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US visa photo checker for DS-160 and DV Lottery

The DS-160 photo upload refuses files that aren't a square JPEG between 600 × 600 and 1200 × 1200 pixels and 240 KB or less. The DV Lottery wants exactly 600 × 600 px. Check your file before you upload it, in a second.

  • JPEG, square, 600–1200 px, 240 KB
  • Instant, nothing uploaded

Your photo stays on this device. Nothing is uploaded.

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How to check a DS-160 photo file

  1. 01

    Pick the form

    DS-160 visa application, or the Diversity Visa (green card) lottery. Their pixel rules differ.

  2. 02

    Choose the photo file

    Pick the exact JPG you plan to upload. Only its header is read, so the file isn't changed.

  3. 03

    Fix what fails

    A failing row says what to change. The DS-160 photo maker makes a new file that passes all four.

What the four checks mean

  • Format: the form accepts JPEG (.jpg or .jpeg) only. A PNG or HEIC renamed to .jpg is still caught.
  • Pixel size: 600 × 600 px at least and 1200 × 1200 px at most for the DS-160; exactly 600 × 600 px for the DV Lottery.
  • Square: width and height must be equal.
  • File size: 240 KB or less, counted as 240,000 bytes to be safe.
  • This page checks the file. For head size, eyes and background, use the passport photo checker on the same photo.

Questions people ask

What size is a DS-160 photo?

A square JPEG of 600 × 600 px up to 1200 × 1200 px, 240 KB or less, in colour, with the head 50–69% of the photo height on a white or off-white background.

Why does the DS-160 say my photo failed?

The most common reasons are a file over 240 KB, a photo that isn't square, or a size under 600 × 600 px. This checker shows which one. Shadows, glasses or a tilted head can also fail the State Department's own photo check.

Is the DV Lottery photo the same as the DS-160 photo?

Almost. Both are square JPEGs of 240 KB or less, but the DV Lottery asks for exactly 600 × 600 px while the DS-160 accepts up to 1200 × 1200 px.

Can I edit the background to make it white?

No. The State Department says photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered. Retake the photo against a plain white wall instead.

Is my photo uploaded?

No. The file is read in your browser and never leaves your device.

Next stepFile failed?Make a new DS-160 photo that passes: square, 600 × 600 px, under 240 KB.