USCIS Updates Its Rules for Reusing Photos on Immigration Documents

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

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Effective December 12, 2025, USCIS has changed how it decides whether it can reuse a photo you already gave them for your immigration application. This update affects many people who apply for immigration benefits and receive identity documents like work permits or travel documents.

Here’s what you need to know:

What Is a “Reused Photo”?

When you apply for an immigration benefit, USCIS often takes your photo at a biometric services appointment. This usually happens at an Application Support Center.

In the past, USCIS sometimes reused an old photo instead of asking you to come in for a new one. This helped reduce in-person visits, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why Did USCIS Change the Policy?

Under earlier rules, USCIS could reuse old photos. In some cases, the photo on an identity document could be 20+ years old by the time the document expired.

USCIS decided this was not ideal for secure identity documents. So, the agency updated the rules to make sure photos are more recent and accurate.

The New Rule: 3-Year Photo Limit

Under the new policy:

• USCIS can only reuse a photo if it was taken within the last 3 years (36 months)
• The 3-year clock is counted from the date the photo was taken at a biometric services appointment
• The rule applies at the time you file your application.

If the photo USCIS has on file for you is older than 3 years, USCIS will require you to take a new photo.

Which Applications Always Need a New Photo?

Even if your photo is recent, USCIS will not reuse photos for these applications:

• Form N-400 (Naturalization)
• Form N-600 (Certificate of Citizenship)
• Form I-90 (Replace or Renew a Green Card)
• Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
  

For these forms, USCIS will always collect new biometrics, including a new photograph.

Important Things to Know

• USCIS can still ask for a new photo at any time, even if your old photo is less than 3 years old
• USCIS will not use photos you upload yourself
  The old rules about calculating photo age based on document validity are gone
• The new rule is simpler and stricter

When Does This Take Effect?

• The policy is effective immediately
• It applies to applications filed on or after December 12, 2025
• It replaces any older USCIS guidance on photo reuse

Bottom Line

If you filed an immigration application recently:

• Your photo must have been taken within the last 3 years for USCIS to reuse it
• Many common applications will still require a new photo no matter what
• USCIS has the final say on whether a new photo is needed

Remember, if USCIS asks you to attend a biometric appointment, it does not mean something is wrong—it simply means they need updated information.

You can rely on SimpleCitizen to keep you updated on immigration policy changes as they are announced. We’re happy you’re here!

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This is legal information. Nothing in this blog post should be interpreted as legal advice. For legal advice specific to your immigration situation consult with a licensed immigration attorney.