On December 12, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a photo and biometrics update outlining new requirements for how photographs may be submitted and reused for immigration benefit applications. USCIS no longer accepts self-submitted photographs and is limiting when previously taken photos may be reused. USCIS now accepts only photographs taken at an Application Support Center (ASC) during a Biometrics Services Appointment (BSA), or by other USCIS-authorized entities. This guidance is effective immediately and applies to all benefit requests filed on or after December 12, 2025.
USCIS will no longer reuse previously collected photographs or other biometrics for certain immigrant and citizenship applications. For all other benefit requests, including nonimmigrant applications such as Form I-765 (OPT and STEM OPT), USCIS may reuse a previously collected BSA photograph if it is less than three years old at the time of filing, at the discretion of USCIS.
UW students and dependents who file Form I-765 for employment authorizations such as OPT and STEM OPT on or after December 12, 2025, may receive a USCIS notice requiring them to attend a Biometrics Services Appointment at an ASC. Students should follow the instructions in the notice to schedule their appointment.
Until USCIS updates its official application instructions, ISS recommends that students continue to follow the current filing guidance and submit two passport-style photographs with their EAD applications.
If you receive a USCIS notice requesting photographs or a biometric appointment and have questions, please contact International Student Services (ISS).