DV photo guide
Baby and child DV photos
Updated . By the DV Lottery Guide editorial team.
DV Lottery Guide is an independent site and is not affiliated with the U.S. government.
A baby or child on a DV entry uses the same photo file as an adult: 600×600 JPEG, 240 KB or smaller. No other person may be in the photo, and the child should look at the camera with eyes open.
What do the instructions say to do?
| Tip from the DV-2026 instructions | What to do |
|---|---|
| Tip 1 | Lay the baby on their back on a plain white or off-white sheet so the head is supported. Keep shadows off the face, including when you photograph from above. |
| Tip 2 | Cover a car seat with a plain white or off-white sheet and photograph the child in the seat so the head is supported. |
What still has to match the adult rules?
- The child is alone in the frame.
- Eyes are open and the face looks toward the camera.
- No eyeglasses. A hearing device that is normally worn may be worn.
- The file is a 600×600 JPEG of 240 KB or less, taken in the last 6 months.
The DV Photo Maker can set the background and the 600×600 file. It does not submit the entry.
Questions
Does a baby use a different pixel size?
No. The same technical rules apply: 600×600 JPEG, 240 KB or smaller, and a plain white or off-white background.
Can a parent hold the baby?
No. The DV-2026 instructions say no other person should be in the photo.
Which children need a photo?
Each child included on the entry needs a photograph with the same technical specifications. You do not need a photo for a spouse or child who is already a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Sources
Photo rules on this page follow the DV-2026 instructions. Separate DV-2027 photo instructions have not been published. Entry is only at dvprogram.state.gov.