DS-160 photo upload error: what to check

There are two different problems. If the form says your photo doesn't meet the requirements, the file or the photo needs fixing. If you see “service unavailable” or error 503, the government website itself is having trouble, and a new photo won't change that.

Get a DS-160 photo file

Checking is free. You pay $9.99 only after your photo passes, and we never edit it.

If the form won't accept your photo

  1. It must be square.The height has to equal the width.
  2. Between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels.Smaller or larger files are not accepted.
  3. A JPEG file.Many phones save photos as HEIC, and screenshots are often PNG. The DS-160 needs a JPEG (.jpg).
  4. 240 KB or less.A photo straight from a phone camera is usually far bigger than this.
  5. The photo itself must follow the rules.In color, plain white or off-white background, head filling 50% to 69% of the height, no glasses, taken in the last 6 months.

If you see “service unavailable” or error 503

A 503 error means a website's server could not handle the request. It comes from the website, not from your file, so there is nothing to fix in your photo. Try again later.

Some embassies and consulates also ask you to bring one printed photo to your interview. Check the instructions for the place where you are applying.

Questions

What size should a DS-160 photo be?

Square, between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels, and 240 KB or less, saved as a JPEG.

Can I edit my photo to make it fit?

You can crop and resize it. You must not digitally enhance or alter it to change your appearance in any way.

Do I have to upload a photo to the DS-160?

The form instructs you to upload a digital photo as part of the online application.

Does PicPassed fix the file for me?

Yes. We check your photo first, then crop and save it as a square 600×600 JPEG under 240 KB. We never change your face or the background.

Summarised from the U.S. Department of State photo guidance. Always check the latest official rules for your application.

More help: How to take a passport photo at home · Passport photo with glasses · Passport photo rejected

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