How to use this preset
- Take a fresh photo on a white or off-white background, no glasses.
- Crop to a square so your head fills about half to two thirds of the height.
- Add it here; 600 x 600 px and the 240 KB cap are preset. Press Resize image.
- Upload the JPG in the photo step of the DS-160.
The full DS-160 digital checklist
The State Department digital image page sets five technical rules. The upload tool checks them before a person ever looks at your face:
| Rule | Value | This preset |
|---|---|---|
| Format | JPEG | JPG |
| Shape | Square | Center-cropped square |
| Pixels | 600 x 600 to 1200 x 1200 | 600 x 600 |
| File size | 240 KB or less | Kept under 240 KB |
| Compression | Ratio of 20:1 or less | High quality first, reduced only as needed |
| Head size | 50-69% of image height | Set by your crop |
Checked October 2026. Confirm on travel.state.gov before submitting.
When the upload fails
An error that names the photo usually means one rule failed, often head size or the file being too big. A "service unavailable" or 503 error is different: it is the State Department server, not your file, so save the application and try again later. You can return to the photo step later to change the photo before you sign and submit.
- Do not over-compress: an over-squeezed 30 KB file can break the 20:1 rule.
- Entering the DV lottery too? Its photo must be exactly 600 x 600: see DV lottery photo.
- Need prints for the interview? Use the passport photo maker or US passport photo page.
Photo quality rules
The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, against a plain white or off-white background. Face the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open. Since 2016, glasses are not allowed in visa photos. Avoid shadows on your face or behind you, and do not use filters, beauty modes or background removal apps that leave rough edges.
Framing for a visa photo
Your head should fill roughly half to two thirds of the frame height, with the eyes about two thirds of the way up. The tool center-crops to a square, so if your face is off to one side, crop it manually with the crop tool first. A clean square crop with your face centered is the best input for this page.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the DS-160 photo?
Square JPEG, between 600 x 600 and 1200 x 1200 pixels, 240 KB or less.
Why is my DS-160 photo too large?
Phone photos are several MB. This tool brings it under 240 KB automatically.
Is the DS-160 photo the same as the DV lottery photo?
The digital size rules are very similar, but check each program's current instructions.
How do I change the photo on my DS-160?
Before you sign and submit, go back to the photo step and upload a new file. After submitting, you usually need a new or updated application; check your embassy instructions.
Can I submit the DS-160 without a photo?
Some applicants can continue if the upload fails, but you may then need to bring a printed photo to the interview. Rules vary by embassy.
Why does the DS-160 photo upload fail with a 503 error?
A 503 or "service unavailable" error comes from the server, not your photo. Save your application and try again later.