Photo Requirements for U.S.Visa & Immigration Applications
Most U.S. immigration applications require you to submit two "passport-style" photos. It's possible to take these photos yourself to print or upload digitally with your application. However, the photo requirements are very specific.
A passport-style photo is a 2 x 2 inch photograph that meets the U.S. Department of State's (DOS) passport photo specifications. Most U.S. immigration applications (including visa applications and adjustment of status applications) require this type of photograph.
What Are the General Photo Requirements for Visa and Immigration Applications?
The general photo requirements are:
The photo should be the right size, which depends on whether it's a printed photo or digital photo.
The photo should be in color. Black and white photos are not accepted by the DOS.
The photo should be taken within six months of submitting your immigration or passport application. It should reflect how you look when you submit your application.
The photo background should be white or off-white.
You should be looking directly into the camera with your full face showing.
You should have a neutral expression (not smiling, laughing or frowning) and both eyes should be open.
There should be nothing in your photo except your face. For example, do not wear earphones or show your hand in the photo. If you're taking a photo of an infant, make sure no one's hands are in the photo.
What Are the Photo Requirements for Printed Photos?
Printed photos must meet the general requirements and:
The photo should be on photo-quality paper.
The photo should be 51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 inches).
The height of your head (top of hair to bottom of chin) should measure between 2 mm and 35 mm (1 inch to 1 3/8 inches).
The height of your eyes should be between 28 mm and 35 mm (1 1/8 inches to 1 3/8 inches) from the bottom of the photo.
What Are the Photo Requirements for Digital Photos?
Digital photos must meet the general requirements and:
The photo should be square (the height equal to the width).
The photo dimensions should be between 600 x 600 pixels and 1200 x 1200 pixels.
59% to 69% of the photo should be the height of your head (top of hair to bottom of chin).
The height of your eyes should be between 56% and 69% of the image's height.
Color problems are generally caused by the type of light you are using. Florescent lighting could cause the picture to have a yellow tint. You may be able to change the color by making sure your camera settings match the type of light you are using.
Photo Contrast:
Contrast problems can be caused by too much or too little light OR by the wrong camera settings.