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USA vs Thailand visa photo: 51 × 51 mm vs 40 × 60 mm
USA: 51 × 51 mm. Thailand: 40 × 60 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 Thailand requires 40 × 60 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 Thailand requires 40 × 60 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 | Thailand |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size≠ differs | 51 × 51 mm | 40 × 60 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600 × 600 px | The authority does not publish this detail |
| File size limit | ≤ 240 KB | ≤ 3 MB |
| Head height≠ differs | 50–69% | 70–80% |
| Background | Plain white or off-white background without shadows or foreign objects. | Plain white background. |
| Glasses | Glasses prohibited, except for rare medical exceptions. | According to the consulate, glasses (including ordinary prescription glasses) are not allowed; sunglasses are also forbidden. |
| 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. | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Pose | Strictly full face, no tilt or rotation. | Full face, looking directly into the camera, head and shoulders fully visible. |
| Lighting / shadows | Even light, no shadows, reflections, or digital alterations to appearance. | Shadows, overexposure, and reflections not permitted. |
| Attire | Ordinary everyday clothing; uniforms not permitted, except daily religious dress. | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Authority | U.S. Department of State | Royal Thai Embassy London / MFA Thailand |
| Last verified | 21 May 2026 | 21 May 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for USA and Thailand?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while Thailand requires 40 × 60 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Which photo is larger — USA or Thailand?
USA uses the larger photo: 51 × 51 mm versus 40 × 60 mm for Thailand.
What background colour do USA and Thailand require?
USA requires: White or off-white. Thailand requires: Plain white. A plain white background satisfies both.