Kristen Hargraves

For an American green card photo, the most important requirement is that you attach a photo of yourself, your spouse and/or children, along with your visa number. The photo must be taken within six months of your application and should show your current appearance. Although you don't have to submit a photo if your spouse or child is already a legal resident, it will still count. If you are applying to either a husband-or-wife visa, the photo requirement applies.

A second requirement is that you are at least 18 years old unless you qualify to receive an expedited greencard photo. Please note that this photo requirement does NOT apply to children under the age of sixteen. Some photos must be at least 2 inches by 2 inches. However, these requirements can vary greatly. The United States Visa and Immigration Services website have a list of acceptable photographs. Please make sure you follow the specific requirements for each type of visa.

It is important to keep in mind that it can take a while for your documents to be received after you apply for a greencard photo. The United States authorities will take about three to four months to review your application. Before you begin to submit your photo papers, please remember that if your submitting an application online, it may take up to eight weeks before you receive a response. You may need to wait up to one month if you apply in person.

When you apply for a green card photo, there are some other requirements that you must meet. You may need to have your photo ready. You may be asked to submit a religious statement, or renunciation letter in some cases. This will describe your personal beliefs about your origin country and how you are associated with that country. Your naturalization or citizenship papers will need to be translated into your native language.