New photo policy strengthens identity verification and combats immigration fraud

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced new guidelines that strengthen identity verification in immigration procedures. As of December 12, 2025, photographs used to issue immigration documents may not be more than three years old. This measure aims to increase national security and reduce identity fraud.

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With immediate application, the USCIS Policy Manual establishes that only photographs taken within the three years prior to submitting a form may be reused. Likewise, photos submitted by applicants themselves will no longer be accepted. Only images captured by USCIS or authorized entities will be used, ensuring that each photo is recent, accurate, and reliable—essential elements to prevent identity theft and other fraud.

USCIS explained that rigorous security controls and background checks are pillars of the integrity of the immigration system.

The policy update aligns with the Department of Homeland Security’s priorities to modernize investigation processes and close vulnerabilities in identity documents. It is also clarified that certain forms will require a new photograph regardless of when the last one was taken. Among them are Form I-90 (Green Card replacement), Form I-485 (adjustment of status), Form N-400 (naturalization), and Form N-600 (certificate of citizenship).

From: https://www.uscis.gov/es/noticias/alertas/nueva-politica-de-fotos-ayuda-a-prevenir-el-fraude-de-inmigracion-por-medio-de-una-verificacion-de

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