Drag the photo to move it. Put 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 visa passport photo
- 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 the photo until your head fits the guide.
- Press Make my photo to get a square JPEG under 240 KB.
- Download it and upload it to your visa or DV lottery entry.
US visa passport photo requirements at a glance
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Image shape | Square |
| Pixels | 600 x 600 to 1200 x 1200 |
| File type | JPEG, sRGB color |
| File size | Up to 240 KB |
| Head size | Between 50% and 69% of the image height |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
Rules can change, so read the US Department of State digital image requirements before you submit. PicFitter does not check head size, lighting or background for you.
Questions
What size must a US visa or DV lottery photo be?
The Department of State asks for a square JPEG between 600 x 600 and 1200 x 1200 pixels, up to 240 KB.
Does this tool make the file smaller than 240 KB?
Yes. It picks the highest quality that fits under 240 KB and warns you if it cannot.
Does it change my background?
No. It only crops, resizes and compresses. Use a plain white or off-white wall in the original photo.
Is my photo uploaded?
No. Everything runs in your browser.
Will my entry be accepted?
PicFitter sets the size and file type, but acceptance is decided by the Department of State. Check head size, background and expression against the official requirements.