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USA vs Pakistan visa photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of visa photo requirements for USA and Pakistan, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
USA requires 51 × 51 mm while Pakistan requires 35 × 45 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will be rejected by the other.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while Pakistan requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
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 | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 51 × 51 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600×600 px | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| File format | Not specified by the issuing authority | JPEG / JPG |
| Head height | 50–69% | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| Background | Plain white or off-white background without shadows or foreign objects. | Recent photo (max 6 months old), plain background without shadows. |
| Glasses | Glasses prohibited, except for rare medical exceptions. | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinted lenses or strong reflections. |
| 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 | Pakistan Online Visa / NADRA |
| Verification | Official — exact | Official — exact |
| Last verified | 2026-05-21 | 2026-05-17 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for USA and Pakistan?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while Pakistan 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 Pakistan?
USA uses the larger photo: 51 × 51 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for Pakistan.
What background colour do USA and Pakistan require?
USA requires: White or off-white. Pakistan requires: Recent photo (max 6 months old), plain background without shadows.