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Visa type

B1/B2 visitor visa photo — requirements and how to make one

Quick answer

B1/B2 tourist and business visitors upload the standard U.S. visa photo to their DS-160: 600 × 600 px JPEG, plain white background, face filling 50–69% of the frame, neutral expression, no glasses. The spec is identical to F1, H1B, and other non-immigrant visa classes.

Take your visa photo

The camera coaches you live on:

  • Head tilt & angle
  • Lighting & shadows
  • Head size in frame
  • Background plainness
  • Blur / sharpness

Most issues get caught in the viewfinder, before you tap shutter.

We never alter facial features — only crop, resize, and clean the background.

Want a friend to take it? Tap the flip-camera icon once inside to switch to the rear camera.

Pick a photo above to enable the check.

Official requirements

  • 600 × 600 px square JPEG, ≤ 240 KB (DS-160 spec)
  • Plain white or off-white background, no shadow
  • Head 50–69% of the image height, centered
  • Neutral expression, both eyes open, looking at the camera
  • No eyeglasses (since 2017); no head coverings unless worn daily for religion
  • Taken within the last 6 months

Common rejection reasons

  • Photo not square or not at least 600 × 600 — DS-160 won't accept it
  • Background colored, shadowed, or has visible objects
  • Wearing eyeglasses or sunglasses
  • Hat or non-religious head covering
  • Smiling with teeth — neutral expression is required
  • Photo older than 6 months

Frequently asked

Is a B1 (business) photo different from a B2 (tourist) photo?

No. B1, B2, and combined B1/B2 visas all use the same DS-160 application and the same photo spec. The visa class is determined by the purpose of your trip, not the photo.

Family is applying together — do we need separate photos?

Yes. Every applicant — including infants and children — needs their own DS-160 form and their own photo. For infants, take the photo with the child lying on a plain white sheet, head facing up, eyes open if possible.

I'm renewing my B1/B2 — do I need a new photo?

Yes. Even for renewals, the photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. The old photo on your previous visa doesn't carry over.

Can I wear casual clothing for the photo?

Yes. Everyday clothes are fine — no need for formal attire. Uniforms (military, occupational, school) are not allowed. Daily-worn religious clothing is allowed as long as the face is fully visible.

What if I'm visiting the U.S. multiple times — can I reuse the photo?

If your visa is still valid, no new photo is needed. If you're applying for a new visa or extension, a fresh photo (within 6 months of application) is required.

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