Photograph Requirements for U.S. Visas

Photograph is a vital part of your visa application. Please review the information below on how to provide a suitable photo. The acceptance of your photo is at the discretion of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you apply.

We recommend you use a professional photo service to ensure your photo meets all the following requirements:

1. In color (natural, do not alter or photo-shop it)

2. Size 2 x 2 inches (50 mm square). The head is between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm) or 50% and 69% of the image's total height from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.

3. Taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance

4. Taken in front of a plain white or off-white background, no shadow and no border or frame.

5. Taken in full-face view directly facing the camera with both eyes open and showing both ears

6. Taken in clothing that you normally wear on a daily basis

• Uniforms should not be worn in your photo, except religious clothing that is worn daily.
• Do not wear a hat or head covering that obscures the hair or hairline, unless worn daily for a religious purpose. Your full face must be visible, and the head covering must not cast any shadows on your face.
• Headphones, wireless hands-free devices, or similar items are not acceptable in your photo.
• If you normally wear glasses (without tinted lenses), a hearing device, or similar articles, they may be worn in your photo.
• Dark glasses or glasses with tinted lenses are not acceptable.
• Glare on glasses is not acceptable in your photo. Glare can be avoided with a slight downward tilt of the glasses or by removing the glasses or by turning off the camera flash.