Getting your US visa photo right is critical—even a small mistake can lead to rejection. This 2025 guide covers the exact American visa application photo size, background rules, and free tools to ensure your photo meets US embassy standards.

✅ Latest 2025 Updates for American visa application photo size
✅ DS-160 Photo Requirements
✅ Free Online Visa Photo Tool
✅ B1/B2, H1B, DV Lottery Specs

1. American Visa Application Photo Size (2025 Official Rules)

The US visa photo size must follow strict guidelines:

• Dimensions: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)
• Head Height: 1 to 1.4 inches (25 – 35 mm) from chin to top of head
• Resolution: 600×600 pixels minimum (high-quality, no blur)
• File Format: JPEG (.jpg) under 240 KB

⚠️ Common Rejection Reasons:

• Wrong dimensions
• Blurry or pixelated
• Incorrect background

2. US Visa Photo Background Color & Dress Code

Background Requirements

• Must be plain white or off-white (no shadows, patterns, or textures)
• No editing (e.g., Photoshop, filters)

What to Wear for US Visa Photo?

• Avoid white clothing (blends with background)
• Neutral colors (dark blue, gray, black)
• No uniforms or religious headgear (unless for daily wear)

3. DS-160 Photo Requirements (2025 Updates)

The DS-160 form (for tourist, work, and student visas) requires:
✔ Recent photo (taken within last 6 months)
✔ Neutral facial expression (no smiling, eyes open)
✔ No glasses or headwear (except religious reasons)

📌 Pro Tip: Use the US visa photo tool free (like Passport Photo Online) to auto-crop and resize.

4. US Visa Photo Size for B1/B2, H1B, DV Lottery

5. Free US Visa Photo Tool & Sample

How to Get a Compliant Photo for Free?

1. Use an online tool (e.g., US Visa Photo Tool)
2. Upload a selfie (ensure good lighting)
3. Auto-crop & download (print at Walgreens/CVS)

6. Country-Specific US Visa Photo Rules

India, UK, Canada, Philippines

• India: US visa photo specifications India require matte finish prints.
• UK/EU: Same 2×2 inches, but must be signed by photographer.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the US visa photo size in cm?

A: 5.1 x 5.1 cm (same as 2×2 inches).

Q2. Can I wear glasses in my US visa photo?

A: No, unless medically required (with a doctor’s note).

Q3. Where can I print my US visa photo?

A: Walgreens, CVS, or UPS Store (ask for “US visa passport photo size”).

Final Checklist Before Submitting

✅ 2×2 inches (51×51 mm)
✅ White background
✅ Neutral expression
✅ No glasses/headwear
✅ High-resolution (600×600+ pixels)

Additional FAQs About American Visa Applications

1. How can I apply for an American visa?

You can apply for an American visa by completing the online visa application form (DS-160) and scheduling an appointment at a US Embassy or Consulate.

2. What is the US visa application process from Canada?

If you are in Canada, you can apply for a US visa through the online application system and visit the US embassy or consulate in cities like Calgary for your interview.

3. How do I apply for a US tourist visa?

To apply for a US tourist visa (B1/B2 visa), complete the DS-160 form, pay the visa fee, and attend a visa interview.

4. What is the ESTA and who should apply for it?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is for travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries visiting the US for tourism or business for up to 90 days. Apply for US ESTA online.

5. Can I apply for an American visa online?

Yes, you can submit an American visa application online by filling out the DS-160 form and following the instructions for scheduling an appointment.

6. What is the process to renew a US visa?

US visa renewal can often be completed online without an interview if you meet specific eligibility requirements. Check the US embassy website for guidelines.

7. How do I apply for a student visa to the USA?

You must first be accepted into a US school, receive your I-20 form, and then apply for a US student visa (F-1 visa) by completing the DS-160 form and attending a visa interview.

8. How can US citizens apply for a Vietnam e-visa?

US citizens can apply for a Vietnam e-visa through the official Vietnamese government portal.

9. How can I apply for a work visa in the USA?

To apply for a US work visa, you must have a job offer from a US employer who will file a petition (Form I-129) on your behalf before you complete your work visa application.

10. What is the US visa lottery and how can I apply?

The US Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery offers a chance to win a US green card. You can register online during the open registration period each year.

11. Can I apply for an American visa from outside the US, like from India or New Zealand?

Yes, you can apply for an American visa at the US embassy or consulate in your home country, whether it’s India, New Zealand, or any other country.

12. What is the US transit visa application?

A US transit visa (C visa) allows travelers to pass through the US en route to another country. You need to fill out the DS-160 form and schedule an interview.

13. What is the visa waiver program for the USA?

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows travelers from approved countries to enter the US without a visa for tourism or business for up to 90 days. ESTA approval is required.

14. How can I apply for an American tourist visa?

To apply for an American tourist visa (B2 visa), complete the DS-160 form, pay the visa fee, and attend a visa interview at your nearest US embassy or consulate.

15. Can I apply for a US visitor visa from India?

Yes, Indian citizens can apply for a US visitor visa by completing the DS-160 form and attending an interview at the US embassy or consulate in India.

16. How do I renew my US visa online?

Some US visa categories allow you to renew your visa online without appearing for another interview, provided you meet specific conditions.

17. What is the D-160 US visa form?

The DS-160 form is the standard online application form required for most nonimmigrant US visa categories.

18. How can I apply for a spouse visa to the USA?

A spouse visa (CR1 or IR1) requires your US citizen spouse to file a petition (Form I-130) before you can apply for your immigrant visa.

19. Can US citizens apply for a Saudi or Turkey e-visa?

Yes, US citizens can apply for Saudi Arabia and Turkish e-visas online through their official government websites.

20. How do I apply for a Green Card to the USA?

You can apply for a Green Card through employment, family sponsorship, asylum, or the Diversity Visa Lottery.

21. What are the US visa photo requirements?

The US visa photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, on a white background, and sized 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).

22. What is the DS-160 form for the US visa?

The DS-160 is the online nonimmigrant visa application form required for most US visa categories, including tourist and student visas.

23. How do I renew my US visa online?

If eligible, you can renew your US visa online by submitting your DS-160 form and mailing your passport and documents to the visa application center.

24. What is the required photo size for a US visa application?

The US visa photo size must be exactly 2×2 inches (51mm x 51mm).

25. How much does it cost for a US tourist visa?

As of now, the application fee for a US tourist visa (B1/B2) is approximately $185 USD. Always check the US embassy website for the latest fees.

26. Can I use a free online passport photo maker for my visa photo?

Yes, many free online passport photo creators can help format your photo according to US visa photo requirements.

27. What are the steps to apply for a tourist visa to the USA from India?

Complete the DS-160 form, pay the visa fee, book a visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in India, and attend the appointment with your documents.

28. What is the cost of a visitor visa to the USA?

The cost of a visitor visa (B1/B2) is typically around $185 USD, excluding any additional service or courier charges.

29. What are the types of American visas available?

There are several types including tourist visas (B1/B2), student visas (F1), work visas (H1B, L1), and immigrant visas for permanent residency.

30. What is the cost of a USA visit visa application?

The USA visit visa application fee is around $185 USD for nonimmigrant categories like tourist and business visas.

31. What is the US D-160 form used for?

The DS-160 form is essential for applying for a US nonimmigrant visa, capturing all your personal, travel, and security details.

32. How much is the tourist visa for the USA?

The tourist visa fee is around $185 USD. However, fees can vary based on your nationality and the type of visa.

33. What are the photograph specifications for a US visa application?

Photos must be 2×2 inches, clear, with a plain white background, and the applicant’s head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches high.

34. How do I renew my US visa if I am currently in the USA?

If eligible, you can renew your visa without leaving the US by following the specific renewal process or may need to travel back to your home country.

35. What is the visa price for visiting America?

A standard visitor visa costs around $185 USD, but prices vary if additional services or expedited processing are requested.

36. What is the application process for an American student visa?

Apply to a SEVP-approved school, get an I-20 form, complete DS-160, pay the SEVIS fee, and attend a visa interview at a US embassy.

37. Can I apply for a work visa in the USA from India?

Yes, you need a job offer from a US employer who must file a petition on your behalf before you apply for a US work visa from India.

38. How do I apply for a US visitor visa online?

Start by filling out the DS-160 form online, then pay the visa fee and schedule your interview at the nearest US embassy.

39. What is the size requirement for a passport photo for a US visa?

Your passport photo for a US visa must be 2×2 inches in size.

40. What are the visa photo specifications for an American visa?

The photo must have a white background, no glasses, a neutral facial expression, and meet the exact size and quality standards of 2×2 inches.

41. How can I renew my US visa if it has expired?

If your visa expired less than 48 months ago, you might qualify for interview waiver renewal. Otherwise, you’ll need to attend another visa interview.

42. What are the US embassy visa application photo requirements?

The US embassy requires that your visa photo must be recent (within 6 months), sized 2×2 inches, with a clear background and no shadows.

43. What is the USA visit visa application process online?

Complete the DS-160 form online, pay your visa fee, and schedule an interview appointment at a US embassy or consulate.

44. What is the cost of a visa to America?

The cost for most nonimmigrant visas to America, like tourist or visitor visas, is about $185 USD.

45. What are the requirements for a travel visa to the US?

You’ll need a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation, visa appointment, visa fee payment receipt, and proof of ties to your home country.

Need a Guaranteed-Compliant Visa Photo?

Try our Free US Visa Photo Tool – 100% Embassy Approved!

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