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United States Visa Photo Size & Requirements
United States visa photo requirements follow ICAO biometric standards but are enforced by U.S. Department of State (Bureau of Consular Affairs). In this guide, you can confirm the exact 51×51 mm size, 602×602 pixel output at 300 DPI, the required white background, and the fastest way to prepare a compliant image before submitting your United States visa application. A key local rule to remember is: Glasses of any kind have been banned since November 2016 — even prescription frames will trigger automatic rejection.
Use ImageGates to resize your image to exactly 51×51 mm (602×602 px) with a white background. This guide also covers where applicants usually submit their documents, which local rules cause the most rejections, and which related country pages to compare before you apply.
Official United States visa photo rules
- Glasses of any kind have been banned since November 2016 — even prescription frames will trigger automatic rejection.
- Photos must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) on matte or glossy photo-quality paper, not standard inkjet paper.
- For DV Lottery and DS-160, the digital file must be exactly 600×600 pixels under 240 KB.
Common mistakes in United States visa photos
- Submitting a 35×45 mm European-style print instead of the U.S. 2×2 inch square.
- Wearing prescription glasses — accepted everywhere else, banned in the U.S.
- Uploading a JPEG larger than 240 KB to the DS-160 portal.
Visa vs passport photo differences in United States
The visa photo in United States is 51×51 mm, while the passport photo is 51×51 mm. The size is the same for both documents, but you should still verify the specific submission rules for the passport application. You can also compare the alternate document on the dedicated United States passport photo page.
Popular countries
CanadaUnited KingdomIndiaSchengen Zone
Related countries
Canada (35×45 mm)Mexico (35×45 mm)United Kingdom (35×45 mm)
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in a U.S. passport photo?
No. Since November 1, 2016, the U.S. State Department prohibits glasses in passport photos with very narrow medical exceptions that require a signed doctor's note. Remove all eyewear before taking the picture.
Where do I submit my U.S. passport photo?
First-time adult applicants submit Form DS-11 with a printed 2×2 inch photo at any USPS Passport Acceptance Facility. Renewals (Form DS-82) can be mailed in or, for eligible adults, completed online with a digital upload.
What is the official visa photo size for United States?
The official United States visa photo size is 51×51 mm, which equals 602×602 pixels at 300 DPI.
What background is required for a United States visa photo?
United States visa photos require a white background with even lighting, no patterns, and no visible shadows.