DS-160 Photo Requirements
The DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (used for B-1/B-2 tourist/business visas, F-1 student visas, J-1 exchange visas, H-1B work visas, and most other nonimmigrant visa categories) requires a digital photo upload during the online application process.
| DS-160 Photo Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Format | JPEG (.jpg) |
| Minimum size | 600×600 pixels |
| Maximum size | No stated maximum — aim for 1200×1200 |
| File size | 240 KB to 10 MB |
| Aspect ratio | Square (1:1) |
| Photo dimensions at print size | 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) |
| Background | White or off-white plain background |
All other standard rules apply: neutral expression, no glasses, head size 1–1⅜ inches, taken within 6 months.
DS-160 and DS-260 ready. State Department compliant.
Create your compliant US visa photo →What Is a US Visa Photo Used For?
A U.S. visa photo is required for:
- DS-160: Nonimmigrant visa application (tourist, student, work, exchange visas)
- DS-260: Immigrant visa application (green card via consular processing)
- USCIS Form I-485: Green card adjustment of status (2 photos for most packages)
- USCIS Form I-90: Green card renewal (2 photos for some packages)
- USCIS Form I-131: Travel document (advance parole)
- US visa renewals at US embassies and consulates abroad
For USCIS paper forms (I-485, I-90, I-131, etc.), you typically submit two printed 2×2 inch photos clipped or otherwise attached to the form package. Do not staple photos to USCIS forms — use a paper clip.
Visa Photo vs Passport Photo: Same Requirements
US visa photos and US passport photos have identical technical requirements:
| Requirement | US Passport Photo | US Visa Photo (DS-160/USCIS) |
|---|---|---|
| Size (print) | 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) | 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) |
| Size (digital) | Min 600×600 px JPEG | Min 600×600 px JPEG |
| Background | White or off-white | White or off-white |
| Head size | 1–1⅜ inches chin to crown | 1–1⅜ inches chin to crown |
| Expression | Neutral | Neutral |
| Glasses | Not permitted | Not permitted |
| Recency | Within 6 months | Within 6 months |
The same photo can be used for both a passport application and a visa application if it meets all requirements. However, given the 6-month recency rule, ensure the photo is recent enough for both applications.
Where to Get a US Visa Photo
Since visa photos have identical requirements to passport photos, all the same services apply: CVS ($16.99), Walgreens ($17.99), Costco ($7.99), FedEx Office ($14.99), and online AI services ($9.99–$14.99).
For DS-160 digital upload specifically, an online AI service produces the correct JPEG in the right format and dimensions — eliminating the need to visit a store for a photo you're going to upload digitally anyway.
For USCIS paper forms, you need printed photos — professional services at CVS, Walgreens, or similar are the most reliable.
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Frequently Asked Questions
2×2 inches (51×51 mm) — the same size as a US passport photo. For DS-160 digital upload: minimum 600×600 pixels, JPEG format.
Yes, if taken within the last 6 months and meeting all requirements. The technical specifications are identical.
No. Use a paper clip. Stapling damages the photos and is not accepted.
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