Diversity Visa (DV) lottery photo: size and rules
The digital photo is 600 × 600 px, up to 240 KB, as JPEG.
- Head 50% to 69%
- Eye line 56% to 69%
Photo specification
| Image size | 600 × 600 px |
|---|---|
| File size | up to 240 KB. The source counts 1 KB as 1,000 bytes. |
| Formats | JPEG |
| Head, crown to chin | 50% to 69% of the image height |
| Eye line, up from the bottom | 56% to 69% of the image height |
We check sizes and positions; the issuing authority decides acceptance. Last checked 28 Sep 2026. Rules change. Check the issuing authority’s current instructions before you apply.
Background and editing
The source asks for a white or off-white background. The rules do not allow digital changes to the photo, so the background has to be right when the photo is taken. Retake it against a plain wall instead of editing the background. PortraitPass keeps background replacement off by default for this document.
Rules from the source
- Digital image: JPEG, square, 600 x 600 pixels, 240 kB or less.
- Entries with manipulated photos are ineligible; no digital enhancement.
- Head from top of hair to chin: 50% to 69% of image height.
- Eye line: 56% to 69% of image height, measured from the bottom.
- Photo taken within the last 6 months, plain white or off-white background.
Expression, lighting and how recent the photo is cannot be measured from a picture, so check them yourself.
Can you make it at home?
Yes. Digital entry photo only; nothing is printed.
PortraitPass frames the photo against the head and eye lines above, then exports a file at the exact pixel size and under the size limit.
Sources
- Diversity Visa Instructions (travel.state.gov)Issuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
- Photo Requirements (travel.state.gov, visas)Issuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
Found a wrong or outdated number? Open an issue with the source link.
Common questions
What size is a Diversity Visa (DV) lottery photo?
The digital upload is 600 × 600 px, as JPEG.
Can I take a Diversity Visa (DV) lottery photo at home?
Yes. The source accepts a photo you prepare yourself.
What background does a Diversity Visa (DV) lottery photo need?
The source asks for a white or off-white background.
How many KB can a Diversity Visa (DV) lottery photo be?
The file size limit is up to 240 KB. The source counts 1 KB as 1,000 bytes.
Where do the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery numbers come from?
From the issuing authority’s own pages: Diversity Visa Instructions (travel.state.gov) and Photo Requirements (travel.state.gov, visas). Last checked 28 Sep 2026.
Guides for this photo
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