Free tool for this:DV Lottery photo tool
In the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, a photo that doesn't meet the requirements can disqualify your entry, and you can't fix it after submitting. These are the technical rules.
Technical requirements
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Shape | Square (1:1) |
| Size | Between 600 × 600 and 1200 × 1200 pixels |
| File size | 240 KB maximum |
| Format | JPEG (.jpg) |
| Colour | 24-bit colour (sRGB) |
| Background | Plain white or off-white, no shadows or patterns |
Making a compliant photo
The DV Lottery photo tool crops your photo to an exact 600 × 600 square and keeps it under 240 KB. Drag and zoom so your head is centred with space above it, then download.
Other rules to follow
- Use a recent photo and look straight at the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
- Remove glasses.
- Use a separate, recent photo for each person on the entry, including children.
- Don't reuse a photo from a previous year's entry.
Enter only on the official site
The DV Lottery is free to enter, and entries are accepted only at dvprogram.state.gov during the official registration period. Check the US State Department website for the current entry dates, and be careful of websites or agents that charge a fee to "guarantee" a win.