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USA vs Philippines visa photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of visa photo requirements for USA and Philippines, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
USA and Philippines use the same photo dimensions for this document. The other specifications (head-height, background, glasses) may still differ — see below.
Can you use the same photo for both?
Usually not. Both documents use 51 × 51 mm, but the background requirements differ — USA: White or off-white; Philippines: White. A photo prepared for one may 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 | Philippines |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 51 × 51 mm | 51 × 51 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600×600 px | 600×600 px |
| Head height | 50–69% | 50–69% |
| Background | Plain white or off-white background without shadows or foreign objects. | Strictly 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. | Shadows on the face and background not permitted. |
| Attire | Ordinary everyday clothing; uniforms not permitted, except daily religious dress. | Neutral clothing, shoulders visible, without uniform or distracting accessories. |
| Authority | U.S. Department of State | Philippine Consulate General Honolulu |
| Verification | Official — exact | Official — exact |
| Last verified | 2026-05-21 | 2026-08-19 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for USA and Philippines?
Usually not. Both documents use 51 × 51 mm, but the background requirements differ — USA: White or off-white; Philippines: White. A photo prepared for one may be rejected by the other.
Which photo is larger — USA or Philippines?
Neither — both countries use the same 51 × 51 mm photo for this document.
What background colour do USA and Philippines require?
USA requires: White or off-white. Philippines requires: White.