DOS Cable on Photo Quality for NIV Applicants

R 020229Z NOV 01
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO ALL DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR POSTS
SPECIAL EMBASSY PROGRAM
BELGRADE POUCH
DUSHANBE POUCH
NDJAMENA POUCH
PESHAWAR POUCH
LAHORE POUCH
JAKARTA POUCH
SURABAYA POUCH
HQ USINS WASHDC

UNCLAS STATE 190930


INFORM CONSULS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: CVIS, KFRD, CMGT
SUBJECT: Importance of Photo Quality in Visa Processing

1. The quality of photos accepted in the nonimmigrant visa
process has always been an important factor in the quality
and integrity of the final MRV. Currently, the
availability of images of visa applicants to other US
government agencies through the Consolidated Consular
Database and increased use of facial recognition
technologies make photo quality vitally important.
Consular managers are reminded to insist on consistent,
high-quality photographs from visa applicants.

2. Standards for MRV photos are stipulated in 9 FAM
41.113, PN 1.2. This section of the FAM states:

a. The photograph of each visa applicant must be an
unmounted full face photo (taken within the past six
months) 1 1/2 by 1 1/2 inches (either in color or black and
white against a light background), and should be stapled to
Form OF-156 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application). The staples
should be placed as far away as possible from the
applicants face.

b. Sunglasses or other paraphernalia, which would detract
from the face, are not acceptable. A photograph depicting
a person wearing a head covering is permitted, provided
that enough of the face is uncovered so as to establish
identity. A photograph depicting a person wearing a
traditional facemask or veil that conceals portions of the
face and does not permit adequate identification is not
acceptable.

c. Since a separate visa is issued to each qualified
applicant, an individual photo is required in all cases.
Group photos are not acceptable.

3. It is particularly important that the photo be recent
and clearly in focus. It is vital that the background be
light-colored and plain. Photos taken in front of busy,
patterned, or dark backgrounds should not be accepted.

4. A "full face" photo is one in which the applicant is
facing the camera directly. The applicant should not be
looking down or to either side. The face should cover
about 50 percent of the area of the photo.

5. It is permissible to accept slightly larger photos (up
to the 2 inch square called for in the DV lottery
guidelines), which will in any event normally result in
higher quality images.

6. Note that head coverings and hats are only acceptable
due to religious beliefs and even then may not obscure any
portion of the face of the applicant. For the time being,
consular officers may continue to accept photographs which
cover the ears for religious reasons but only if the
applicant objects to exposing the ears. Photos of
military, airline or other personnel wearing hats are not
acceptable. Photographs of applicants wearing tribal or
other headgear not specifically religious in nature is not
acceptable.

7. As the Department gains more experience in working with
facial recognition technology, photo standards required
for visa processing may be changed accordingly. In the
meantime, all consular personnel at all stages in the visa
process must do their best to ensure that current
standards are adhered to.

POWELL