US Green Card Photo Requirements | 2×2 Inch Printed Format

The US Green Card (permanent resident card) requires a standard 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) printed photo — the same physical format as a US passport or visa photo. This guide covers the photo requirements for Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), Form I-90 (Renewal), and Form I-751 (Removal of Conditions). You can also check your Green Card photo or view the US Green Card photo specs.

Green Card photo specifications at a glance

How to create your Green Card photo step by step

• 1

  Set up a plain white background

  Green Card photos require a plain white background — not off-white, cream, or grey. Use a white wall or tape a large sheet of white paper behind you.

  • White is mandatory — other light colours are not accepted
  • Stand 50 cm (20 in) from the wall to prevent your shadow falling on it
  • Remove all objects and furniture visible behind you
  • No patterns, textures, or gradients in the background
• 2

  Get the lighting right

  Even, shadow-free lighting is essential. Shadows on the face or background are a common reason Green Card photos are rejected.

  • Face a large window for natural, diffused daylight
  • Never stand with a window behind you
  • Avoid direct sunlight — it causes harsh shadows
  • No flash — it creates uneven lighting and red-eye
  • If you are indoors, use two lamps at 45° on either side of you.
• 3

  Position your head and expression

  Green Card photos have strict face requirements. Your face must be centred and you must have a neutral expression with your mouth closed.

  • Look straight at the camera — no tilting or turning the head
  • Neutral expression: mouth closed, face relaxed, no smiling
  • Eyes must be fully open and clearly visible
  • Remove glasses — glasses are not permitted in Green Card photos
  • No headwear unless worn daily for religious reasons
  • Hair should not cover your face or eyes
• 4

  Take and select the best shot

  Use the rear camera of your phone and take several shots. Choose the sharpest image with even lighting. Your Green Card photo must be recent — taken within the last 6 months.

  • Use the rear camera. It produces better quality than the front camera.
  • Keep 50–60 cm (20–24 in) between face and camera
  • No digital zoom — move back and crop instead
  • Take 5–10 shots and pick the sharpest
  • Photo must not be older than 6 months
• 5

  Generate your 2×2 inch Green Card photo online

  Open your best shot in idpic.app. Select the US Green Card format. The AI crops your photo to the correct 2×2 inch size, replaces the background if needed, and validates all biometric requirements.

  • No account or sign-up needed
  • Your photos never leave your device
  • Download and print at any photo printing service
  • Same photo specs as US passport and visa

Common reasons for rejection — avoid these

• Using a European 35×45 mm photo instead of 51×51 mm (2×2 in)

• Non-white background (must be plain white)

• Wearing glasses (not permitted since 2016)

• Photo not square — Green Card photos must be 2×2 inches

• Shadows on face or background

• Smiling or showing teeth

• Head coverings (except religious headwear)

• Photo taken more than 6 months ago

Frequently asked questions