Photo Requirements
Uploading a Digital Photograph
To submit a digital photograph, you have two options: you can either take a new digital photograph or scan a recent one (taken within the last six (6) months) with a digital scanner, as long as it meets the standards outlined below. Your DV entry photos must match the quality and composition requirements of U.S. visa photos. Upload at least 600x600 to a maximum of 1200x1200 pixels in dimension
Please do not submit a photograph that is older than six (6) months or one that does not meet all the specified standards. Submitting the same photograph that you used in a previous year's entry, a manipulated photograph, or one that fails to meet the specified specifications will disqualify you from the DV program.
You must upload your digital image as part of your entry. Your digital image must be:
-
In JPEG file format (.jpeg)
-
Equal to or less than 240 kilobytes in file size
-
In a square aspect ratio
-
At least 600 x 600 to a maximum of 1200 x 1200 pixels in dimension
White background and neutral facial expression Headscarf placed to reveal face
Your photos or digital images must be:
-
In color
-
In focus and look straight in the camera
-
Avoid using filters. Be your natural self and show your real skin tone
-
Sized such that the head is between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm) or 50 percent and 69 percent of the image's total height from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head
-
The photo must be taken within the last six (6) months to accurately represent your current appearance
-
It should be taken against a plain white or off-white background
-
You must be directly facing the camera in a full-face view
-
Maintain a neutral facial expression with both eyes open
-
Uniforms should not be worn in your photo, except religious clothing that is worn daily.
-
Your full face must be visible
-
Do not wear a hat or head covering that obscures the hair or hairline, unless worn daily for a religious purpose
-
If you have a head covering it must not cast any shadows on your face
-
Headphones, wireless hands-free devices, or similar items are not acceptable in your photo
-
Do not wear eyeglasses
-
If you normally wear a hearing device or similar articles, they may be worn in your photo
Photos or digital images of a baby or toddler:
-
When taking a photo of your baby or toddler, no other person should be in the photo.
-
They should be looking at the camera with his or her eyes open.
-
TIP: Place your baby on their back on a plain white or off-white sheet. This will provide both support for your baby's head and a plain background for the photo.
-
Be sure to check for any shadows on your baby's face, especially when taking a picture from above while the baby is lying down.
DV Lottery Photo FAQ
"What are the photo specifications for the DV lottery?
-
When applying for the Diversity Visa Program online, your photo should adhere to a resolution of 600 by 600 pixels. If you are selected for the program, you will need to provide two identical photos measuring 2 x 2 inches (or 51mm x 51mm) during the interview.
Is it permissible to use the same photo for the DV lottery?
-
No, this is not in compliance with the DV Lottery photo requirements. If you use a photo that you have previously submitted for previous lotteries, your entry will be disqualified. Therefore, you must use a new photo taken within the last 6 months.
Is it acceptable to smile in a Green Card photo?
-
No, smiling is not permitted according to the Green Card photo requirements, which specify that your facial expression should be neutral. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid a broad smile."
