United States Visa Photo
Create a US visa photo that meets all State Department and embassy requirements. Our AI checks 15+ compliance points to ensure your photo is accepted.
Photo Specifications
- ✓Size: 2x2 inches (51x51mm) — same as US passport photo
- ✓Digital: 600x600 to 1200x1200 pixels for DS-160 upload
- ✓Background: plain white or off-white
- ✓Taken within the last 6 months
- ✓No glasses allowed (since 2016)
Application Process
- 1
Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application at ceac.state.gov. You will upload your digital photo during this step.
- 2
Upload Digital Photo
Upload a JPEG photo (600x600px, ≤240KB) that meets all requirements. The system will auto-check basic compliance.
- 3
Pay Visa Fee
Pay the $185 application fee (B1/B2 visa, effective May 30, 2026). Keep the receipt for your interview.
- 4
Schedule Interview
Book an appointment at your nearest US embassy or consulate. Wait times vary by location.
- 5
Attend Interview
Bring 2 identical printed photos (2x2 inch), your passport, DS-160 confirmation, and fee receipt.
Common Rejection Reasons
- ✕Photo taken more than 6 months ago
- ✕Wearing glasses (not allowed since November 2016)
- ✕Background not plain white — patterns, shadows, or off-color
- ✕Head size outside 50-69% of image height
- ✕Digital alteration or filtering detected
- ✕Not looking directly at camera or eyes closed
Helpful Tips
- 💡Use the State Department's free Photo Tool at travel.state.gov to pre-check your photo before uploading
- 💡Even though US visa and passport photos share the same specs, your visa application requires a separate recent photo
- 💡If applying for a visa renewal within 11 months, you may qualify for interview waiver
- 💡Bring extra copies of your photo — some consulates request more than 2
Official Information
Cost
$185 (B1/B2), $205 (H/L/O/P/Q/R), $315 (K visa)
Processing: 3-5 business days (standard), 1-2 days (expedited at some posts)
Validity
B1/B2: typically 10 years. H1B: 3 years. F1: duration of status.
FAQ — United States Visa Photo
Yes, both are 2x2 inches (51x51mm) with the same white background and head size requirements. However, your visa photo must be taken within the last 6 months and cannot be the same photo used for your passport.
No. Since November 1, 2016, the State Department no longer allows glasses in visa or passport photos, except in rare cases with a signed medical statement.
JPEG format, between 600x600 and 1200x1200 pixels, file size no larger than 240KB. The photo must be in color with a white background.
Your photo must be taken within the last 6 months. If your appearance has changed significantly (weight, facial hair, surgery), you need a new photo even if the old one is recent.
Yes. Use our online tool to take and format your photo at home. Our AI automatically checks all 15+ requirements including head size, background color, and facial expression.