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Photo Requirements for IV

Photo Requirements for IV Visa Processing

Photo Requirements

All applicants for American immigrant visas must present two (2) full-face, color photographs, taken against a white or off-white background, showing the entire, uncovered head with the application.  An additional five (5) photographs are required for the medical exam.  Applicants who wear a head covering or hat for religious reasons may continue to do so, but only if that head covering does not obscure any portion of the face.

  • Make sure the photo presents the full head from the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin
  • Center the head with the frame
  • The person in the photo should have a neutral expression and be facing the camera

Paper Photo Head Size Template (See picture attached)

  • Photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches or 5cm by 5cm
  • The height of the head (top of hair to bottom of chin) should measure 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches (25 mm - 35 mm)
  • Make sure the eye height is between 1 1/8 inches to 1 3/8 inches (28 mm - 35 mm) from the bottom of the photo

It is particularly important that the photo be recent, taken within the past six months, and clearly in focus. It is vital that the background be white or off-white. Photos taken in front of busy, multi-colored, patterned, or dark backgrounds will not be accepted.

For additional information please click here.