🇺🇸 United States visa photo requirements
51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 in), head 25–35 mm chin to crown, Plain white or off-white background — and the details that get photographs bounced before an officer ever opens the file.
Check my photo freeThe United States specification
Photo size
51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 in)
Head height
25–35 mm chin to crown
Background
Plain white or off-white
- Head must be centred
- No glasses at all
- Taken within the last 6 months
Last reviewed 12/08/2026 · Source: US Department of State. Confirm against the official United States guidance before printing.
Routes this specification covers
United States applies one biometric photo standard across its visa routes. The same compliant photo is accepted for every route below — only the supporting documents differ.
Why United States visa photos get rejected
- Background is off-white, textured or shadowed instead of the plain white or off-white tone United States requires.
- Head is outside the 25–35 mm chin to crown window — the single most common mechanical failure.
- Smiling, open mouth, or eyes partially closed.
- Glare on glasses, tinted lenses, or frames crossing the eyes.
- Digital retouching, beauty filters or a photo cropped out of a group picture.
- Printed at the wrong dimensions — United States expects 51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 in) exactly, with no border.
- Low resolution or heavy JPEG compression once uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo is needed for a United States visa?
51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 in). Head height must be 25–35 mm chin to crown, taken against a Plain white or off-white background. United States applies this specification across its visa routes, so the same photo works for a visitor, student or work application.
Can I wear glasses in a United States visa photo?
Assume no. Almost every authority now rejects glasses because of glare and frame obstruction. If you must wear them for a medical reason, carry the supporting letter to your appointment.
How recent does a United States visa photo have to be?
Within the last six months, and it must reflect your current appearance — beard, hair length and glasses status included.
Can I use the same photo for every United States visa route?
Yes. United States publishes one biometric photo standard, so a compliant photo is accepted across the routes listed on this page. Only the surrounding documents change.
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