U.S. Naturalization Application Photo Requirements
Get the correct photo size and format for your U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services application. Follow these official rules to prepare your images properly.
Official Size and Submission Rules
Applicants residing outside the United States must submit two passport-style photographs[1]. The listed sources do not specify a separate universal photo size for Form N-400. The 2×2-inch crop is commonly used for U.S. passport-style photos, but it is not established as an N-400 measurement in these sources.
Applicants in the United States may have their photo taken by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services during biometrics[1][2]. Always confirm the current requirements with the issuing office before you submit your application materials. Check every instruction booklet carefully to see if your specific filing location has unique rules.
Background and Setting Up Your Shot
Applicants abroad must submit two passport-style photographs[1]. Applicants in the United States may have their photo taken during biometrics[1][2]. The listed sources do not specify a separate background color for this application.
When you take a photo at home, face a bright window for even lighting on your face. Keep the camera at eye level and stand about one to one and a half meters away from the lens. Ask someone else to take the picture to avoid distortion from an outstretched arm. Make sure there are no harsh shadows on the wall behind you.
Head Height and Measurements
The head height measurement is not set by the authority[1]. Because the exact distance from your chin to the top of your head is not specified for this form, keep your head centered in the frame. Leave a balanced amount of space around your shoulders and the top of your head.
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the 50.8 by 50.8 millimeter size quickly in your web browser. This helps you line up your picture before you print or save it without sending your private image file to any external server.
Glasses and Headwear Rules
When taking your photo, check the rules for what you wear on your head and face. Headwear is permitted only for religious or medical reasons[1]. Make sure any allowed headwear does not hide your face from your hairline to your chin.
Glasses are unspecified in the official instructions, but it is best to remove them to avoid glare and reflections[1]. Keep your face clearly visible so the issuing office can identify you without trouble. Look directly into the camera lens with a calm expression.
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
If your filing instructions require you to provide a photo, follow the relevant U.S. passport-style photo instructions[1].
The listed N-400 sources do not specify expression or lighting rules beyond requiring passport-style photographs for applicants abroad[1].
Printing and Preparing Your Files
If you live outside the United States, submit two passport-style photographs[1]. The listed source does not specify a 4×6-inch print layout.
Cut the photos carefully along the edges to match the required dimensions using a sharp pair of scissors or a paper cutter. Remember that applicants in the United States may have their photo taken by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services during biometrics[1][2], so check your specific instructions before printing.
Avoiding Common Photo Mistakes
The listed sources do not specify these clothing or pose rules for the N-400 photo. Follow the photo instructions that apply to your filing location[1].
Applicants abroad must submit two passport-style photographs[1]. Follow the photo instructions for your filing location.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for my naturalization application?
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services publishes no single official size, and the studio uses the size most often asked for, which is 50.8 by 50.8 millimeters or 2 by 2 inches[1].
Can I wear glasses in my naturalization photo?
Glasses are unspecified by the authority[1], but removing them is recommended to prevent glare and help make your eyes clearly visible.
Who needs to submit printed photos?
Two passport-style photographs are required for applicants residing outside the United States[1].
Will U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services take my photo for me?
Can I wear a hat in the photo?
Headwear is permitted only for religious or medical reasons, and it must not cover any part of your face[1].