File size and dimensions
DV Lottery Photo Size: 600×600 Pixels and 240 KB
The numbers in the DV photo rules describe different properties. Dimensions are measured in pixels, aspect ratio describes the shape, and kilobytes describe how much storage the file uses. Fixing one does not automatically fix the others.
Reviewed against U.S. Department of State photo guidance · September 12, 2026
Dimensions, shape and file size explained
| Property | DV entry target | What it controls |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 600 pixels | Horizontal image dimensions |
| Height | 600 pixels | Vertical image dimensions |
| Aspect ratio | 1:1 square | Prevents a rectangular or distorted result |
| Format | JPEG | The encoded image type accepted for the entry |
| File size | No more than 240 KB | Stored data after JPEG compression |
On smaller screens, swipe horizontally to see every column.
What 600×600 pixels means
Pixel dimensions describe the number of image pixels across and down. A 600×600 image is 600 pixels wide and 600 pixels high. Because both values are equal, its aspect ratio is 1:1, or square.
Do not confuse pixels with printed inches. The 600×600 rule applies to the digital image uploaded with an online Diversity Visa entry. Printed photographs used later in the visa process have separate physical-size instructions.
Why cropping should happen before resizing
A typical phone camera creates a rectangular photo. Stretching that rectangle directly to 600×600 distorts the applicant's face. Crop a square composition first, then resize the square to the required pixel dimensions.
The crop must still preserve the correct head proportion and eye position. Centering the face without measuring the crown, chin and eye line can produce a file that is technically 600×600 but visibly noncompliant.
What the 240 KB limit means
Kilobytes measure the stored file size, not the width or height. Two photographs with the same 600×600 dimensions can have different file sizes because JPEG quality, detail and compression vary.
If a finished JPEG exceeds 240 KB, re-export it with moderate JPEG compression. Inspect the result at full size: excessive compression can introduce blockiness, halos or loss of facial detail even though the file becomes smaller.
- 240 KB is a maximum, not a target that must be reached exactly.
- Changing only the filename extension does not convert the image to JPEG.
- DPI metadata does not replace the 600×600 pixel requirement for the online file.
- Always reopen the downloaded file and confirm its final dimensions and appearance.
A safe correction sequence
Start with the highest-quality original available. Crop it to a square using the correct head placement, resize that crop to 600×600 pixels, export as JPEG, and then reduce JPEG quality only as much as necessary to remain under 240 KB.
The ToolsFA checker follows this order when a correctable file issue is detected. It also rechecks the finished copy, but you should still compare the visible photo with the official examples.
Official sources
Always check the instructions for the program year in which you apply. ToolsFA is independent and is not affiliated with the U.S. government.