DV Lottery Photo Requirements (DV-2026): The Complete List

DV Lottery · 6 min read · Updated: 2026-07-03

One of the most common reasons DV (Diversity Visa) entries get disqualified is a non-compliant photo. The rules are set by the U.S. Department of State and enforced by automated and human review. Here are the technical rules for DV-2026:

Technical requirements

• Size: exact square, minimum 600x600, maximum 1200x1200 pixels (2x2 inch print equivalent).
• File: JPEG, maximum 240 KB, sRGB color space.
• Head height: chin to top of head must be 50–69% of the image height.
• Eye height: 56–69% measured from the bottom edge.
• Background: white or off-white; no shadows, patterns or objects.
• Recency: taken within the last 6 months; reusing an old passport photo is risky.

Pose and appearance

• Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression or natural smile; head not tilted.
• No glasses (banned since 2016, except with a medical statement).
• No hats; religious head coverings are accepted if the face outline stays visible.
• No headphones, badges or other accessories.

The critical part: crop geometry

Most applicants get the pixel size right but fail the head ratio and eye height. If the head measures 72% (too close) or the eye line sits at 50%, the photo can be rejected — and the entry system does not always tell you immediately. That is the silent disqualification risk.

Source: travel.state.gov — DV Program ↗

📸 Check your photo free now →

Checks and preview are free; your photo is never stored on our servers.