US ESTA Photo Requirements and Specifications

Updated on Aug 24, 2024 | Online US Visa

If you are planning to apply for US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), you might already be aware of all the requirements for the application. One of the basic criteria is to upload your recent photo, but it is not that simple.

There are many requirements and specifications you must comply with when you upload the photo. If these requirements are not met, your application will be turned down.

But before we get started on photos, let's learn a bit about US ESTA.

What is US ESTA?

US ESTA is a travel document required if you want to travel to the US and live in any of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries. It is approved by the US Customs and Border Protection Agency and allows you to stay in the UA for 90 days without a standard visa.

It's similar to visas for tourists; however, the entire process is online, making it simpler for you. This online US visa is only valid for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

How to Apply for a US ESTA?

To apply for the US ESTA, you need to:

  • Visit an online US visa website.
  • Ensure you fulfill each of the eligibility requirements.
  • Complete the application.
  • Upload the required documents.
  • Make the payment.
  • Apply

Requirements for US ESTA

When applying for the US ESTA, you need to have the following:

  • A valid passport from one of the Visa Waiver Program countries.
  • A valid email ID.
  • Your home address and phone number.
  • Your emergency contact number and email.
  • Photo meeting the requirements
  • Payment of the application fee.

It is common for people to make mistakes when uploading their photos and not meet the photo requirements for US ESTA.

Below are all the photo specifications and requirements you need to know.

READ MORE:
Knowing about validity facts is crucial for smooth travel planning before booking your flight. The ESTA is valid for two years. But here is a surprise! It is linked to your passport directly. Read more at The Online US Valid Validity.

ESTA Photos Requirements

It is mandatory for you to upload a photo that was taken in the past 6 months to match your current appearance. You can either upload a photo you took recently or use your device to take a new photo to upload.

What Should Be the Dimensions, Size, and Format of the Photo?

When applying for your ESTA online, you need to take care of the following details:

  • Your photo must be square.
  • The photo dimension must be at least 600 by 600 pixels and a maximum of 1200 by 1200 pixels.
  • The top of the head (hair included) and the bottom of the chin have to make up 50% to 69% of the image's overall height.
  • The eye height should be between 56% and 69% of the height of the picture, measured from the bottom to the level of the eyes.
  • The image's file size must be 240 KB or less.
  • The photo should be a JPEG file.

What Type of Background and Lighting Can Be Used in the Photo?

  • The background must either be plain white or off-white (no designs or patterns on the backdrop)
  • There must be no shadow in the image.
  • The lighting must be even for a clear photo.

What Accessories and Clothes Are Permitted in the Photo?

  • Your clothes need to be plain and of daily use (no uniforms).
  • Eyeglasses are not permitted anymore. The exception is if they are required for medical reasons (under such circumstances, a medical statement attested to by a physician or other health care provider is required).

If the spectacles have medical justification:

  • The eyeglass frames shouldn't go over the eyes.
  • Glasses should not reflect light in any way.
  • Eyeglasses must not create shadows or refraction.
  • Do not wear sunglasses.
  • Hearing devices can be worn.
  • Hairline has to be visible. Hats and scarves are not permitted.
  • Religious head coverings are acceptable as long as the face is visible.
  • There can be no headphones, wireless hands-free devices, or similar objects visible.

How Should the Photo Be Taken?

  • Facial expressions must stay neutral.
  • Face the camera - your entire face must be visible.
  • Your eyes must be open and mouth must be closed.
  • The photo must have clarity - no blurs.
  • Your face has to be in focus so the image is sharp.
  • The photo has to be in color (natural tone with no editing)
  • Make sure that the photo has no red eyes.
  • The photo should not be a selfie.
  • Long hair must be tucked behind the ear for the face to be visible.
  • Ensure the photo is taken 1.5 meters away from you.

If you have more questions, you can take the help of the US ESTA Visa Help Desk and resolve them before you submit the application.

ESTA US Visa is an electronic travel authorization or travel permit to visit United States for a period of time upto 90 days and visit this amazing marvel in New York, United States. International visitors must have a US ESTA to be able to visit United States many attractions. Foreign citizens can apply for an US Visa Application in a matter of minutes. ESTA US Visa process is automated, simple, and completely online.

Australian citizens, Finnish citizens, Italian citizens, and Estonian citizens can apply online for Online US Visa.

 
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