Compare · 
USA · 
Mexico
USA vs Mexico visa photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of visa photo requirements for USA and Mexico, sourced from each issuing authority.
Can you use the same photo for both?
At least one of the two authorities does not publish an exact print size for this document. The digital requirements are on the two linked pages.
01Specs
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 | Mexico |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 51 × 51 mm | The authority does not publish this detail |
| 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 |
| File format | The authority does not publish this detail | Digital photo as requested by consulate route |
| Head height | 50–69% | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Background | Plain white or off-white background without shadows or foreign objects. | Plain white background. |
| Glasses | Glasses prohibited, except for rare medical exceptions. | Glasses prohibited. |
| 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. | Even lighting without shadows on face and background, no red eyes. |
| 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 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico (SRE) and the Mexican consulates |
| Last verified | 21 May 2026 | 1 Oct 2026 |
02Rules
Read each rule set in full
03Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for USA and Mexico?
At least one of the two authorities does not publish an exact print size for this document. The digital requirements are on the two linked pages.
What background colour do USA and Mexico require?
USA requires: White or off-white. Mexico requires: Plain white. A plain white background satisfies both.
04Next