US Visa · Green Card · March 2026

Green Card Lottery (DV Lottery) Photo Requirements (2026)

TL;DR: Diversity Visa (DV) lottery photos have the same strict rules as US passport photos: 600×600 px, 240 KB max, neutral background. AI alteration is strictly banned since January 2026. PixID validates all biometric specs so you don't waste time on re-submissions.

Written by PixID.studio · Verified against U.S. State Department visa photo requirements.

DV Lottery 2026 Photo Rules

The official diversity visa lottery requires a recent photo. If you use a photo older than 6 months, you will be disqualified. Specifications match US passport: 2×2 inch equivalent (600×600 px), plain white background, neutral expression, no glasses.

2026 AI Ban: The State Department now rejects photos altered by AI (beauty filters, portrait mode, skin smoothing). PixID does not apply any AI face alteration — your photo remains a true, unmodified likeness.

PixID for DV Lottery

  • Compliance: PixID performs 100+ checks including the specific head-to-height ratio required for DV lottery submissions.
  • No AI: As per 2026 guidelines, we do not perform AI facial alteration, keeping you compliant.
  • Background: We ensure your photo background is pure white.

Prepare Your DV Lottery Photo — $4.99

600×600 px · 240 KB max · No AI alteration · 100+ biometric checks

Get My DV Lottery Photo →

100% Money-Back Guarantee if your photo is rejected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear glasses for DV Lottery photo?
No. As of 2016, glasses are banned in all US visa and passport photos, including the DV lottery. You will be disqualified if you wear them.
What happens if I use an old photo?
If the system detects you've used a photo from a previous year's lottery (or one older than 6 months), you will be disqualified. Photos must be taken within the last 6 months.

Create DV Lottery photo (landing page) →

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