Upload a photo
Use a recent, well-lit picture. We guide pose and framing to match US visa photo requirements.
US visa photo online
Filling out the DS-160 or preparing for an interview? Create a compliant US visa photo (2×2 inches) in minutes. Our in-browser AI sets a plain white/off-white background, enforces head size and eye level, and exports digital and print-ready files.
How to make a US visa photo that gets accepted
Upload any clear portrait from your phone. Our editor applies the 2×2 in (51×51 mm) crop, checks head height and eye position, and cleans the background to the required light tone.
AI formatting
Automatic crop to 2×2 inches, square canvas, plain white/off-white background, and head size validation.
Compliance check
We flag common issues (glare, shadows, tilt, covered eyes) before you submit your photo with the DS-160 or at the interview.
US visa photo basics (quick guide)
Camera & angle
Keep the camera at eye level, straight-on. Face the lens, shoulders square, no profile or tilt.
Expression & eyes
Neutral expression (or a natural, slight smile). Eyes open and clearly visible. No glasses unless medically required with documentation.
Light & background
Use soft, even lighting. Stand in front of a plain white or off-white background — no patterns, shadows, or color casts.
What to avoid in a US visa photo
Headwear & uniforms
No hats or uniforms (religious/medical coverings allowed if the full face is visible and no shadows fall on it).
Glare & shadows
Avoid harsh flash, deep shadows, or tinted color casts. Keep eyebrows, eye line, and facial outline clear.
Obstructed face
No sunglasses, heavy retouching, or hair over the eyes. Your photo must look like you do now.
Why make your US visa photo with us?
Fast and accurate
AI enforces 2×2 in size, square aspect, white/off-white background, and head-size/eye-height rules.
Download both a digital image for online submission and a printable sheet for interviews.
Built for acceptance
Compliance checks reduce rejection risk for nonimmigrant visas (DS-160), immigrant visas (DS-260), and the DV Lottery.
Also need passport photos online? Switch presets and export in a click.
A US visa photo is a 2×2 inch, square, color headshot on a plain white or off-white background. For the DS-160, you typically upload a digital image; some posts may also ask you to bring a print to the interview. Immigrant visa applicants usually bring printed photos. The DV Program requires a digital upload during entry.
US visa photo requirements — quick checklist
- Size (print): exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).
- Head height: between 1″ and 1⅜″ (25–35 mm) from chin to crown; eye height roughly 1⅛″–1⅜″ (28–35 mm) from the bottom of the photo.
- Digital upload (typical for DS-160/DV): square JPEG, 600×600–1200×1200 px, sRGB, file size ≤ 240 kB.
- Background: plain white or off-white; no shadows or gradients.
- Look: color photo, neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses (rare medical exceptions with documentation).
Nonimmigrant vs. immigrant vs. DV — what to prepare
- DS-160 (nonimmigrant): upload a digital image that meets pixel and file-size rules; some consulates may also ask for one printed 2×2.
- DS-260 (immigrant): bring two identical printed 2×2 in photos to the interview.
- DV Lottery: during entry, upload a square JPEG 600×600 px, ≤240 kB.
Pro tips for a perfect US visa photo
- Use window light for soft, even illumination; avoid overhead shadows.
- Wear everyday clothing that contrasts slightly with the white background.
- Tie back hair; keep eyebrows/eyes fully visible with no glare.
Ready to start?
Click “Choose document”. Upload a snapshot and download a compliant US visa photo online — formatted, checked, and ready to submit.