Trusted immigration legal services for families, couples, and professionals seeking permanent residency in the United States.
USCIS Green Card Update: New Photo Rules You Must Know Before Filing
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a new photo policy that affects many people applying for a green card and other immigration benefits. This update is effective immediately and changes how USCIS accepts and uses photos for immigration documents.
This update is important for anyone filing for a green card, replacing a green card, or applying for U.S. citizenship.
Below, we explain what changed, who it affects, and what you should do now.
What Did USCIS Change?
1. Photos Must Be Taken Within the Last 3 Years
USCIS will now only use photos that were taken within three years of the date you file your immigration application.
In the past, USCIS sometimes reused much older photos and in some cases, photos taken up to 10 years ago. That is no longer allowed. Under the new rule, older photos cannot be used, even if USCIS already has them on file.
USCIS says this change helps make sure your photo matches your current appearance, which makes it easier to confirm your identity and prevent fraud.
2. Self-Submitted Photos Are No Longer Accepted
USCIS will also no longer accept photos that applicants upload or send in themselves for certain immigration forms.
Instead, USCIS will only use photos that are taken directly by USCIS or by authorized biometric centers. This allows USCIS to control how photos are taken and verified, helping ensure they are accurate and secure.
For many applicants, this means USCIS will collect a new photo during a biometrics appointment.
Why Did USCIS Make This Change?
Announcing this change in an official update to its policy guidance, USCIS says this update is meant to:
- Prevent immigration fraud.
- Prevent identity theft.
- Improve national security.
- Make sure each person is properly identified.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, USCIS allowed flexible rules, including reusing old photos for many years. USCIS now says those flexibilities stayed in place too long and made it harder to confirm a person’s identity.
This new rule is meant to fix that.
Which Applications Does This Affect?
This update affects several important immigration forms, including ones related to green cards.
USCIS specifically listed these forms:
- Form I-485 – Application to Adjust Status (green card application inside the U.S.).
- Form I-90 – Application to Replace a Green Card.
- Form N-400 – Application for U.S. Citizenship.
- Form N-600 – Application for Certificate of Citizenship.
Even if USCIS already has your photo on file, you may still need a new one for these forms.
If you are still unsure which of these applications applies to your situation, you can learn more about the green card process and related filings on our green card services page.
How This Affects Green Card Applicants
If you are applying for a green card or replacing one, here’s what this means for you:
- You should expect to attend a biometric appointment.
- USCIS may take a new photo of you
- Old photos from past applications may not be reused.
- Delays can happen if the photo requirements are not met.
This is especially important for:
- Adjustment of Status applicants (Form I-485).
- People processing a green card renewal or replacing a green card.
- Applicants whose appearance has changed over time
What Should You Do Now?
Here are simple steps to protect your application:
- Do not submit your own photos if not taken by USCIS.
- Attend all biometric appointments scheduled by USCIS.
- File early if possible, in case USCIS needs additional identity verification.
- Do not rely on old applications or old photos.
- If you are unsure, get legal guidance from a green card lawyer before filing.
When Does This Policy Start?
This policy is effective immediately, as of December 12, 2025.
If you file on or after this date, these new photo rules apply to you.
From a Green Card Lawyer’s Perspective
This update may seem small, but it can cause delays or denials if not handled correctly. Many applicants assume USCIS will reuse old information and this is no longer safe to assume.
Making sure your identity documents are handled properly is very important.
Final Recap
- USCIS now requires recent, official photos only.
- Self-submitted photos are no longer accepted.
- Green card applicants are directly affected
- The policy is already in effect
If this update affects your green card filing or timeline, consulting with an experienced green card immigration lawyer can help you avoid mistakes and delays.
This information is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading this page does not create an attorney–client relationship. Immigration laws change frequently, and your situation may require personalized guidance.
Ready to Start Your Green Card Journey?
Get personalized guidance from an experienced green card lawyer.