How to use this preset
- Take a new photo for each person on the entry, on a plain light background.
- Crop to a square with the face centered; do not retouch it.
- Add it here; exactly 600 x 600 px and 240 KB are preset. Press Resize image.
- Upload the JPG on the official E-DV entry form.
How the DV photo differs from the DS-160
Both programs are run by the State Department and both cap the file at 240 KB, which is why the two get mixed up. The difference is the pixel size:
| DV lottery entry | DS-160 visa form | |
|---|---|---|
| Pixels | Exactly 600 x 600 | 600 x 600 up to 1200 x 1200 |
| File size | 240 KB or less | 240 KB or less |
| Format | JPEG, square | JPEG, square |
Source: travel.state.gov photo requirements, checked October 2026.
So a 1200 x 1200 visa photo is valid for the DS-160 but fails the DV entry. This page always outputs exactly 600 x 600.
Editing and phone photos
The State Department says photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered to change your appearance. Resizing and cropping change the file, not your face, but background-replacement apps, beauty filters and blemish removal are risky. A phone camera is fine: use the rear camera, good daylight and a real white wall, then resize here.
- Each spouse and eligible child needs a separate photo.
- Keep the original, unedited file in case you are selected.
- Need a square crop first? Use the 1:1 cropper or crop image.
- Applying later on the DS-160? See the DS-160 photo page.
Why the photo matters so much
In the Diversity Visa program, an incorrect photo is one of the most common reasons entries are disqualified, and there is no chance to fix it after submission. Every person included in the entry, including your spouse and each eligible child, needs their own photo that meets the rules. Getting the size and file format right is the first step.
Use a new photo, every year
Photos must be taken within the last six months. Reusing last year's entry photo is a known cause of disqualification. Take a new picture with a neutral expression, eyes open, facing the camera directly, in even light on a white or off-white background. Glasses are not permitted, and head coverings are only acceptable for religious reasons.
Children and babies
Children need their own photo even if they are infants. For babies, lay them on a plain white sheet and photograph from above, making sure no hands or toys are in the frame and the eyes are open if possible. Then crop to a square and resize here.
Beware of scams
Entering the DV program is free on the official site. Be careful with websites that charge to submit your entry or promise better chances. This tool only resizes your photo, privately, in your browser, and does not submit anything.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the DV lottery photo?
A square 600 x 600 pixel JPEG, 240 KB or less, in 24-bit color.
Can I use an old photo?
No. It must be taken within six months; reusing photos can lead to disqualification.
Does every family member need a photo?
Yes, each person listed on the entry needs their own photo.
Can a DV lottery photo be edited?
Only cropping and resizing are safe. The State Department says photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered to change your appearance.
Can I take a DV lottery photo with my phone?
Yes. Use the rear camera in daylight against a plain white or off-white wall, then crop and resize it to 600 x 600 here.
Can I edit the background of my DV lottery photo?
It is safer not to. Background replacement is a digital alteration and can cause disqualification. Shoot against a real plain wall instead.