Complete USA crew visa 2x2 inch Requirements for US - Expert Tips

Requirements

• Photo size: must be exactly 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) with square dimensions and no cropping
• Head size and position: distance from bottom of chin to top of head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) and centered vertically
• Eye height: eye line should be between 1 1/8 inches and 1 3/8 inches (28–35 mm) from the bottom edge of the photo
• Background: plain white or off-white, uniformly lit, free of shadows, textures, patterns or objects
• Expression and pose: full-face view looking directly at camera with neutral expression (no smiling, mouth closed)
• Glasses: no eyeglasses permitted except for documented medical reasons—frames must not cover eyes and no glare or reflections
• Head coverings: only allowed for religious purposes—must not obscure hairline or cast shadows on the face; full facial features must remain visible
• Photo quality: high resolution (minimum 600 dpi), printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper with no creases, tears, ink marks or borders
• Color and lighting: natural color balance without red eye, harsh shadows or uneven lighting; skin tones must appear natural
• Recency: photo must be taken within the last six months to reflect current appearance

Step-by-Step Process

• Check official requirements: Visit the U.S. Department of State website to confirm the 2×2 inch photo specifications for crew visas, including color, recent (within 6 months), and no digital alterations.
• Select a professional photographer: Choose a studio experienced with U.S. visa photos to ensure they understand and apply the exact size, head positioning, background, and printing standards.
• Prepare the shooting area: Use a plain white or off-white backdrop, even lighting with no shadows on the face or background, and position lights at 45° angles for uniform illumination.
• Position the applicant: Have the subject face the camera directly, maintain a neutral expression with eyes open and mouth closed, keep head centered and shoulders squared, and ensure both ears are visible.
• Capture the image at high resolution: Use a digital camera with at least 300 dpi, frame the subject so the head height is 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 mm) from crown to chin, and the eye line is 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches (28 to 35 mm) from the bottom of the photo.
• Crop and resize digitally: Import the image into professional editing software, set the canvas to exactly 2×2 inches, align the head and eye measurements precisely, and save as JPEG with minimal compression (ideally 240 KB–1 MB).
• Print on quality photo paper: Use matte or glossy photo paper of at least 190 gsm, ensure the printout measures 2×2 inches exactly, and inspect for color consistency and sharpness with no visible pixels or printer artifacts.
• Verify compliance with a template: Overlay a U.S. visa photo compliance template or use an online checker to confirm correct size, head placement, background uniformity, and absence of glasses, headwear (unless religious), or shadows.
• Submit with application: Include two identical printed photos stapled gently (not folded) to your DS-160 confirmation page or C-visa application packet, and, if required, upload the digital JPEG to the visa appointment portal following file size and naming conventions.

Tips and Best Practices

Content about Complete USA crew visa 2x2 inch Requirements for US - tips

Conclusion

In summary, the US crew-visa photo requirements mirror standard US visa rules for a 2×2-inch image:

• Size & format: exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), color print on matte or glossy photo paper
• Head positioning: head height between 1″–1⅜″ (25–35 mm) measured from chin to crown, centered with full face visible
• Background & lighting: plain white or off-white background, even lighting with no shadows or glare
• Expression & pose: neutral expression, eyes open and looking straight at camera, no hats or headgear (except daily religious wear)
• Glasses & accessories: no glasses, sunglasses, headphones or visible jewelry that obscure the face
• Recency & quality: taken within the last 6 months, high resolution (minimum 600×600 pixels for uploads), sharp focus with natural skin tones
• Digital submission: JPEG format, file size 240 KB–1 MB, 600×600–1200×1200 pixel range, correct cropping and no digital artifacts

By following these precise specifications, crew members ensure their visa photos meet US government standards and minimize the risk of processing delays.