Will your photo pass the DV automated checks?
The checker measures your photo against the green card lottery rules: file format and size, 600 × 600 pixels, background, head proportions and eye line. Your photo stays on your device.
- JPEG only, with a .jpg or .jpeg extension.
- Exactly 600 × 600 pixels.
- 240 KB (240,000 bytes) or less.
- Plain white or off-white background, without objects, patterns or shadows.
- Chin to top of head takes 50–69 % of the frame height. The head is centred and faces the camera.
- The eye line sits 56–69 % of the height above the bottom edge.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check my DV lottery photo?
Upload it here: the checker measures the file and the face geometry right in your browser, lists everything that does not match the rules and explains how to fix it. The photo is never uploaded to a server.
Is the DV lottery the same as the green card lottery?
Yes: "DV lottery", "Diversity Visa" and "green card lottery" are three names for one program. The entry system calls it DV, and the winner receives a green card, an immigrant visa. The photo rules are the same whichever name you use.
What size and format must the photo be?
A square JPEG of exactly 600 × 600 pixels, no larger than 240 kB, in 24-bit colour. PNG, HEIC and WEBP files are not accepted by the entry form.
How large should the head be in the frame?
From the chin to the top of the head: 50–69 % of the frame height, with the eye line 56–69 % above the bottom edge. The head is centred and faces the camera.
Which background does a DV (green card) lottery photo need?
Plain white or off-white, with no objects, patterns or shadows. A grey or coloured wall is rejected, and so is a photo with a shadow behind the head.
Can I retouch or edit the photo?
No. The entry rules forbid retouching, filters and any change to the face, so this service does not edit anything — it only measures and explains what to redo.
Can I wear glasses or a head covering?
No. Glasses have been banned since 2016, even with a medical certificate, and headwear is allowed only for religious reasons and must not cover the face.
How recent must a green card lottery photo be?
The photo must be taken no more than 6 months before the entry. The checker reads the capture date from EXIF and warns when the file is older.
Is this the official DV lottery checker?
No, this is an unofficial helper built on the published requirements. The final decision is always the one made by dvprogram.state.gov when you submit the entry.