Key differences at a glance
| Parameter | Passport photo | Visa photo |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (common) | 35×45 mm / 2×2 inches | Varies by country (30×40 to 51×51 mm) |
| Background | Almost always white | White or blue (country-dependent) |
| Recency | Within 6 months | Within 3–6 months |
| Number required | Usually 2 | 1–4 depending on embassy |
| Digital format | JPEG, 600×600 px typical | JPEG, varies widely |
Size differences by country
Passport photos follow country-specific standards, while visa photos follow the destination country's rules:
- US visa photo: 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), white background
- Schengen visa: 35×45 mm, white or light grey background
- UK visa: 45×35 mm, white or light grey
- Indian passport: 35×35 mm (square), white background
Always check the specific embassy or consulate requirements. For detailed country breakdowns, see our passport photo sizes by country guide.
Can I use the same photo for both?
Sometimes, but not always. If both require the same dimensions, background colour, and the photo is recent enough, you can reuse it. However, many embassies require separate photos taken specifically for the visa application.
The safest approach is to take a high-resolution photo and then resize it separately for each application's requirements.
How to prepare both efficiently
- Take one high-quality photo at the highest resolution your camera supports.
- Save the original unedited file.
- Use PhotoResizer.in to create passport-size and visa-size versions from the same original.
- Adjust the background colour as needed for each application.