How to compress your image
- Pick a limit, or type the exact KB your form asks for.
- Choose JPG (works everywhere) or WebP.
- Add your image, or up to 30 at once. ReadyFile finds the best quality under the limit for each.
- Drag the slider over the preview to compare with your original, or zoom to actual size.
- Check the ticks, then save the file. Several images save together as a ZIP.
Which limit do I need?
Use the number in your form or notice. Common limits are 20, 50, 100 and 200 KB. Some forms also set a minimum, for example “20 to 50 KB”. Put that in the minimum field and ReadyFile keeps the file above it.
If your form also asks for exact pixels, such as a passport-style photo, use a tool with that preset instead. The US visa photo tool, for example, makes a 600 × 600 photo under the official 240 KB limit.
Tips for small limits
- Crop out what the form doesn’t need before you start. Fewer pixels means better quality at the same KB.
- Plain backgrounds compress far better than busy ones.
- Under about 30 KB, a large phone photo will be scaled down. That’s normal, and the result shows the new size.
Questions
Will compressing reduce the quality?
A little, and only as much as needed. ReadyFile tries the highest quality first and lowers it step by step until the file fits. It won't go so low that the picture turns blocky; it makes the picture smaller instead.
Why did my image get smaller in pixels?
Some photos are too detailed to fit a small limit at full size without turning blocky. Then ReadyFile makes the picture smaller, keeps it sharp, and tells you the new size. If your form needs exact pixels as well, use the photo tool with a custom size instead.
Should I save as JPG or WebP?
JPG, unless your form says WebP is accepted. JPG works on almost every portal. WebP files are smaller at the same quality, but many government and exam portals reject them.
Is 1 KB 1,000 or 1,024 bytes?
Portals differ, so we use the stricter reading each way. A maximum counts 1 KB as 1,000 bytes and a minimum as 1,024, so the file passes either.
Can I compress several images at once?
Yes. Pick or drop up to 30 images together. Each one is compressed under your limit, and you save them all in one ZIP. The list shows how much smaller each one got.
How do I know the quality is still good?
Drag the slider over the preview to see your original and the result side by side, then press Zoom to actual size to check real pixels, such as text or a face.
Is my image uploaded?
No. Everything happens in your browser. Your image never leaves your device.
Last reviewed 22 Oct 2026 · How we check specs