USCIS Immigration Photo Requirements
Official photographic specifications for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services filings — including Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), Form I-130 (Alien Relative), Form I-765 (EAD), Form N-400 (Naturalization), and Form I-90 (Green Card Renewal).
2 × 2 inches
51 × 51 mm
1″ to 1⅜″
50% – 69% of height
2 Identical
Per person filing
Plain White
0 shadows / patterns
Prohibited
Zero exceptions
Paperclip Only
Never staple photos
Meets official Title 8 CFR immigration photo standards
Guarantees 50%–69% chin-to-crown head proportion
Formats for I-485, I-130, I-765, N-400, I-131 & I-90
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USCIS Biometrics & Photo Policy Update (2025–2026)
For domestic I-485 and N-400 filings processed within the United States, USCIS now captures photographs during scheduled Application Support Center (ASC) biometrics appointments.
You still must submit two printed 2×2 inch photos if:
- You are filing Form I-130, Form I-765 (EAD), Form I-131, or Form I-90.
- You are filing any immigration form from outside the United States.
- USCIS issues a formal Request for Evidence (RFE) requesting updated photos.
Form-by-Form USCIS Photo Requirements
Specific submission criteria for each USCIS application type.
| Form Code | Application Name | Photos Required | Instructions & Attachment Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-485 | Adjustment of Status (Green Card) | 2 photos | Requires 2 identical color photos. Lightly write applicant’s full name and A-Number in pencil on back.Paperclip to form (Never staple) |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | 2 per person | Requires 2 identical photos of the petitioner (US citizen/LPR) AND 2 photos of the beneficiary relative.Paperclip separate envelopes |
| I-765 | Employment Authorization (EAD / OPT) | 2 photos | Requires 2 identical photos. Applies to initial, renewal, and replacement work permits.Paperclip in small envelope |
| N-400 | Application for Naturalization (Citizenship) | 2 photos (if filing abroad) | Required when filing from abroad or if requested by USCIS. Domestic ASC biometrics may capture on-site.Paperclip to application |
| I-131 | Travel Document / Advance Parole | 2 photos | Requires 2 identical passport-style photos for Advance Parole or Refugee Travel Documents.Paperclip to form |
| I-90 | Green Card Renewal / Replacement | 2 photos | Requires 2 identical photos for 10-year Green Card renewal or replacement of lost/damaged cards.Paperclip to form |
USCIS Photo Preparation & Submission Rules
Follow these standard procedures to prevent processing delays or RFEs.
1. Never Staple Photos to Forms
Stapling puts holes through biometric regions. Place photos in a small paper or plastic envelope, and paperclip the envelope to the front of your application form.
2. Pencil Labeling on the Back
Lightly print your full legal name and your 9-digit Alien Registration Number (A-Number) in pencil on the back of each photograph. Do not use ballpoint pens.
3. Eyeglasses Strictly Prohibited
Remove all eyeglasses, prescription lenses, reading glasses, and sunglasses before taking the photo. Glare or frame obstruction leads to automatic rejection.
4. Pure White Background Only
Background must be plain white or off-white with zero shadows. Ensure even daylight lighting so no shadow is cast behind the head or under the chin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to common questions regarding USCIS immigration photo submissions.