1. Photo dimensions and file format
USCIS requires a 2×2 inch square photo. For digital submissions (such as the USCIS online account or Form I-485 filing through an attorney portal), the photo must be:
- Exactly 600×600 pixels (square format)
- Saved as JPEG with file size between 20 KB and 240 KB
- Minimum resolution: 300 DPI for printed copies
- Color photo only — black and white is not accepted
Our free tool exports a 600×600 JPEG that meets all these digital requirements automatically.
2. Background requirements
The background must be plain white or off-white — no patterns, gradients, shadows, or other people. Natural light near a white wall, or a white bedsheet, can work well. Our background removal tool automatically replaces any background with pure white.
3. Head size and positioning
The head (from top of hair to bottom of chin) must occupy between 50% and 69% of the total image height. The face must be centered and fully visible, with the eyes in the upper third of the frame. Our smart-crop algorithm positions the face to meet this requirement automatically.
4. Lighting and exposure
Lighting must be even, with no harsh shadows on the face or background. Avoid flash directly pointed at the face (causes red-eye and hot spots). Natural soft light or a diffuse indoor light source works best. Do not use heavy filters or photo editing that alters skin tone.
5. Expression and pose
Maintain a neutral expression with both eyes open and looking directly at the camera. Smiling with teeth showing is permitted but not required. The face must be straight (not tilted), and the photo must show the full front view of the head.
6. Glasses and head coverings
Since November 2016, USCIS does not allow glasses in immigration photos, regardless of whether they are prescription or non-prescription. Head coverings are only permitted if worn daily for documented religious reasons, and the face must remain fully visible.
7. Common rejection reasons
- Non-white or patterned background
- Head too small or too large in the frame
- Heavy shadows on face or background
- Glasses present in photo
- Photo older than 6 months
- File too large or too small
- Non-square crop
- Visible digital editing artifacts
8. Tips for taking the photo at home
- Use a modern smartphone camera in portrait mode, standing about 4–5 feet away
- Stand in front of a plain white wall or hang a white sheet behind you
- Face a window for soft, even natural light
- Remove glasses before the shot
- Take several shots and choose the sharpest one
- Use PhotoForUSA to crop, check compliance, and export the correct file