What USCIS said on December 12, 2025
- "Self-submitted photos will no longer be accepted. Only photos taken by USCIS or other authorized entities will be used."
- Photos used to create documents must be no more than three years old.
- Forms I-90, I-485, N-400 and N-600 need a new photo regardless of when the last one was taken.
- The related policy alert is PA-2025-29: USCIS "will not use or reuse self-submitted photographs."
Why the form still asks for photos
The Form I-765 instructions (edition 08/21/25) and Form I-131 instructions still say to send two identical color passport-style photographs. They were published before the policy. We do not know how USCIS will treat photos sent in with those forms.
Your receipt notice and any biometrics appointment letter are the authority. USCIS may take your photograph at a biometrics appointment at an Application Support Center.
If your form still asks for 2 photos
The I-765 instructions describe the old standard: 2 × 2 inches, white to off-white background, unretouched, glossy thin paper, head height 1 to 1 3/8 inches, name and A-Number printed lightly on the back with pencil or felt pen. Framefare’s 4 × 6 print sheet has six 2 × 2 photos you can cut apart.
Framefare can replace a non-white background, but the State Department prefers original photos, so a real white wall or sheet is the safer route.
Our advice
- Read your form instructions and your latest USCIS notice first.
- If they say USCIS takes the photo, do not buy one.
- If you are still told to send photos, a 2 × 2 print costs a few cents. Use a real white wall.
- Call the USCIS Contact Center when instructions conflict. We are not a law firm and cannot give legal advice.
Common questions
Do I need a passport photo for my green card application?
It depends on the form and on your notices. USCIS has said it will not accept self-submitted photos. Check the current form instructions and your appointment letter.
Does Framefare work for a green card photo?
It makes a 2 × 2 passport-style print sheet. Whether USCIS will accept self-submitted photos for your form is for USCIS to say. Do not buy until you have checked.
What size is a USCIS photo?
2 × 2 inches, head 1 to 1 3/8 inches from top of hair to chin, per the Form I-765 instructions.
What is a biometric services appointment?
A visit to a USCIS Application Support Center where USCIS may take your fingerprints, photograph and signature.
Sources
- New Photo Policy Helps Prevent Immigration Fraud, USCIS (Dec 12, 2025)
- Form I-765 Instructions, USCIS (08/21/25)
- Form I-131 Instructions, USCIS
- NAFSA summary of Policy Alert PA-2025-29
Rules checked October 21, 2026. Framefare is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of State, USCIS or any government agency, and cannot guarantee that your photo is accepted.