USCIS Form I-551 Permanent Resident Card Photo Rules
Learn about the official rules for the US green card photo, including current policies on how your picture is taken and what dimensions apply.
Current USCIS Photo Policies
If you are applying for a US green card, you need to know how immigration authorities handle your photo. Current United States Citizenship and Immigration Services policy states that self-submitted photos are no longer accepted[1].
Instead of asking you to provide your own print, USCIS or other authorized entities take the photo directly[1]. For specific filings like Form I-90 and Form I-485, the agency requires the collection of new biometrics, which includes taking a fresh photograph[2].
USCIS says the policy is intended to help prevent immigration fraud through enhanced identity verification[1]. Follow the instructions for your form and appointment.
Official Size and Dimensions
Applicants do not supply the photo used for a Green Card under current USCIS policy[1]. USCIS or another authorized entity takes the photo[1].
The listed USCIS sources do not give applicant photo dimensions or a head-height rule for the Green Card photo.
The cited USCIS sources do not give applicant photo dimensions. USCIS or another authorized entity takes the photo used for the Green Card under current policy[1]. Follow the instructions for your form and appointment.
Background and Lighting
Applicants do not supply the photo used for the Green Card under current USCIS policy[1]. Forms I-90 and I-485 require new biometrics, including a photograph[2].
When you practice taking photos on your own, stand in front of a clean, plain white wall with even lighting. Avoid shadows on your face or behind your head so that your features show clearly.
Good lighting helps avoid dark spots under your chin or nose. Turn off flash if it creates harsh glares, and face a natural light source like a large window for a clear and even glow on your skin.
Facial Expression, Glasses, and Head Coverings
The listed USCIS sources do not specify expression or glasses rules for the captured photo.
The listed USCIS sources do not specify a head-covering rule for the captured photo.
The listed USCIS sources do not specify expression, glasses, or head-covering rules for the captured photo. Follow the instructions for your appointment.
Preparing for Your Biometrics Appointment
If you receive an appointment notice, follow the instructions it provides.
Follow the instructions for your biometrics appointment. The cited sources do not specify clothing rules or appointment check-in timing.
Using the Tool on This Page
Applicants do not supply the photo used for the Green Card under current policy[1]. Forms I-90 and I-485 require new biometrics, including a photograph[2].
You can use the tool above to crop and check your images. It helps you rehearse framing and size your pictures correctly for other needs, even though official green card submissions require agency capture.
Why Photos Get Refused
USCIS does not accept self-submitted photos under the current policy[1]. The listed sources do not specify the lighting, expression, or glasses rules for the photo taken by USCIS or an authorized entity.
USCIS says the policy is intended to help prevent immigration fraud through enhanced identity verification[1].
Common mistakes in general photo preparation include wearing tinted lenses, smiling with teeth showing, or standing in a room with dim or uneven lighting. While the agency captures your green card photo directly, avoiding these errors helps if you need pictures for other documents.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to submit a printed photo for my green card application?
No. Current USCIS policy states that self-submitted photos are no longer accepted, and photos are taken directly by USCIS or authorized entities[1].
Which forms require a new photo through biometrics?
Forms such as Form I-90 and Form I-485 require the collection of new biometrics, which includes taking a fresh photograph[2].
Can I wear glasses in my green card photo?
The listed USCIS sources do not specify a glasses rule for the photo taken by USCIS or an authorized entity.
What is the required background color?
The listed USCIS sources do not specify a background color for the photo taken by USCIS or an authorized entity.
What are the dimensions if a 2x2 inch photo is requested?
Applicants do not supply the photo used for the Green Card under current USCIS policy[1]. The listed sources do not specify a size or head-height rule.