United States

U.S. Certificate of Citizenship photo (50.8×50.8 mm)

Required size: 50.8×50.8 mm (2×2 in). Your photo is processed on your device.

The issuing authority doesn't publish one photo size for this document, so the studio uses the size most often asked for. Check the current rules with the authority or organisation that issues it before you apply.

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Upload a portrait from your phone or take one with your camera.

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Photo requirements

  • Size: 50.8×50.8 mm (2×2 in)
  • Head size: not set by the authority
  • Background: White, Off-white
  • Privacy: Processed on your device; the photo is not uploaded

Background

Put an accepted colour behind you. This happens on your device.

Download or print

Download a single photo, or a sheet with several copies to print at a photo kiosk.

💡 Printing tip

Save the sheet to your phone or a USB drive and order it at a photo kiosk as a standard 4×6-inch print.

Choose an ordinary photo print, not the passport photo service.

Official specification

Official nameCertificate of Citizenship (Form N-600)
How you hand it inPrinted photo or digital upload
Photo size50.8×50.8 mm (2×2 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)Not set by the authority
BackgroundWhite, Off-white
GlassesTake them off, unless you can’t for medical reasons
Head coveringOnly for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open

U.S. Certificate of Citizenship Photo Requirements

Photo procedures for a U.S. Certificate of Citizenship depend on where you apply. The cited USCIS page says applicants abroad submit two passport-style photos; it does not provide a photo size.

Official Size and Measurements

The cited USCIS page does not set a photo size for a Certificate of Citizenship application. For applicants residing abroad, it calls for two passport-style photographs[1]. A 2×2-inch crop is commonly used for U.S. passport-style photos, but it is not a size specified on that cited page.

The cited page does not set a head-height measurement[1]. If you prepare a copy for personal use, you can center your head in the frame.

When you use our online cropping tool, aim to place your head in the middle of the frame. Leave a small, even amount of space around your shoulders and the top of your head to match typical passport standards.

Where the Photo is Taken

USCIS may take the applicant’s photo at an Application Support Center[1]. Applicants residing abroad submit two passport-style photographs; no separate detailed photo measurements are given on the cited page[1].

If you live inside the United States, you may receive an appointment notice for photo and signature capture at an ASC[1]. Check your official notices carefully to see if you need to attend an in-person appointment for your image capture[1].

If USCIS captures your photo at an Application Support Center, you do not need to bring a printed photo for that capture.

Rules for Children and Minors

Children may apply for a Certificate of Citizenship[1]. A parent or legal guardian may sign the paperwork for a child under the age of 14[1].

USCIS may require an applicant of any age to attend for a photograph[1]. Even very young children may need to visit an Application Support Center if requested by the agency[1].

Photographing babies and toddlers at home can take patience. Lay a plain white or off-white sheet on the floor or in a crib to use as a neutral background. Stand directly above the child or hold the camera steady while someone else gets the child to look toward the lens.

Taking Your Photo at Home

You can use the tool above to crop a copy of your image for personal use. The cited USCIS guidance does not give required dimensions for this application.

Face a bright window to get even natural lighting on your face. Avoid standing under harsh overhead lights that cast dark shadows under your eyes or nose. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture while you look straight ahead.

Keep the camera at your exact eye level. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens to avoid distortion in your facial features. Wear everyday clothing that contrasts with your background.

Preparing and Printing Your Photos

If you reside abroad, you must submit two passport-style photographs[1]. Check the application instructions for how to prepare them.

Follow the photo instructions that apply to your filing location; the cited page does not specify these print dimensions.

If you print a photo for personal use, follow the instructions for your filing location. The cited USCIS page does not specify print dimensions[1].

Avoiding Common Refusals

For applicants residing abroad, USCIS asks for two passport-style photographs[1]. Follow the photo instructions that apply to your filing location.

Remember that if you attend an ASC appointment in the United States, staff will take your official photo on site[1]. You will not need to supply your own printed copies if the agency captures the image during your appointment[1].

The cited USCIS page does not give detailed photo rules. Follow the instructions for your filing location[1].

Frequently asked questions

What is the official photo size for a U.S. Certificate of Citizenship?

The cited USCIS page does not specify a photo size. Applicants residing abroad submit two passport-style photographs[1].

Do children need to submit printed photos?

Children may apply, and a parent or legal guardian may sign for a child under 14[1]. USCIS may require an applicant of any age to attend for a photograph[1].

Where do I submit my photos if I live outside the United States?

Applicants residing abroad submit two passport-style photographs with their application[1].

Will I always need to provide my own photo?

USCIS may take the applicant’s photo at an Application Support Center if you reside in the United States[1].