Immigration Fraud Prevention Boosted by New Photo Policy

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has moved to tighten identity verification standards as part of broader efforts to strengthen immigration fraud prevention. In policy guidance released on December 12, 2025, USCIS announced new limits on how photographs are used in the production of immigration documents, citing national security and fraud risks tied to outdated identity images.

Understanding the New Photo Policy

Under the updated USCIS Policy Manual guidance , photographs used to create immigration documents must now have been taken within three years of the date an applicant files a USCIS form. Photos older than three years may no longer be reused for secure immigration documents.

In addition, USCIS will no longer accept self-submitted photographs. Only photos taken directly by USCIS or by other authorised entities may be used. According to the agency, this ensures that images relied upon for identity verification are recent, accurate, and reliable.

Policy Background and Context

USCIS linked the change to lessons learnt during the COVID-19 pandemi c, when temporary flexibilities allowed photographs to be reused for up to 10 years, even when an individual’s appearance had changed significantly. The agency stated that these flexibilities remained in place longer than necessary and weakened its ability to verify identities and conduct proper screening.

Image showing Word Fraud Made of Wooden Letters

The revised photo policy aligns with Department of Homeland Security priorities to modernize screening and vetting processes and address vulnerabilities in identity documentation.

Enforcement and Operational Impact

The updated guidance applies to immigration benefit requests that require secure documents and affects a wide range of applicants across the immigration system. While USCIS may reuse a previously collected photo if it meets the three-year standard, the agency retains discretion to require a new photo whenever necessary to confirm identity.

Certain applications will always require a new photograph, regardless of when the last image was taken. These include:

Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

Form N-400, Application for Naturalisation

Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship

Implications for Immigration Security

By limiting photo reuse and eliminating self-submitted images, USCIS aims to reduce opportunities for identity fraud and improve the integrity of immigration documentation. Updated photographs support more accurate background checks, biometric screening, and fraud detection across multiple immigration benefit categories.

The policy also reflects a broader shift toward stricter vetting standards as USCIS and DHS reassess pandemic-era flexibilities that affected enforcement and adjudication practices.

Key Takeaways

USCIS released the updated photo policy on December 12, 2025.

Photos used for immigration documents must be taken within three years of filing.

Self-submitted photographs are no longer accepted.

COVID-era photo reuse flexibilities of up to 10 years have ended.

Certain immigration forms will always require a new photograph.

The new USCIS photo policy marks a significant step in strengthening immigration fraud prevention and identity verification. By narrowing photo reuse standards and standardizing image collection, the agency is reinforcing its ability to accurately identify applicants and protect the integrity of the U.S. immigration system.