FAQ
The most common reasons are an off-white or shadowed background, incorrect pixel dimensions, or a file size outside the 8–14KB range. Run your photo through the Live Validator to see exactly which rule it fails.
Use the Photo Converter with "Auto-whiten background" enabled. It works best when your original photo has a plain, evenly lit backdrop. Busy or shadowed backgrounds may need a retake.
Use the Compress tool and pick the 8–14KB range for applicant photos, or let the Photo Converter handle sizing automatically — it targets the exact official range.
Blur is usually already present in the original scan or photo. Try photographing the bio page in bright, even light without glare, holding the camera steady and directly overhead.
Check that your file is a JPG, PNG, WEBP or HEIC image under 8MB. Files with unsupported extensions, or corrupted images, will be rejected for your security.
No. Uploaded and processed files are kept only temporarily in a private folder tied to your browser session and are automatically deleted after 24 hours.