DS-160 Photo Upload Problems

If the DS-160 photo upload turns down your photo, check the file first. A US visa photo must be a square JPEG between 600 x 600 and 1200 x 1200 pixels, 240 KB or smaller. Export the photo at that size and upload the JPG as it is.

The file rules

File type: JPEG.
Shape and size: square, between 600 x 600 and 1200 x 1200 pixels.
File size: 240 KB or smaller.

Common causes and fixes

The photo is straight from a phone camera. Phone photos are usually not square and are often several megabytes, well over 240 KB. Crop to a square and export a smaller JPEG. (Passport911 tip, not an official rule)
The file is not a JPEG. Screenshots are often PNG files, and iPhones may save photos as HEIC. Export or save the photo as a JPEG. (Passport911 tip, not an official rule)
The photo is too small. Photos sent through messaging apps or saved from social media are often shrunk. Start from the original photo so the export is at least 600 x 600 pixels. (Passport911 tip, not an official rule)
The file changed after you exported it. Editing, re-saving or sending the photo to yourself can change its size or format. Upload the downloaded file as it is. (Passport911 tip, not an official rule)
Photo must be a real photo, not a picture of a printed photo or a screen.

When the file is fine but the photo is not

A file that meets the size rules can still be turned down if the photo itself does not meet the requirements. Error wording on the upload page can change, so if the message is not about the file, check the photo rules:

Head (chin to top of head) must be 50% to 69% of the photo height (1 to 1 3/8 inches in a 2x2 inch photo).
Plain white or off-white background, with no pattern, texture or shadows.
No eyeglasses. A signed doctor's note is required if glasses cannot be removed for medical reasons.
Neutral facial expression, mouth closed, both eyes open.

Make a file that fits

The US visa photo maker crops your photo to a square and exports a 600 x 600 JPEG that it keeps at 240 KB or smaller. Editing and measuring happen in your browser.

Make a US visa photo for DS-160

Frequently asked questions

What photo file does the DS-160 accept?

A square JPEG between 600 x 600 and 1200 x 1200 pixels, 240 KB or smaller.

Why is my DS-160 photo too large?

Photos straight from a phone camera are often several megabytes. Export a JPEG of 240 KB or smaller; the Passport911 visa maker does this for you.

Can I upload a screenshot of my photo?

No. The photo must be a real photo, not a picture of a printed photo or a screen. Use the original photo.

Does passing the checker mean my photo will be accepted?

No. Passport911 checks your photo against published requirements, but final acceptance is decided by the issuing agency.

Sources

Content last reviewed 2026-10-18. Requirements can change, so confirm them with the issuing agency.