B1/B2 visitor visa: photo and application guide
Short business trips, tourism, family visits and medical treatment in the United States for up to 6 months per visit.
Quick answer
2 × 2 inch photo · DS-160 · $185 (non-refundable application fee)
Prepare a 2 × 2 inch (51 × 51 mm) biometric photo on a plain white background. File the DS-160 (online non-immigrant visa application) and pay $185 (non-refundable application fee). Processing time 2–8 weeks standard depending on consulate and visa wait time. Interview: Yes. Since 1 October 2025 an interview is required for almost everyone, including children under 14 and applicants over 79. A B-1/B-2 waiver is possible only when you renew within 12 months of a full-validity visa expiring, are 18 or older, have never been refused, and apply in your country of nationality or residence. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Full name | B1/B2 Business and Tourist Visa |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Short business trips, tourism, family visits and medical treatment in the United States for up to 6 months per visit. |
| Application form | DS-160 (online non-immigrant visa application) |
| Fee | $185 (non-refundable application fee) |
| Processing time | 2–8 weeks standard depending on consulate and visa wait time |
| Interview | Yes. Since 1 October 2025 an interview is required for almost everyone, including children under 14 and applicants over 79. A B-1/B-2 waiver is possible only when you renew within 12 months of a full-validity visa expiring, are 18 or older, have never been refused, and apply in your country of nationality or residence |
| Official portal | US Department of State — B1/B2 visitor visa ↗ |
Photo specification
The B1/B2 visitor visa uses the shared US visa photo standard. The same photo file works for DS-160 upload and the printed copy at the consulate appointment.
| Size | 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) |
|---|---|
| Head height | 1 to 1⅜ inches (22–35 mm) chin to crown — 50% to 69% of the image height |
| Background | plain white or off-white, even illumination |
| Pose | Front-facing, head level, both ears visible when possible |
| Expression | Neutral facial expression, both eyes open (no smile) |
| Glasses | Not allowed (banned since 2016 except medical exemption) |
| Digital file | JPEG, minimum 600 × 600 pixels (1:1 aspect), maximum 240 KB |
What to watch out for with the B1/B2 visitor visa
The B1/B2 is the highest-volume US visa worldwide. Embassy interview slots in high-demand markets (India, Brazil, Mexico) can be booked 6–12 months out. Apply early and submit a sharp digital photo through DS-160 even if you have a confirmed appointment.
Frequently asked questions about the B1/B2 visitor visa
What size photo do I need for a B1/B2 visitor visa?
2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm). The B1/B2 visitor visa uses the same photo specification as all other US consular visas: square format, plain white background, head 1 to 1⅜ inches (22–35 mm) chin to crown — 50% to 69% of the image height.
What form do I file for a B1/B2 visitor visa?
DS-160 (online non-immigrant visa application). The form is filed online; the photo is uploaded as part of the same submission.
How much does the B1/B2 visitor visa cost?
$185 (non-refundable application fee). Photo and document preparation costs are separate.
How long does the B1/B2 visitor visa take to process?
2–8 weeks standard depending on consulate and visa wait time. Plan the photo within the last 6 months but not earlier — a stale photo from before significant appearance change creates trouble at the appointment.
Is the B1/B2 visitor visa interview mandatory?
Yes. Since 1 October 2025 an interview is required for almost everyone, including children under 14 and applicants over 79. A B-1/B-2 waiver is possible only when you renew within 12 months of a full-validity visa expiring, are 18 or older, have never been refused, and apply in your country of nationality or residence. The biometric photo is captured at the interview alongside fingerprints; bring the digital file plus one printed 2 × 2 inch photo.
Other US visa categories
Prepare your B1/B2 visitor visa photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro applies the 2 × 2 inch crop, white background and DS-160-ready file size automatically.