American visa: what should my photo be like during the procedure so that it is not rejected?

The American visa is an official document issued by the United States government that allows foreign citizens to enter the country. Depending on the purpose of the trip, there are different types of visas. In Colombia, the process of applying for an American visa involves several steps and the presentation of certain documents, but one of the most important, according to the embassy of this country, is the photo.

If you are in the process of applying for or renewing your American visa, one of the most important stages is the photograph that you must submit along with your application. Although for many the photograph seems like a minor detail, the truth is that it plays a vital role in the acceptance of your procedure.

This is why it is essential to follow to the letter the requirements established by the United States Embassy, ​​which has strict requirements to guarantee that the photos meet the necessary standards, and failure to follow these guidelines may delay or even reject your application.

(You can read: Step by step to schedule the American visa interview, according to the US Embassy)

The importance of photography in the visa application

When it comes to applying for a visa, the photograph must not only reflect your current appearance, but also meet a number of specific requirements. In fact, the photo is one of the essential elements that must accompany your application. Since November 1, 2016, US authorities implemented an important rule: photos must be taken without glasses.

If your current passport still shows you with glasses, don’t worry, you don’t need to renew your passport right away. However, at your next renewal, you must submit a photo without glasses. Additionally, dark glasses, sunglasses, and glare-filled lenses are not acceptable.

Detailed visa photo requirements

To ensure that the photograph is accepted, it must meet the following criteria, as explained by the US Embassy on the Instagram social network:

1. Size and format: Photo must measure 5 x 5 cm (2 x 2 inches) and must be printed on quality photo paper, with a matte or glossy finish. The photo file must be JPG.
2. White background: The background must be white or off-white, without shadows. Avoid dark backgrounds or any objects that may interfere with image clarity.
3. Facial expression and posture: The expression should be neutral or with a slight natural smile, if you prefer. You should look directly into the camera with both eyes open. Avoid exaggerated gestures or forced smiles, as this can invalidate the photo.
4. Head position: The head should occupy between 50% and 69% of the total height of the photo, and should be taken from the front, without tilting to the sides. The image should capture your entire face, from your chin to the top of your head.
5. Clothing and accessories: It is recommended to wear normal clothing and not uniform. The only exception is religious clothing that is worn daily, but these should not cover the face or create shadows. The use of hats or head accessories is also not permitted, unless they are for religious use.
6. Validity time: The photograph must be taken within the last six months to ensure it reflects your current appearance. This is especially important if you have undergone significant changes to your appearance, such as facial surgeries, weight loss or gain, or a change in gender.
7. Print the photo: You must print the photo for processing on high-quality photographic paper. Then, he tapes it to the inside of the passport without obstructing the face with the material.

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Tips if you decide to take the photo yourself

Although the State Department recommends using a professional service to make sure your photo meets all requirements, it’s also possible to take it on your own by following a few tips. Make sure you are well lit, with no shadows on your face. The camera should be at eye level and you should be looking directly at it.

Avoid editing the image digitally, as any alteration may cause your photo to be rejected. As for the background, it should be white, and if you don’t have a white wall in your house, you can improvise with a sheet or cardboard of the appropriate color. The embassy recommends that they not be selfies.

If you are taking a photo of a baby or infant, make sure that no one else is in the image and that the baby is looking at the camera with his or her eyes open. The baby may be lying on a white sheet or placed in an infant chair covered with a white cloth. to ensure your head is well supported and the bottom is adequate.

(You may be interested in: This is how you can renew your US visa without an interview: pay attention to these requirements)

Common mistakes to avoid

Photos taken in automatic booths, on cell phones, or photographs that do not meet the required quality standards are not accepted. This includes scanned photos of official documents, such as driver’s licenses or IDs, as well as photos taken at vending machines. Additionally, snapshots or poor quality photos will not be accepted. If the photograph does not meet the requirements, a new one will need to be taken.

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Additional requirements depending on the type of visa

It is important to note that photographic requirements may vary depending on the type of visa being requested. For nonimmigrant visas, for example, you are required to upload your digital image to Form DS-160. For immigrant visas, you must submit two printed 2 x 2 inch photographs. If you are participating in the Diversity Visa (DV) Program, you will need to upload a digital image that meets specific technical requirements.

Taking the right photo for your American visa is not just a matter of clicking the camera; There are very specific details that must be met to prevent your application from being rejected. So make sure you follow all these requirements carefully. If you have any questions, it is best to find a professional photographer specialized in visa photos.