U.S. Residence Permit Photo

Your Photograph in the U.S. Permanent Residence Record

The Permanent Resident Card, commonly called a Green Card, is the relevant residence identity document for many permanent residents of the United States. Its photograph is associated with a USCIS record. That makes it important to distinguish a card replacement from a first immigration application or a visa interview: each can have its own way of collecting the image.

For replacement cards, Form I-90 instructions explain that USCIS may request an interview or biometrics, including a photograph, fingerprints and a signature. The appointment notice tells you what collection step is required. Keep that notice with the identity documents requested for your case rather than assuming that a previously prepared passport print is the only photograph involved.

A clear portrait supports recognition of the cardholder. The photo requirements below and our facial expression and photo quality guides help explain what makes an identification photograph usable. When an image is captured at an appointment, the staff member directs the framing; when your form separately requests a file, follow that request’s specifications.

If your route begins with an immigrant visa abroad, use the embassy and consulate directory to locate the relevant U.S. representation and consult its instructions. The visa finder can support initial travel research, but it does not determine residence eligibility or replace USCIS guidance. Keeping the visa stage and the residence-card stage distinct helps you provide the photograph requested at each point.