May 29, 2026 · Country Guide
US Green Card (Permanent Residence) Passport Photo Requirements
Applying for a US green card — whether through adjustment of status, an immigrant visa, or renewal — requires photos that meet specific USCIS standards. The format differs from the international ICAO standard. Here is everything you need to know.
Important: Non-ICAO format
USCIS requires a 2×2 inch (51×51mm) square photo — not the 35×45mm ICAO format used by most other countries. Do not use a standard European or Australian passport photo for a US green card application.
USCIS Photo Specifications at a Glance
Photo size
2×2 inch (51×51mm) — square
Background
White or off-white — plain, no patterns
Recency
Taken within 6 months of application
Glasses
Not permitted (USCIS 2016 rule)
Expression
Neutral, mouth closed
Face size
1–1⅜ inches (25–35mm) chin to top of head
Head position
Straight, facing camera directly
2 identical photos, matte or glossy paper
Which USCIS Forms Require Photos?
USCIS green card photos are required for several different forms depending on how you are applying for or renewing permanent residence status:
Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
Two photos required. Used when adjusting from a non-immigrant visa to permanent resident status inside the United States.
Immigrant Visa Application
Used when applying for an immigrant visa at a US consulate or embassy abroad. The digital photo is uploaded to the CEAC portal.
Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
Two photos required for green card renewal or replacement. Same 2×2 inch specifications apply.
Face and Head Requirements in Detail
Within the 2×2 inch frame, the face must measure between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches (25–35mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head. This means the face should occupy approximately 50–69% of the photo's height.
The head must be centred horizontally and positioned in the upper-centre of the frame with the eyes in the upper half of the photo. The subject must look directly at the camera with a neutral expression and mouth closed. Smiling is not permitted for USCIS submissions.
Head coverings are not permitted unless worn for religious reasons. If worn for religious reasons, the face must remain fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, with both eyes clearly visible.
Print Requirements
Most USCIS paper forms require two identical printed photos submitted with the application package. Photos must be printed on photo-quality paper — either matte or glossy finish. Standard office printer paper is not acceptable.
The photo must not be stapled or attached to the form with paperclips in a way that damages the image. USCIS instructs applicants to write their name and USCIS number (if any) lightly on the back of each photo in pencil, then paper-clip the photos to the front of Form I-485, I-90, or the relevant document.
Digital Submission
USCIS now accepts digital photo uploads for certain forms filed online through the myUSCIS portal. The DS-260 immigrant visa application requires photo upload to the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) portal. For online USCIS forms, the photo must be submitted as a JPEG file and meet the same content requirements as printed photos.
When uploading digitally, ensure the image is at least 600×600 pixels (for a 2×2 inch format at 300 DPI) and saved in the sRGB colour space. Check the specific portal instructions for maximum file size limits.
Comparison: USCIS Green Card vs US Passport vs US Visa
| Specification | Green Card (USCIS) | US Passport | US Visa (DS-160) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 2×2 inch (51×51mm) | 2×2 inch (51×51mm) | 2×2 inch (51×51mm) |
| Background | White or off-white | White or off-white | White or off-white |
| Glasses | Not permitted | Not permitted | Not permitted |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Neutral, mouth closed | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Recency | Within 6 months | Within 6 months | Within 6 months |
| Issuing authority | USCIS | State Department | State Department / Embassy |
All three US photo formats use identical technical specifications. The difference is the submitting authority and the application form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size photo does USCIS require for a green card application?
USCIS requires a 2×2 inch (51×51mm) square photo — not the ICAO 35×45mm format. Using the wrong size will result in application rejection.
Can I wear glasses in a green card photo?
No. Glasses have not been permitted in USCIS photos since 2016. This applies to all types of glasses, including prescription lenses.
How recent does a green card photo need to be?
Within 6 months of submitting the application. Photos older than 6 months may not accurately represent your current appearance.
What is the correct face size in a USCIS green card photo?
The face (chin to top of head) must measure 1 to 1⅜ inches (25–35mm) within the 2×2 inch frame. The face should be centred horizontally.
Can I submit digital photos for USCIS green card applications?
USCIS accepts digital uploads for some online forms. The DS-260 requires a CEAC portal upload. Same content rules apply as for printed photos.
Is the green card photo the same as the US passport photo?
Yes — both use 2×2 inch (51×51mm), white background, no glasses, and a neutral expression. The difference is the submitting authority: USCIS for green cards, State Department for passports.
Requirements may change. Always verify current USCIS photo specifications at uscis.gov before submitting your application. This article is informational only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.
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