US Visa Photo (DS-160) — Free 600×600 Resizer
The DS-160 online visa application needs a square digital photo between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels, saved as a JPEG of 240 KB or less. This free tool crops and resizes your photo to exactly 600×600 px and keeps it under the limit.
Free to crop and resize in your browser. Not affiliated with any government.
Drop a photo here or tap to upload
Free · Output 600×600 px JPEG, under 240 KB · Cropping runs in your browser
US Visa (DS-160) photo requirements
| Dimensions | Square, minimum 600×600 px and maximum 1200×1200 px |
|---|---|
| File | JPEG, 240 KB or less, 24-bit sRGB colour |
| Head size | 1 to 1⅜ in (22–35 mm), or 50%–69% of the image height, chin to top of head |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| Glasses | Not allowed, except in rare medical cases with a doctor's statement |
| Expression | Neutral, both eyes open, full face toward the camera |
| Head coverings | Only if worn daily for religious reasons; full face visible, no shadows |
| How recent | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Not allowed | Digital alteration, uniforms (except daily religious clothing), headphones |
Sources: U.S. Department of State: Photo requirements · Digital image requirements. Rules change; always confirm with the official guidance before you submit.
Tips to avoid rejection
- The State Department forbids digitally altered photos. Cropping and resizing are fine; changing the background, skin or face is not.
- Take the photo in front of a plain white wall with even light from the front, so there are no shadows behind your head.
- Remove glasses before the photo. They are no longer accepted for US visas.
- The consular officer makes the final decision, even if the upload tool accepts your photo.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a US visa photo for the DS-160?
A square JPEG between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels, 240 KB or smaller. Printed photos are 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).
Can I wear glasses in a US visa photo?
No. Glasses are not allowed in US visa photos except in rare medical cases, which need a signed medical statement.
Can I edit my DS-160 photo?
Only crop and resize it. The State Department rejects photos that were digitally altered, including replaced backgrounds or retouched faces.
What background does a US visa photo need?
A plain white or off-white background with no patterns or shadows.
How old can my visa photo be?
It must have been taken within the last 6 months and show how you look today.