Get Your Best US Visa Photo
How to take your own biometric photo
Get the perfect biometric ID photo in 3 minutes or less.
Check out just how easy it is!
Take or upload a photo
First, snap a photo or upload one from your device. Our photo editing tool will help you frame the picture correctly.
Get your photo fine-tuned by AI
Next, AI fine-tunes your photo by adapting the background to meet all requirements. It also crops and resizes the image.
Let our experts verify the pictures
Finally, one of our experts carefully verifies the picture against official requirements. You get the feedback in under a minute.
Enjoy your new photos
Your 100% compliant photos are ready for instant download. You can also order printouts and get them delivered to your door.
Tips for taking your own biometric photos
Follow these steps to get the best results
Mind the distance
Pose 4–6 feet (1–2 meters) from the camera. Use a timer to take your photo or have someone snap it for you.
Face the camera directly
Keep your head straight. Avoid tilting your body or looking away. Remember: portrait mode is not suitable for any ID photos.
Ensure good lighting
Take your photos in daylight e.g., next to a bright window. Shadows on your face or in the background are not allowed.
US visa photo in a nutshell
Size
Resolution
Is it suitable for online submission?
Is it printable?
Need more details? Read the information below
What are the photo requirements for a US visa?
According to the official requirements of the U.S. Department of State, your photograph for a US visa must:
- Reflect your current appearance—it cannot be older than 6 months
- Measure 2x2 inches (51x51 mm)
- Have a plain white or off-white background
- Have the applicant’s head occupy between 1 to 1 ⅜ inches (25–35 mm) of the picture’s height
- Have the applicant face the camera directly with ears visible, eyes open, and mouth closed
Where can I get US visa photos taken?
You can take your US visa photos comfortably at home with our online photo tool. If you prefer visiting a physical location to snap your photos, you have a few options at your disposal.
Outside the US, you can visit any photography studio and ask for US visa photos. Professional photographers should know exactly what requirements the picture must meet.
If you’re already on US soil and need to renew your US visa, the most popular choices for taking biometric photos are:
- CVS/Walgreens pharmacies
- Walmart
- Staples
- UPS stores
Alternatively, you can always google “US visa photos near me” and find the location that’s most suitable for your needs.
What kind of picture do I need for the DS-160?
DS-160 is an application form for US immigrant visas that can be submitted online. It requires applicants to upload a digital visa image that is 600x600 pixels and equal to or less than 24kB. Additionally, US visa applicants should bring a printed copy of their 2x2 inch visa photograph to their interview.
Are US visa photos the same as passport photos?
Yes, the requirements for a US passport and visa photograph are the same. Try our professional photo tool—it lets you prepare all kinds of biometric and document pictures with only your smartphone!
Are there any specific guidelines for babies and infants in US visa photos?
US visa photos for babies and infants must meet all the same technical requirements as adult pictures. However, the regulations on facial expressions are more flexible since newborns, infants, and small children are allowed to have their eyes closed and mouths open.
Get a photo for your passport or other documents
Pick your document and get started now
Featured in
