What are the USCIS photo requirements for Green Card?

USCIS requires 2×2 inch passport-style photos with white background, taken within the last 30 days, showing your current appearance without glasses. Head height should be 1-1⅜ inches and eyes should be between 1⅛-1⅜ inches from the bottom.

How many photos do I need for Green Card application?

For most USCIS forms (I-485, I-90, I-751), you need to submit 2 identical passport-style photographs. Both photos should be recent, identical, and meet all USCIS specifications.

Can I wear glasses in my Green Card photo?

No, since November 2016, USCIS does not allow glasses in immigration photos except for medical reasons with a signed doctor's statement. Remove all eyeglasses, including prescription glasses and sunglasses.

💳 USCIS Compliant

Green Card Photo Requirements

Create USCIS-compliant 2×2 inch photos for your permanent resident card application. Works for I-485, I-90, I-751, and all immigration forms.

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2 × 2"

USCIS Format

USCIS Forms Requiring This Photo

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Form I-485

Adjustment of Status

Most Common

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Form I-90

Green Card Renewal

Renewal

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Form I-751

Remove Conditions

Marriage-Based

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Form I-130

Family Petition

Sponsor

USCIS Photo Specifications

These requirements apply to all USCIS immigration forms. Photos must reflect your current appearance and be taken within the last 30 days.

Size & Dimensions

Photo Size	2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
Head Height	1" to 1⅜" (25-35mm)
Eye Position	1⅛" to 1⅜" from bottom
Head Coverage	50% to 69% of photo height

Technical Requirements

Background	White or off-white
Paper Type	Thin photo paper (not cardboard)
Recency	Within last 30 days
Quantity	2 identical photos

Critical USCIS Photo Rules

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No Glasses

Remove all eyeglasses. Since Nov 2016, glasses are not allowed unless you have a medical necessity with doctor's note.

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Neutral Expression

Keep a natural, neutral expression with both eyes open. No smiling with teeth showing.

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Recent Photo

Photo must be taken within 30 days of filing and reflect your current appearance.

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Write Name on Back

Lightly write your name and A-number (if any) on the back with pencil.

Why USCIS Rejects Photos

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Photo Too Old

Using a photo older than 30 days, or one that doesn't match your current appearance (different hair color, facial hair, etc.)

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Wrong Size

Photo not exactly 2×2 inches, or head size is too large/small (must be 50-69% of photo height).

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Poor Quality

Blurry, pixelated, over/underexposed photos. Shadows on face or background. Visible editing or filters.

Green Card Photo FAQ

Can I take my Green Card photo at home? ▼

Yes! You can take your photo at home with a smartphone. Make sure you have:

Plain white wall as background
Good natural lighting (face a window)
Camera at eye level, straight-on angle
Someone else to take the photo (no selfies)

Use VisaPicPro to resize and format it to USCIS specifications.

What's the difference between Green Card and passport photo? ▼

Both are 2×2 inches with white background and nearly identical requirements. The main differences:

Passport: Photo must be within 6 months
Green Card: Photo must be within 30 days
Passport: For travel purposes
Green Card: For immigration/residency purposes

The same photo format can work for both if taken recently.

Can I wear a headscarf or religious covering? ▼

Yes, headwear worn for religious purposes is allowed. However:

Your full face must be visible from chin to forehead
The head covering must not cast shadows on your face
Both ears should be visible if possible
Include a signed statement that the headwear is part of recognized religious attire

How should I submit the photos with my application? ▼

For paper applications:

Write your name and A-number (if any) lightly on the back with pencil
Place photos in a small envelope or between cardboard to prevent bending
Don't staple or paper clip photos
Include 2 identical photos unless form specifies otherwise

For online filing, upload a digital version meeting the same specifications.