Taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance.

Sit in front of a plain white or off-white background for best results. The area behind you in the photo should be uncluttered and either white or off-white. Face directly toward the camera and make sure your eyes are open. Frame yourself within the photo so that your full face shows. Head orientation is important when taking your visa photo.

The maximum dimensions are 1200 pixels x 1200 pixels (height x width). The minimum dimensions for your photo are 600 pixels x 600 pixels (height x width). Your photo must be 5cm x 5cm and square-shaped, meaning the photo's height must be the same as its width. In a good photo, the height of your head will measure 1-1-3/8 inches (25 to 35mm), or fill between 50%-70% of the photo, like this: Your photo must show your entire head, from the top of your hair to the bottom of your chin. If you are renewing a previous visa, this generally means your photo must not be the same one that appeared on your old visa.

To reflect your current appearance, your photo must be taken within the last six months. Submitting photos that do not meet these criteria can delay the visa application process.

Your visa application photo must meet certain criteria regarding size and content. You will also be fingerprinted when you arrive for your interview at the U.S.

You should also bring a copy of your photograph to the U.S. When applying for a nonimmigrant visa, you are required to upload a digital photograph taken within the last six months as part of completing and submitting the Form DS-160.

State department visa photo tool