The Trump administration has implemented new strict requirements regarding photographs for immigration documents, affecting millions of people applying for legal status in the USA.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced new requirements for the photographs needed for immigration documents, including for Green Card holders and applicants. These changes, which take effect immediately, are part of a stricter policy that the Trump administration is promoting in its second term, aimed at improving national security. The new rules require that photographs be no older than three years at the time of filing the form, replacing the previous flexibility that allowed the reuse of photographs for up to 10 years.

Additionally, self-submitted photographs are no longer accepted; only those taken by USCIS or authorized entities will be permitted. These changes affect essential forms such as I-90, I-485, N-400, and N-600, and are intended to modernize verification processes, reducing the risks of fraud and identity theft. The policy is in effect and applies to all current and future applications starting already from December 12, 2025.