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U.S. Citizenship Photo Size and Requirements

When USCIS asks for passport-style photos, they must meet strict specifications.

Photo Size

• 2 inches by 2 inches (51 mm x 51 mm)
• Square format

Head Size and Position

• Head height: between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches (25 mm to 35 mm)
• Face centered in the frame
• Eyes positioned roughly in the middle

Background

• Plain white or off-white
• No shadows, patterns, or objects
• No visible lines or textures

Stand a few feet away from the background to avoid shadows.

Image Quality

Your photo should be:

• In color
• Sharp and in focus
• Properly lit (not too dark or too bright)
• True to your natural skin tone
• Recent and clearly recognizable

Avoid blurry, pixelated, or damaged photos.

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly
• Keep your head straight
• Neutral expression (no smiling with teeth)
• Eyes open and visible
• Mouth closed

Glasses

Remove all glasses, including prescription lenses, unless medically necessary.

Head Coverings

Head coverings are only allowed for religious or medical reasons.

If worn:

• Your full face must be visible
• No shadows should be cast
• Nothing should cover facial features

Clothing

Wear everyday clothing.

Avoid:

• Uniforms or costume-like clothing
• Camouflage
• Headphones or accessories covering the face

Jewelry is fine as long as it doesn’t hide facial features.

Printed Citizenship Photo Requirements

If you need to submit printed photos, follow these guidelines:

• Print on thin, glossy photo paper
• Do not mount or retouch the photo
• Keep the exact 2×2 size

Avoid:

• Regular printer paper
• Folding or stapling photos
• Taping or gluing photos
• Printing with “fit to page”
• Submitting damaged or creased photos

Digital Citizenship Photos

Submitting your application online doesn’t always mean you need to upload a photo.

Only upload a photo if:

• The system specifically asks for it
• Your checklist includes it
• USCIS sends a request

Always follow the exact file requirements shown in your USCIS account.

Avoid Editing or Altering Photos

Your photo must reflect your real appearance.

Do not use:

• Filters or beauty apps
• Skin smoothing or color adjustments
• Face reshaping or editing

Create a U.S. Citizenship Photo

Use the passport photo tool  if your application requires passport-style photos.

Start with a clear, original image taken against a proper background.

The passport photo tool helps you crop and format the photo correctly.

Common Reasons Photos Get Rejected

Photos are often rejected for:

• Incorrect size
• Wrong head position
• Poor lighting or shadows
• Blurry or low-quality images
• Non-white background
• Wearing glasses
• Incorrect printing size
• Damaged prints

Review your photo carefully before submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need passport photos for N-400?

Most applicants inside the U.S. don’t need to submit photos unless USCIS asks for them.

Applicants outside the U.S. usually need to submit two photos.

How many photos are required?

Typically:

• N-400 (outside U.S.): 2 photos
• N-600 (outside U.S.): 2 photos
• N-600K: 2 photos of the child

Is the size the same as a passport photo?

Yes. The standard size is 2×2 inches with the same head positioning rules.

Can I take the photo with my phone?

Yes, as long as the image is clear, properly lit, and not edited.

Can I smile?

A neutral expression is recommended.

Can I wear glasses?

No, unless medically required.

Do I need to upload a photo for online filing?

Only if USCIS specifically asks for it.

Should photos be glossy or matte?

Follow USCIS instructions. Most forms require glossy photo paper.

Can I reuse an old photo?

Only if it still reflects your current appearance and meets all requirements.

Official Information Sources

Requirements can change. Review the latest official information before filing:

• USCIS Form N-400: Application for Naturalization
  Download the official Form N-400 instructions
• USCIS Form N-600: Application for Certificate of Citizenship
  Download the official Form N-600 instructions
• USCIS Form N-600K: Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate
  Download the official Form N-600K instructions
• U.S. Department of State Passport-Photo Requirements