Printed photo versus digital upload

A printed U.S. visa photo is 2×2 inches (51×51 mm). A digital visa image uses a square aspect ratio and has separate technical limits. The Department of State currently lists 600×600 pixels as the minimum, 1200×1200 as the maximum, JPEG format, sRGB color and a file size of 240 KB or less.

Important file-size warning

This tool creates a 600×600 high-quality JPEG but does not promise that the file will be 240 KB or smaller. Check the downloaded file before a DS-160 upload and follow the instructions shown by your embassy or consulate.

How to prepare the crop

Open the official visa photo requirements from the tool panel.
Upload a recent color photo with a plain white or off-white background.
Center the full face and keep a neutral expression with both eyes open.
Generate the single image or print sheet.
Check pixels, file type, file size and the instructions for your exact visa route.

Composition limits

The official digital composition template says the head should occupy 50% to 69% of total image height and eye height should be 56% to 69% from the bottom. The on-screen oval is only a visual guide. Compare your result with the official photo composition template.

Frequently asked questions

Is the output automatically DS-160 ready?

No. It provides a square crop at 600×600 pixels, but you must separately verify JPEG format, file size, color and every photo requirement.

Can I bring the 4×6 sheet to an interview?

Follow the instructions for the embassy or consulate handling your case. Some routes require printed photos, while others rely on a successful digital upload.

Can I retouch the face or replace the background?

Do not digitally alter appearance. Use a suitable source photo and follow the official examples of acceptable and unacceptable images.