Free US visa (DS-160) photo checker
Check your existing DS-160 photo for free without uploading it: pixtidy processes it in your browser, with no sign-up. You get all ten results as pass, warning or fail before any payment, plus retake advice for failed checks.
Use a recent photo: face the camera, even light, no glasses. Background: white or off-white, no shadows, texture or lines.
What it checks
- One face in the photo
- Whole head fits in the frame
- Head size and eye position
- Both eyes open
- Mouth closed
- Facing the camera
- White or off-white background, no shadows
- Even lighting
- Sharp, in focus
- File size within the official limit (DS-160: 240 KB or less)
What it doesn't check
- Glasses: remove them unless you have a medical reason and a statement signed by a medical professional.
- Head coverings: verify that yours follows the rules.
- Whether the photo is recent: confirm it meets the recency requirement.
See the Department of State's visa photo rules. A pass does not guarantee acceptance; the consulate decides. The optional file is cropped and sized only: no background replacement or face retouching. Price depends on the country you pay from and is shown before you pay (DS-160 specifications and pricing).
Frequently asked questions
Is the DS-160 photo checker free and private?
Yes. All ten results are free, with no sign-up, and your photo is processed in your browser without ever being uploaded.
What are the DS-160 digital photo requirements?
Your photo must be a square color JPEG, 600 x 600 to 1200 x 1200 pixels, and 240 KB or less. Your head must occupy 50-69% of the photo height, with your eyes positioned 56-69% from the bottom.
Do I have to buy the cropped photo?
No. You can review every result and the advice for failed checks without paying. The optional cropped, correctly sized file costs US$9.99 in the US, UK, Canada and the EU, with lower prices in many other countries, shown before you pay.
What if my photo passes but is rejected?
If the issuing authority rejects a photo the checker marked as passing, you qualify for a full refund under the refund policy. A passing result is not a promise of acceptance.
Checking a passport photo instead? US passport photo checker · Refund policy · Privacy