U.S. Green Card Application and Photo Requirements

U.S. Green Card Application Process

A Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) allows non-U.S. citizens to live and work permanently in the United States. The application process varies depending on the eligibility category, but most applicants go through Adjustment of Status (if already in the U.S.) or Consular Processing (if applying from abroad).

Steps to Apply for a Green Card

1. Determine Your Eligibility

You may apply for a Green Card through various categories, including:

✔ Family sponsorship (spouse, parent, child, or sibling of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident).
✔ Employment-based sponsorship (skilled workers, investors, or special workers).
✔ Diversity Visa Lottery Program (for applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S.).
✔ Asylum or refugee status (after one year of being granted asylum or refugee status).

2. File the Appropriate Forms

• If applying from within the U.S.: Submit Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
• If applying from outside the U.S.: The sponsoring family member or employer must file Form I-130 (for family-based applications) or Form I-140 (for employment-based applications), followed by Consular Processing through a U.S. embassy.

3. Pay the Required Fees

• The standard I-485 filing fee varies based on age and application type (check the latest fees on the USCIS website).
• Additional fees may apply for biometrics, medical exams, and work/travel permits.

4. Attend a Biometrics Appointment

• Applicants must visit a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) to provide fingerprints, a photo, and a signature for background checks.

5. Attend an Interview (If Required)

• Some applicants must attend an interview at a USCIS office or U.S. embassy/consulate for final processing.

6. Track Your Application Status

• Use the USCIS Case Status Online tool to track progress.
• Processing times vary depending on the application type and country of origin.

U.S. Green Card Photo Requirements

To avoid delays, Green Card applicants must submit a photo that meets strict USCIS requirements.

General Photo Requirements

✅ Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
✅ Resolution: At least 600 x 600 pixels for digital submissions.
✅ Color: Full color; black and white photos are not accepted.
✅ Background: Plain white or off-white, with no shadows.
✅ Expression: Neutral facial expression, with eyes open and mouth closed.
✅ Head Position: Facing the camera directly, with the full head and shoulders visible.
✅ Clothing: No uniforms; casual clothing is acceptable. Religious attire is allowed if worn daily.

Restrictions

🚫 No selfies or digitally altered photos.
🚫 No glasses (unless medically necessary, with a doctor’s note).
🚫 No shadows, glare, or overexposure.
🚫 No hats or head coverings (except for religious or medical reasons).
🚫 No facial modifications through digital enhancements.

Printing & Submission Guidelines

• Print photos on high-quality matte or glossy photo paper.
• Avoid filters or digital enhancements.
• The head must be between 1 - 1 3/8 inches (25 - 35 mm) from the chin to the top of the head.
• Digital submissions must comply with USCIS specifications.

By ensuring that both the application and photo meet official USCIS standards, applicants can avoid unnecessary delays. For the latest updates and full guidelines, always refer to the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.