Compare · 
USA · 
Australia
USA vs Australia visa photo: 51 × 51 mm vs 35 × 45 mm
USA: 51 × 51 mm. Australia: 35 × 45 mm. Head height, background, glasses and file rules for the visa photo, side by side from each issuing authority.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while Australia requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
In short
USA requires 51 × 51 mm while Australia requires 35 × 45 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will be rejected by the other.
Specification table
Every value in this table is taken from the official publications of the two issuing authorities. Open either country page for the full rule set, the printable layout and the source links.
| Attribute | USA | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size≠ differs | 51 × 51 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600 × 600 px | The authority does not publish this detail |
| File size limit | ≤ 240 KB | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Head height≠ differs | 50–69% | 71–80% (32–36 mm) |
| Background | Plain white or off-white background without shadows or foreign objects. | White or light uniform background. |
| Glasses | Glasses prohibited, except for rare medical exceptions. | Glasses prohibited, except for rare medical exceptions. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Strictly full face, no tilt or rotation. | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. |
| Lighting / shadows | Even light, no shadows, reflections, or digital alterations to appearance. | No retouching or digital enhancement. |
| Attire | Ordinary everyday clothing; uniforms not permitted, except daily religious dress. | Clothing must not blend into the background; face and shoulder line must be clearly defined. |
| Authority | U.S. Department of State | Department of Home Affairs (Australia) |
| Last verified | 21 May 2026 | 1 Oct 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for USA and Australia?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while Australia requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Which photo is larger — USA or Australia?
USA uses the larger photo: 51 × 51 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for Australia.
What background colour do USA and Australia require?
USA requires: White or off-white. Australia requires: White or light. A plain white background satisfies both.