Everything you need to get your photo accepted on the first try — plus a free tool to size it correctly in under a minute.
| Photo size | 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) |
| Digital dimensions | 600 x 600 px minimum, up to 1200 x 1200 px |
| File size | Under 240 KB (JPEG) |
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| Head size | 1 to 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of head |
| Expression | Neutral, both eyes open, mouth closed |
| Glasses | Not permitted (as of current guidance) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
Yes, as long as it's well-lit, in focus, and shows you facing forward against a plain background — no filters or heavy editing.
The most common reasons are a non-white or shadowed background, incorrect head size, or a file that exceeds the 240 KB digital limit.
Not required. A phone photo against a plain wall, cropped correctly, meets the requirement for most applicants.
Reduce JPEG quality slightly or retake the photo with a simpler, more evenly lit background — busy or shadowed backgrounds compress poorly and stay large.
This page provides general guidance based on commonly published requirements. Always confirm current specifications on the official U.S. Department of State or CEAC website before submitting your application.