US Visa Photo — 2×2 Inch US Embassy Compliant
Get a US Embassy-compliant visa photo (2×2 inch, 51×51mm, plain white background) online. Identical spec to a US passport photo — AI checks all requirements before you pay.
Photo requirements
- Size: 2×2 inches (51×51mm) — square format
- Background: Plain white only — no off-white, grey or patterns
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and looking straight ahead
- Glasses: Not allowed for any US visa photos (US Embassy rule since 2016)
- Standard: US Embassy compliant — accepted for B1/B2, F1, H1B, J1 and all other US visa types
Why Smart Passport Photo
- ✅ Free preview before you pay — see the result first
- ✅ Same spec as US passport photo — works for both
- ✅ AI enforces plain white background automatically
- ✅ Free retake or refund if the US Embassy rejects the photo
- ✅ Accepted at all US Embassy and consulate visa application centres worldwide
- ✅ $4.99 one-off, no subscription
- ✅ Photo deleted from our servers within 24 hours
Free to preview · Pay once · No subscription
Photos deleted within 24 hours · UK servers (AWS eu-west-2) · Never used for AI training · Rated on Trustpilot
How it works
- 1. Stand in front of a plain white wall with even lighting (natural daylight facing you works best). Use your phone's rear camera at eye level. No glasses, neutral expression, look straight at the camera.
- 2. Upload your photo. Our AI replaces the background with pure white and checks head size, position, expression and lighting against US Embassy requirements.
- 3. Review the free preview. Retake for free if anything needs adjusting.
- 4. Download your 2×2 inch photo instantly. Print on 6×4 glossy paper, cut to size, or use the digital file for online DS-160 visa applications.
Official resources
For the official specification, see US State Department — visa photo requirements. Smart Passport Photo is an independent service and is not affiliated with any government body.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Is a US visa photo the same as a US passport photo?
Yes — US visa and US passport photos have identical specifications: 2×2 inches (51×51mm), plain white background, colour, taken within the last 6 months. If you have a valid US passport photo, you can use the same image for a visa application.
Can I wear glasses in a US visa photo?
No. The US Department of State has not accepted glasses in visa or passport photos since 2016, even prescription glasses with no glare. This applies to all US visa types including tourist (B1/B2), student (F1), work (H1B) and exchange (J1) visas.
What background is required for a US visa photo?
A plain, bright white background is required. Off-white, cream, light grey or any pattern are not accepted. Our AI enforces this automatically — whatever background you photograph against, we replace it with the correct white.
How do I submit a US visa photo online?
For most US visa types, you complete Form DS-160 online and upload a digital photo directly. The file must be in JPEG format, between 5KB and 10MB. Our download is optimised for this. For some visa categories, you bring printed photos to your visa appointment.