US photo guides
US visa and passport photo requirements
Every US photo rule in one place: 2x2 size, head 50-69%, white background, 600x600 px, JPEG, 240 KB for visas and DS-160, 54 KB to 10 MB for passports.
DS-160 photo rejected? Here is how to fix it
Why a DS-160 or visa photo gets rejected (size, 240 KB limit, background, shadows, glasses) and exactly how to fix each problem.
USCIS photo policy: do you still need passport-style photos?
What changed in USCIS photo rules since December 2025, which forms are affected, and what to check before you mail 2x2 photos.
How to get a US visa photo under 240 KB
Make a 600x600 JPEG under 240 KB for DS-160 and DV lottery uploads: exact size, quality settings, and common mistakes.
How to take a US passport or visa photo at home
Take a photo that passes US requirements with just your phone: lighting, white wall, distance, pose and clothing tips.
US visa photo too dark? How to fix the lighting
Dark face, shadows or a dark background are common reasons US photos are rejected. Learn how to light your photo and what editing is allowed.
US passport photo head size: the 50-69% rule
The head must be 1 to 1 3/8 inches (50-69% of the photo height). See how to measure it, with pixel examples for 600x600 photos.
Can you wear glasses in a US visa or passport photo?
Glasses are generally not allowed in US visa and passport photos. Learn about the rare medical exception and how to retake the photo.
Hats and religious head coverings in US photos
Hats are not allowed in US visa and passport photos. Religious head coverings worn daily are allowed if the full face is visible.
How to take a US passport or visa photo of a baby
Lay the baby on a white sheet, avoid shadows and other people in the photo. Step-by-step tips for newborn and toddler US photos.
IPhone HEIC to JPG for US visa and passport photos
US visa photos must be JPEG. Learn how to convert iPhone HEIC photos to JPG, or let our tool convert them in your browser.
White background and shadows in US photos
Plain white or off-white background and no shadows are required. How to avoid shadows behind and on your face, and what to do if you cannot.
How to print passport photos at Walgreens, CVS or Walmart
Print your own 2x2 passport photos as one 4x6 photo at Walgreens, CVS, Walmart or Costco. Step-by-step ordering, the settings to choose, and how to cut them.