A US visa photo must be square, equivalent to 2 × 2 inches, with a digital image between 600 × 600 and 1200 × 1200 pixels on a white or off-white background.
Source checked August 25, 2026| Physical size | 51 × 51 mm · 2 × 2 in |
|---|---|
| Pixels at 300 dpi | 600 × 600 px |
| Pixels at 600 dpi | 1200 × 1200 px |
| Head size | 25–35 mm (1–1⅜ in), about 50–69% of image height |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| Expression | Neutral expression, both eyes open |
| Glasses | Not allowed except for a documented medical reason |
| Smile | Use a neutral expression |
| File / print format | JPEG, square, 600–1200 px per side; file size at or below the DS-160 limit |
Small framing and lighting mistakes can decide whether a photo is accepted.
Check the issuing authority before filing. Rules can change and local application routes may add requirements.
The digital image must be square and between 600 × 600 and 1200 × 1200 pixels.
The printed dimensions and head-position rules are closely aligned at 2 × 2 inches, but the visa application has its own digital upload checks.
Use a photo taken within the last six months that reflects your current appearance.
Open Foto3x4, choose the United States preset and export at 2 × 2 in.