Drag the photo to move it. Place the top of the head on the top line and the chin inside the shaded zone. This guide is approximate.
How to make a US passport photo at home
- Take a front-facing photo against a plain white or off-white wall in even light, with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
- Upload it here and drag it until your head fits the guide.
- Press Make my photo to get a square JPEG under 240KB.
- Download it and upload it to your application, or print it at 2 x 2 inches.
US passport photo requirements at a glance
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Printed size | 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) |
| Digital size | Square, 600 x 600 to 1200 x 1200 pixels |
| File type | JPEG, sRGB color |
| Digital file size | Up to 240 KB for visa photos |
| Head size | 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 mm) from chin to top of head |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
These figures come from the US Department of State. Rules can change, so read the official digital image requirements before you submit. PicFitter does not check head size, lighting or background for you.
Questions
What size is a US passport photo?
A printed US passport photo is 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm). For online uploads it must be a square JPEG between 600 x 600 and 1200 x 1200 pixels.
What is the maximum file size for a US digital photo?
The Department of State digital image rules for visa photos allow up to 240 KB. This tool compresses your photo to fit under 240 KB. Always check the limit shown on your own application page.
Does this tool remove or whiten the background?
No. It only crops, resizes and compresses. Take your photo in front of a plain white or off-white wall with even light.
Is my photo uploaded to a server?
No. Everything runs in your browser, so your photo stays on your device.
Will the Department of State accept the result?
PicFitter formats the file size and shape, but the final decision is always made by the Department of State. Check head size, background and expression against the official requirements.