Why this page converts better
2×2 inches exactly — the only US format, used for passports, visas and Green Card applications
US passport photo size: 2×2 inches
The square format the State Department uses for passports, visas, and the DV lottery. Set the size, frame to the head-height guides, and export at 600×600 px without your photo leaving the device.
Why this page converts better
Head-height guides for the 1 to 1 3/8 inch rule, which is what most rejections come down to
Why this page converts better
Exports at 600×600 px, the minimum the DV lottery upload accepts
Why this page converts better
Your photo is cropped and rendered in the browser; nothing is uploaded
About this tool
Unlike most of the world, the United States uses a square photo: 2×2 inches, or 51×51 mm. The same photo works for a passport book, a visa application submitted through DS-160, a Green Card application and the DV lottery, which is why it is worth getting right once.
Two measurements decide acceptance. The head, measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head including hair, must be between 1 and 1 3/8 inches. The eyes must sit between 1 1/8 and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom edge. The guides in the tool mark both, so you can drag the photo until it lands inside them rather than guessing.
The background must be white or off-white and evenly lit — a shadow cast on the wall behind you is one of the most common reasons a photo comes back. Glasses have not been allowed since November 2016, even without glare. The photo must have been taken within the last six months.
Common use cases
DV lottery entry
The entry form takes a digital photo between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels as a JPEG under 240 KB. Exporting at 300 DPI gives exactly 600×600; the compressor handles the file size if the upload rejects it.
Passport renewal by mail
Form DS-82 needs one printed 2×2 photo. Print a sheet on 4×6 photo paper and cut, rather than paying a pharmacy per pair.
Visa interview at a consulate
Many consulates ask for a printed photo in addition to the one uploaded with DS-160. Keeping the same crop for both avoids a mismatch being questioned.
Official spec
The US passport and visa photo is 2×2 inches with the head 1 to 1 3/8 inches tall. Make one in your browser at 600×600 px, white background, nothing uploaded.
Photo size
50.8 × 50.8 mm (2 × 2 in)
Head height
50–69% → 25.4–35.1 mm
Eye line
62% → 31.5 mm
Accepted background
White / Off-white
At 300 DPI
600 × 600 px
On 4×6in photo paper
2 copies (2 × 1)
These dimensions, head ratios and backgrounds follow the issuing authority's published specification. The tool cannot judge expression, lighting, headwear or clutter behind you, so this is guidance rather than a guarantee of acceptance — check the authority's own checklist before you submit.
Finish in 3 steps
Open the tool1
Upload a straight-on photo taken in the last six months, with even light on your face and the wall behind you.
2
Pick United States 2×2in — the frame and the head-height guides update to the official measurements.
3
Drag and zoom until the top of your head and your eye line sit inside the guides, then export at 600×600 or print a sheet.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in a US passport photo?
No. Glasses have not been accepted since November 2016, with a narrow medical exception that needs a signed doctor's statement. Take them off before you shoot rather than trying to avoid the glare.
What size file does the DV lottery accept?
A JPEG between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels, under 240 KB. A 300 DPI export from this tool is exactly 600×600. If the file is over 240 KB, run it through the image compressor and target 240 KB.
Is the free version enough for a passport photo?
For a single digital photo, yes — the free export is unwatermarked at 300 DPI, which meets the printed and the uploaded requirement. The multi-up print sheet and 600 DPI output are Pro.
Can I smile?
A natural, neutral expression with both eyes open is what the specification asks for. A closed-mouth smile is usually accepted; showing teeth or raising the eyebrows is what gets flagged.