US Passport Photo Size - Resize to 2x2 Inch
Resize your photo to the exact US passport photo dimensions: 2 inches by 2 inches (600x600 pixels at 300 DPI). Works for US passport applications, US visa photos, green card applications, and USCIS forms.
Step 1: Resize to 2x2 inch (600x600 px)
Drop image here or tap to upload
JPG, PNG, WebP, HEIC — up to 20 MB
Step 2: Compress if needed (optional)
Drop image here or tap to upload
JPG, PNG, WebP, HEIC — up to 20 MB
US Passport Photo Requirements (State Department Guidelines)
The US Department of State has very specific requirements for passport photos. If your photo doesn't meet these requirements, your application can be delayed or rejected. The most common reasons for rejection are incorrect head size, wrong dimensions, colored or busy backgrounds, and shadows. Getting all of these right is much easier if you start with the correct digital size before printing.
US Passport Photo Specifications
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 2 inches x 2 inches (51mm x 51mm) |
| Digital size | 600x600 pixels at 300 DPI (minimum) |
| File format | JPEG recommended |
| Background | Plain white or off-white only |
| Head size | 1 inch to 1 3/8 inch from chin to top of head |
| Eye position | 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 inch from the bottom of the photo |
| Glasses | Not allowed since January 2016 |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
How to Take a Correct US Passport Photo at Home
- Stand in front of a plain white wall with even lighting. Natural light from a window (not direct sunlight) works well.
- Have someone else take the photo at eye level, about 4 to 5 feet away. Selfies don't work because they distort face proportions.
- Keep a neutral expression and look directly at the camera. No smiling, no tilting your head.
- Remove glasses. They've been prohibited since January 2016.
- Use the Crop tool to crop the image square, ensuring your head takes up about 70 to 80 percent of the frame.
- Resize to 600x600 px using the tool above.
- Print at a photo center at 300 DPI to get a 2x2 inch physical photo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the US passport photo size in pixels?
The US passport photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches. At 300 DPI (the standard print resolution), this is 600x600 pixels. The State Department also accepts 600x600 px digital submissions for online applications.
Can I use the same photo for a US visa and US passport?
Yes, if it meets both requirements. Both require a 2x2 inch (51mm x 51mm) photo on white background with specific head size rules. A photo that passes passport requirements will generally pass US visa requirements too.
Are glasses allowed in a US passport photo?
No. The US State Department banned glasses in passport photos starting January 2016. Even if you wear glasses every day, your passport photo must be taken without them. This applies to both regular glasses and prescription eyewear.
Can I smile in a US passport photo?
A natural, relaxed expression with your mouth closed is recommended. A slight smile is sometimes accepted, but a big toothy smile is usually rejected by facial recognition systems. Neutral is always safe.
What background is required for US passport photos?
Plain white or off-white background only. No patterns, shadows, or colored walls. The State Department's photo tool will specifically check for background compliance, and colored or busy backgrounds are a common reason for rejection.