US Green Card (USCIS) photo requirements
USCIS forms such as the I-485 ask for two identical colour photos, 2 × 2 in, on thin glossy paper, unmounted and unretouched. USCIS’s Policy Manual says the photos must have been taken within 30 days of filing, and the head must be bare unless your religion requires a covering.
| Size | 2 × 2 in (50.8 × 50.8 mm) |
|---|---|
| Head | 25.4–34.9 mm (1 to 1⅜ in) from the chin to the top of the head |
| Background | A white to off-white background |
| Glasses | Take glasses off: USCIS follows the State Department’s photo rules. |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open, looking straight at the camera |
| Prints needed | 2 |
| Editing | “Photos must be unmounted and unretouched.” |
Source: uscis.gov (2026-11-09).
Taking a US Green Card (USCIS) photo
Stand in front of a white to off-white background. Take your glasses off. Keep a neutral face with your mouth closed.
Printing Green Card photos
2 fit on a 4×6 print, 6 on a 5×7, 15 on A4 and 12 on US Letter; the office wants 2.
Questions
What size is a US Green Card (USCIS) photo?
2 × 2 in (50.8 × 50.8 mm), with the head 25.4–34.9 mm from the chin to the top of the head.
Can I wear glasses in a US Green Card (USCIS) photo?
Take glasses off: USCIS follows the State Department’s photo rules.
Can I change the background?
The rules say: “Photos must be unmounted and unretouched.”
Other photos
- US passport 2×2 in
- US visa (DS-160) 2×2 in
- US DV lottery (Green Card lottery) 600×600 px
- Texas driver licence (renewing by mail) 2×2 in
- Every passport and visa photo