be exactly 2 inches by 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) with the head centred and sized between 1 inch and 1.4 inches (25 and 35 mm).
  • Resolution and Quality: The photo should be sharp without visible pixels or printer dots, printed on glossy or matte quality paper.

US visa photo sample

US Visa Photo Background and Quality

  • Colour: The image must be in colour (24 bits per pixel) in sRGB colour space, which is common for most digital cameras.
  • File Format: The image must be in JPEG file format.
  • File Size: The image must be less than or equal to 240 kB (kilobytes).
  • Compression: The image may need to be compressed to be under the maximum file size, with a compression ratio of less than or equal to 20:1.
  • Shadows and Lighting: The image must be clear, accurately reproduce skin tones, and have no shadows.
  • Background: The background must be white or off-white, plain, without texture, objects, or lines.

US Visa Photo Requirements for Attire

  • Attire and Accessories: For the American visa photo, attire should be simple and everyday wear. The full face must be visible without any shadows or clothing blocking it. Hats or head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Eyeglasses are no longer permitted in visa photos unless they cannot be removed for medical reasons.
  • Uniforms and Clothing: Uniforms, clothing resembling uniforms, and camouflage attire are not allowed, except for daily religious attire. Normal daily clothing should be worn.

Facial Expression Requirement for US Visa Photo

  • Pose and Expression: You must be directly facing the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open. Ensure the head is centred and the correct size, with the head height measuring between 1 inch and 1.4 inches (25 to 35 mm) in the American visa photo size.

US Visa Photo Requirements for Children's and Infants

  • Children's Photos: No other person should be in the photo. The child must face the camera with eyes open. For infants, it is acceptable if the eyes are not entirely open.
  • Photo Tips for Babies: Lay the baby on a plain white or off-white sheet, ensuring no shadows on the face. Alternatively, you can cover a car seat with a plain white or off-white sheet and take a picture with the baby in the car seat.

US visa photo sample for childrens and infants

Applicants Using Form DS-260

If you are applying for an immigrant visa with Form DS-260, you need to bring two identical photos to your US visa interview. Ensure that these photos are:

  • Printed on high-quality photo paper
  • 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size

Conclusion

In summary, understanding the precise US visa photo specifications is essential for a successful US visa application. From the correct US visa photo size to adhering to specific background and attire requirements, each detail plays a significant role in meeting the visa standards. The American visa photo size requirements ensure that your photo is clear and correctly proportioned. Ensuring compliance with these US visa photo requirements will help you avoid delays or rejections. Remember, the America visa passport photo size are not just formalities; they are critical to facilitating a smooth visa application process. By following this guide, you can confidently prepare your photo and proceed with your US visa application with ease.

FAQs

How many photos must I submit with my visa application?
  • Nonimmigrant Visa: Submit a digital image using the DS-160 or DS-1648 online form.
  • Immigrant Visa: Provide two (2) identical photos at your immigrant US visa appointment if applying with Form DS-260.
  • Diversity Visa Program: Submit a digital image as part of your entry and two (2) identical photos at your interview if selected.
What type of paper should I print my photos on?

Photos must be printed on photo quality paper, either matte or glossy.

Do my photos have to be in colour?

Yes, only colour photos are accepted for a US visa. Black and white photos are not allowed.

How recent must my US visa photos be?

Photos must have been taken within six months of submitting your application and reflect your current appearance.

What should be the US visa photo size in cm?

US visa photo size in cm is 5.1 x 5.1 cm. 

What pose should I be in for my US visa photo?

Your photo must be a clear, centred shot of your entire face with a neutral expression, both eyes open, and directly facing the camera. The background should be plain white or off-white.

Can I wear eyeglasses for a US visa photo?

Effective November 1, 2016, eyeglasses are not allowed in visa photos except for medical reasons. A medical statement is required if eyeglasses cannot be removed. The frames must not cover the eyes, and there must be no glare or shadows.

Can I wear sunglasses or tinted glasses in my US visa photo?

No, sunglasses or tinted glasses are not allowed.

Can I wear a hat for the photo?

Hats or head coverings that obscure the hair or hairline are not allowed unless worn for religious purposes. The full face must be visible, with no shadows.

Can I wear a uniform in my photo?

Uniforms and clothing that look like uniforms are not allowed, except for daily religious attire. Wear normal daily clothing.

Can a parent or guardian appear in the photo of a child?

No, only the child should be in the photo. Nothing used to support the child should be visible.

Is it acceptable for my child's eyes to be closed in his/her US visa photo?

No, the child's eyes must be open and looking straight at the camera.

What’s the best way to take a photo of a baby?

Lay the baby on a plain white or off-white sheet, ensuring no shadows on the face. You can also cover a car seat with a plain sheet and take a picture with the baby in the seat.

May photos be taken with a digital camera?

Yes, but ensure the digital camera meets the quality requirements. Avoid using webcams or mobile phones.

Can I remove the red-eye from my photo?

You can use the red-eye reduction option on your camera, but you cannot digitally remove red-eye or alter the photo.

Are photos copied from recent driver licences or other official documents acceptable?

No, copied or digitally scanned photos from official documents are not accepted. Photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered.

Are snapshots, magazine photos, mobile photos, or photos from vending machines acceptable?

No, these types of photos are not acceptable.

Do I need to take a new photo if I recently dyed my hair or grew a beard?

A new photo is required only if your appearance has significantly changed. Minor changes like hair colour or a beard do not necessitate a new photo.

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