DV Lottery Photo Requirements
US photos must be unedited — so we don't edit them
The State Department asks for an original photo without digital changes, and checks for edits. For US passports and visas SnapID only crops and resizes your photo: the background stays as you shot it. Take it against a plain white or off-white wall, with space above your head and around your shoulders.
Source: travel.state.gov — Passport photosEvery Diversity Visa (Green Card lottery) entry needs a digital photo of each person on it. The photo is checked when you're selected, and a photo that doesn't meet the rules can disqualify the entry — including one that has been digitally edited. SnapID crops and sizes your original photo without editing it, and checks it against the rules before you enter.
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These are the most common rejection reasons — SnapID checks for them before you pay.
Wrong background color
Using white when cream is required, or off-white when pure white is needed. Our AI detects and flags background issues instantly.
Shadows on face
Overhead or side lighting creates shadows that cause rejection. SnapID checks for even lighting on both sides of your face.
Incorrect head position
Head tilted, turned to the side, or not centered in the frame. Our AI measures exact positioning against official rules.
Eyes not visible
Closed eyes, hair covering eyes, or glare from glasses. Especially common with babies — our AI checks for this.
Wrong dimensions
Each country has exact size requirements. SnapID auto-crops to the precise dimensions needed for your destination country.
Blurry or low-resolution photo
Out-of-focus or heavily compressed photos get rejected. SnapID checks sharpness and resolution before you pay.
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Tips for a perfect photo
The file
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JPEG, square, 600 × 600 pixels, and 240 KB or smaller. SnapID's DV/DS-160 file is exactly that size and is compressed to stay under 240 KB.
The photo itself
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Taken in the last six months, in colour, facing the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open, against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses. Head and top of shoulders in the frame.
No edits — at all
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The State Department says photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered. That's why, for US documents, SnapID only crops and resizes your photo: the background, face and colours stay exactly as you shot them. Take the photo against a plain light wall.
Everyone on the entry needs their own photo
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Your spouse and each unmarried child under 21 need their own photo, even if they don't plan to immigrate. Don't reuse a photo from a previous year's entry, and don't use the same photo for two people.
Entering is free
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The DV entry is free on the official site, dvprogram.state.gov. Entries open once a year, usually in October — check the official instructions for the dates. Anyone who asks you to pay to enter is not the State Department.
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Upload Photo – Free CheckDV Lottery Photo Requirements – Complete Guide
The file: JPEG, square, 600 × 600 pixels, and 240 KB or smaller. SnapID's DV/DS-160 file is exactly that size and is compressed to stay under 240 KB. The photo itself: Taken in the last six months, in colour, facing the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open, against a plain white or off-white background. No glasses. Head and top of shoulders in the frame. No edits — at all: The State Department says photos must not be digitally enhanced or altered. That's why, for US documents, SnapID only crops and resizes your photo: the background, face and colours stay exactly as you shot them. Take the photo against a plain light wall. Everyone on the entry needs their own photo: Your spouse and each unmarried child under 21 need their own photo, even if they don't plan to immigrate. Don't reuse a photo from a previous year's entry, and don't use the same photo for two people. Entering...
Frequently asked questions
What size is a DV lottery photo?
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A square JPEG of 600 × 600 pixels, 240 KB or smaller.
Can I edit my DV lottery photo?
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No. The photo must not be digitally enhanced or altered, and a non-compliant photo can disqualify the entry. SnapID only crops and resizes US photos — it doesn't change the background or your face.
Can I take the DV photo with my phone?
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Yes, as long as it meets the rules: plain white or off-white background, even light, neutral expression, no glasses, taken in the last six months.
Can I use last year's DV photo?
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No — take a new photo for each entry. The photo must have been taken in the last six months.
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