240KB visa photo limit

Compress visa photo under 240KB

DS-160 upload problems often happen because the image is over the file-size limit. Compression helps, but too much compression can make the face blurry or blocky.

What to compress

Export the final file as a 600 x 600 JPEG, then lower JPEG quality only until the file estimate is under 240KB. Do not repeatedly upload and download from multiple tools, because every pass can reduce sharpness.

Use VisaPacket to crop and compress locally

When compression is not enough

The face becomes visibly soft, blocky, or noisy.
The original photo is already below 600 px on one side.
The photo is dark and compression hides facial detail.
Background shadows or glare remain after compression.

In these cases, retaking the photo is usually safer than forcing the file smaller.

Safe local workflow

Crop to 600 x 600 first.
Export JPEG and check the file estimate.
Lower quality gradually until it is under 240KB.
Review the face at full size before upload.