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USA vs Pakistan visa photo: 51 × 51 mm vs 35 × 45 mm
USA: 51 × 51 mm. Pakistan: 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 Pakistan requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document. The digital uploads also differ: USA expects 600 × 600 px, Pakistan expects Minimum 350 × 467 px.
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.
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≠ differs | 51 × 51 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600 × 600 px | Minimum 350 × 467 px |
| File size limit | ≤ 240 KB | ≤ 350 KB |
| File format | The authority does not publish this detail | JPEG / JPG |
| Head height | 50–69% | The authority does not publish this detail |
| 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. | Glasses not permitted. |
| 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. | A head covering of any kind is allowed, as long as the face from chin to forehead and both edges of the face are visible. |
| 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 Interior of Pakistan — Pakistan Online Visa System (NADRA) |
| 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 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. The digital uploads also differ: USA expects 600 × 600 px, Pakistan expects Minimum 350 × 467 px.
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: Plain, one colour. A plain white background satisfies both.