Create Your United States Photo in 3 Seconds
Upload any smartphone snapshot. Our AI instantly aligns your face to 50.8 x 50.8 mm (51 x 51 mm), removes shadows, and provides a 300 DPI 4x6 print template.
Official Technical Specifications
Accepted by CEAC DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application Portal.
| Specification Parameter | Official Requirement |
|---|---|
| Physical Dimensions (mm) | 50.8 x 50.8 mm (51 x 51 mm) |
| Physical Dimensions (Inches) | 2.0 x 2.0 inches (Square 1:1) |
| Digital Pixel Resolution | 600 x 600 px (Min) / 1200 x 1200 px (@ 600 DPI) |
| Aspect Ratio | 1:1 (Square) |
| Chin-to-Crown Ratio (Head Size) | 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches (25 mm – 35 mm / 50% – 69%) |
| Eye Level Position | Between 1 1/8 inches and 1 3/8 inches (56% – 69%) from bottom |
| Permitted Background Color | Plain Solid White or Off-White (#FFFFFF) |
| Digital File Size Limits | Under 240 KB (JPEG format) |
Common United States Rejection Traps
Eyeglasses of Any Kind
Under US State Dept regulations since 2016, eyeglasses are strictly banned in all US visa and passport photos without exception.
Head Size Outside 50% – 69% Range
The distance from bottom of chin to top of hair must be between 50% and 69% of the frame height. DS-160 auto-screener fails photos outside this boundary.
Non-Square Aspect Ratio
Uploading a rectangular 35x45mm or 4x6 photo fails the CEAC validator. The file must be an exact 1:1 square (min 600x600 px).
Digital Filters or Blurring
Using beauty filters, airbrushing, or smoothing tools invalidates the biometric skin texture and triggers instant consular rejection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the exact dimensions for a DS-160 US Visa photo?
A US DS-160 visa photo must be square (1:1), measuring 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm). Digitally, it must be at least 600 x 600 pixels up to 1200 x 1200 pixels at 300 DPI, under 240 KB.
Can I wear religious headwear in my US visa photo?
Yes, religious head coverings are permitted if you submit a signed statement confirming religious wear. However, the entire face from hairline to bottom of chin must be clearly visible.
What background color is required for US DS-160 visa photos?
The background must be plain white or off-white with no shadows, texture, furniture, or patterns.
Can I take a DS-160 photo at home?
Yes! Use your phone in front of a well-lit wall. PassPhotoMaker automatically centers your eyes and crops to exact 2x2" 600 DPI specifications.