AI Makes USCIS Photos Online

Online USCIS Passport Photo Handbook

As biometric photos used for quick and easy identification, photos for USCIS have the same requirements as the US passport. However, reviewing the rules specific to USCIS can help you avoid potential barriers when applying for US citizenship. Here are some requirements for USCIS passport photos:

1. The photo should be 2 x 2 in and in color
2. The photo should have been taken within the past 6 months, reflecting your current appearance
3. The photo should have a light (white, off-white) background
4. No shadows or coverings should appear on your face
5. The photo should meet the technical requirements of US passport photos
6. Your head height should be 1.29 in, with the bottom of the photo to the eye line 1.18 in
7. The photo can be submitted online
8. The photo can be printed

USCIS Photo Size and Dimensions

Size and dimension may be a difficult problem when obtaining your USCIS photos. As mentioned above, the photo size should be 2 x 2 in (51 mm x 51 mm), with the head between 1 in and 1 3/8 in (22 mm to 35 mm), or 50% to 69% of the image’s total height from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.

However, there is no need for you to worry about size or dimensions if you purchase our service! We will do the photo cropping for you, ensuring that your photos meet the size requirements of USCIS photos.

Head Position

You are required to face the camera directly, with a full, forward-facing view. Nothing should cover your face in the photo. Your head should be visible, including hair, neck and upper shoulders. If you are not sure whether your photo meets these demands, just use AiPassportPhotos to make adjustments to the head position in the photo. This is a fast, effective way to position your head properly in USCIS photos.

Background

The background for USCIS photos should be a light color like white or off-white. A photo studio might arrange this background for you, but sometimes it is preferable to take photos by yourself and print them in the photo store, saving time and money. AiPassportPhotos’s background remover and changer can do you a big favor, its passport photo software removing and replacing your photo’s background with just a few clicks. 

Clothing

There are no special requirements for USCIS photos, but uniforms or military clothing are not permitted. For your photo to pass compliance you should wear casual, daily clothes that help you look clean and passable, although avoid white shirts that may blend in with your photo’s background.

Accessories

Accessories like hats, caps and glasses should not appear in USCIS passport photos. If you must wear accessories for medical or religious reasons, you should submit a document from your doctor or religious community with your application. Even if you are permitted to wear accessories, you must not cover any part of your face, or your photo will be rejected.

Lighting

Make sure that your face has even lighting, and check whether there are shadows in your photo. Ensure that your photo is not under- or overexposed and that there is a sharp distinction between the background and object.

USCIS Photo Quality

Having your USCIS photo rejected may be time-consuming and costly, so you should carefully review your photo before submission. Ensure that your photo is printed on matte or glossy high-quality photo paper rather than damaged or worn-out paper. You can also seek help from photo stores after downloading the digital version of your photo.

Say No to Common Mistakes When Taking USCIS Photos

Photos may be a key factor in your application for US citizenship, so double check for the following common mistakes you may make when taking USCIS photos:

1. Over- or underexposure
2. Photos are not recent (i.e., have not been taken in the last six months)
3. You are dressed up and not showing your actual appearance (i.e., wearing too much make-up)
4. The photo is of inferior quality
5. Your head is in the wrong position
6. The photo has an unsuitable background color
7. You are looking sideways
8. You are wearing accessories that cover your face
9. You are smiling and showing your teeth

Where Can I Print USCIS Photos?

With AiPassportPhotos you can get a printable template for your USCIS photo sent to your email, allowing you to print your photo out at any local pharmacy or photocopy store.