USCIS No Longer Accepts Photos With Applications

Since December 12, 2025, USCIS captures your photo digitally at your biometric appointment. You no longer need to submit passport-style photos with most benefit applications -- including green cards, EADs, and naturalization.

Jake · Community & Writing, One Dollar Passport Photo · Updated April 15, 2026

Quick Answer

As of December 12, 2025, do not submit photos with Form I-485, I-765, N-400, I-90, or N-600. USCIS now takes your photo at the Application Support Center (ASC) during your biometric appointment. If your printed form instructions say "2 photos," ignore that -- follow the current online guidance at uscis.gov.

What changed and why

On December 12, 2025, USCIS implemented policy alert PA-2025-29, which ended the practice of applicants submitting their own passport-style photos with benefit applications. Instead, USCIS now captures your photo digitally at an Application Support Center (ASC) during your biometric appointment.

The reason: fraud prevention. Self-submitted photos were a vulnerability — USCIS had no way to verify that the person in the photo was the same person who showed up. By capturing photos in person at a controlled facility, USCIS ensures the photo on your documents matches the person who applied.

This applies to all benefit requests filed on or after December 12, 2025.

Which forms are affected

I-485 (Green card) No photos needed -- taken at ASC
I-765 (Employment authorization / EAD) No photos needed -- taken at ASC
N-400 (Naturalization / citizenship) No photos needed -- taken at ASC
I-90 (Green card renewal) No photos needed -- taken at ASC
N-600 (Certificate of citizenship) No photos needed -- taken at ASC
DS-160 (US visa application) Still requires photo upload (State Dept, not USCIS)

DS-160 is different

The DS-160 visa application is run by the State Department, not USCIS. If you’re applying for a US visa, you still need to upload a digital photo. See our DS-160 photo guide for specifications.

”But my form says 2 photos”

Many printed USCIS form instructions still say to include two passport-style photographs. These instructions are outdated. The printed forms have not been updated to reflect PA-2025-29.

Follow the current online instructions at uscis.gov, not the printed form. If you’re filing online, the system won’t ask for photos. If you’re filing by mail, do not include photos — they’ll be discarded.

What happens at your biometric appointment

After USCIS receives your application, you’ll get a biometric appointment notice (Form I-797C) scheduling you at your local ASC. Here’s what to expect:

  • Photo and fingerprints are captured digitally in one visit
  • The appointment takes about 15 minutes
  • Bring your appointment notice and a government-issued photo ID
  • Dress as you normally would — the same passport photo rules apply (no hats, no glasses, neutral expression)

Most applicants receive their ASC appointment notice within 2-4 weeks of filing.

When you WILL still need a passport photo

The USCIS policy change does not affect the State Department, which handles US passports. You will still need a 2x2 inch passport photo when:

Applying for a US passport after getting your green card. Many green card holders apply for a passport after becoming eligible. The passport application (Form DS-11 or DS-82) still requires a physical photo.

Applying for a US passport after naturalization. Once your N-400 is approved and you complete the oath ceremony, you can immediately apply for a US passport. You’ll need a compliant 2x2 photo for that application.

Filing a DS-160 visa application. If you’re applying for a US visa from abroad, the State Department still requires a digital photo upload.

For passport photos, see our US passport photo page for exact specifications, or our DS-160 photo guide for visa applications.

Source

USCIS Policy Alert PA-2025-29, effective December 12, 2025. See uscis.gov/newsroom for the full policy notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need to mail photos with my I-485?

No. As of December 12, 2025, USCIS no longer accepts photos submitted with I-485 (adjustment of status) applications. Your photo will be captured at your ASC biometric appointment.

What if I already included photos in my application?

USCIS will still process your application normally. The photos you sent will simply be discarded. You do not need to take any additional action.

Does this apply to applications filed before December 12, 2025?

No. The policy change (PA-2025-29) only applies to applications filed on or after December 12, 2025. If you filed before that date and included photos, your application was processed under the old rules.

Do I still need a photo for a US visa (DS-160)?

Yes. The DS-160 visa application is managed by the State Department, not USCIS. You still need to upload a digital photo when completing your DS-160. See our <a href='/ds-160-photo/'>DS-160 photo guide</a> for requirements.

Will I need a passport photo after getting my green card?

Yes. When you apply for a US passport -- either after getting your green card or after naturalization -- the State Department requires a 2x2 inch passport photo. This is separate from USCIS and is not affected by the policy change.

What if I never receive a biometric appointment notice?

Most applicants receive an ASC appointment notice (Form I-797C) within 2-4 weeks of filing. If you haven't received one after 60 days, check your case status online at egov.uscis.gov or contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.

Do I need a photo for my green card renewal (I-90)?

No. Like other USCIS benefit applications, I-90 (green card renewal or replacement) no longer requires you to submit photos. Your photo is taken at the ASC appointment.

Need a passport photo after your green card?

After USCIS approval, your next step is often a US passport. The State Department still requires a 2x2 inch photo -- create a compliant one with automatic size and background checking.

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