US Visa Photo Maker (DS-160)
Get the exact US visa photo size (2×2 inches, 600×600px) in seconds for your DS-160 application. AI background removal, free for Indian citizens.
US Visa (DS-160) Photo Requirements
US Visa Photo Specifications (DS-160, 2026)
The US visa photo for the DS-160 form is 2x2 inches square with a plain white background. The same specification applies to B1/B2 tourist, F1 student, and most non-immigrant visa categories. For a deeper breakdown see our US visa photo requirements guide.
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) |
| Digital size | 600 x 600 px (min) to 1200 x 1200 px |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| File format | JPEG, maximum 240 KB |
| Head height | 1 to 1⅜ inches (50–69% of frame) |
| Glasses | Not allowed (banned since 2016) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
US Visa Photo Requirements for Indian Citizens
Indian applicants need the photo at two stages of the US visa process:
- DS-160 upload: Upload a 600x600px (or larger, up to 1200x1200px) square JPEG under 240 KB while filling the DS-160 form.
- Interview / Dropbox: Carry one printed 2x2 inch photo on white background to the consulate or VFS Dropbox, in case the digital upload is rejected.
- If the upload fails: The DS-160 system rejects photos that don't meet the head-size or background rules — this tool checks compliance before you download.
Common Mistakes in US Visa Photos
- Wearing glasses — Glasses have been banned in US visa photos since November 2016. Remove them.
- Head too small or too large — Head height must be 50–69% of the frame (1 to 1⅜ inches).
- Non-white background — Only plain white or off-white is accepted.
- Wrong shape — The US photo is square (2x2 inches), not the 35x45mm rectangle used for Schengen/UK.
- Smiling or old photo — Use a neutral expression and a photo taken within the last 6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the US visa photo size?
The US visa photo size is 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), square, with a plain white background. For DS-160 digital upload it must be 600 x 600 pixels (minimum) up to 1200 x 1200 pixels, JPEG, under 240 KB. This tool outputs the exact size automatically.
What is the photo size for the DS-160 form?
The DS-160 photo must be a square 2x2 inch image, 600x600 to 1200x1200 pixels, JPEG format, under 240 KB, with a white or off-white background and the head occupying 50–69% of the frame.
Can I wear glasses in a US visa photo?
No. Glasses have been banned in US visa and passport photos since November 2016. You must remove your glasses for the photo.
Can I create a US visa photo online for free?
Yes — this tool creates DS-160-compliant 2x2 inch US visa photos for free, no signup. It runs in your browser so your photo is never uploaded. You can download both a digital file and a print-ready sheet.
Is the US visa photo the same as the Indian passport photo?
Both are 2x2 inches (51x51mm) square with a white background, so the size matches. However the US visa requires the head to be 50–69% of the frame and bans glasses, so use the US preset to ensure compliance.
What background does a US visa photo need?
A plain white or off-white background with no shadows or patterns. Upload any photo and the AI replaces the background with a compliant white one.