KB and pixels are different limits.
KB measures encoded bytes. Pixels measure width and height. A 600 × 600 photo can have many file sizes depending on detail, format and compression. Set both limits using your actual application instructions.
Photo tools · local file preparation
Resize Photo in KB
Choose a maximum file size and a minimum pixel size. Preview the result before you download; a smaller file should not silently lose the pixels your application needs.
File size & pixels together
Fit the limit. Keep the pixels.
KB means 1,000 bytes here. The target is a maximum, not an exact padded size. Your original stays unchanged.
Current route: US passport · paper application. Change or review the application →
No upscaling or generated detail. If size and pixel limits conflict, you get an explanation instead of a misleading download.
Start with the right original.
The tool does not reconstruct a face, sharpen missing detail or replace your background. Some applications require an unchanged original: those routes disable compression. A technical fit is not a guarantee of acceptance.
Questions about photo file limits.
Can I make a photo exactly 20 KB?
You can set 20 KB as the maximum. The tool does not pad files with unused bytes to hit an exact number. Here 20 KB means 20,000 bytes.
Will a smaller KB limit change my pixel size?
Only if you allow it. The tool tries encoding quality first and respects your minimum width and height when resizing. If the limits cannot be met together, it explains the conflict.
Why can’t my photo fit 20 KB at 600 × 600?
A detailed image may need more bytes at a usable quality. Increase the file limit if the application allows it or choose a more suitable original. The tool does not silently drop below your minimum pixels.
Can I use this for DS-160 or DV?
Choose that specific route first. Its JPEG, square-pixel and maximum-byte rules stay active. You still need to review appearance, color and the current official requirements.
Can I compress a US online-renewal original?
That original-only route disables recompression and conversion. Keep the original and follow the official upload instructions instead.
Why is PNG sometimes too large?
PNG uses lossless compression and its size may stay high for a photograph. JPEG is often smaller, but only choose a format accepted by your application.
Does changing DPI alone reduce the file enough?
DPI describes print density; it does not replace the actual pixel and byte limits. This tool checks the encoded file rather than trusting a DPI label.
Where is my photo processed?
In this browser. The image is held in memory for the session and is not uploaded to a photo-processing service.