USCIS Policy Update on Self-Submitted Photos

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a policy update on December 12^th, 2025 introducing enhanced photo and identity verification procedures for certain immigration benefit applications, including Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), which is used for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

• Some OPT applicants may receive a biometrics appointment notice from USCIS after submitting Form I-765.
• USCIS may require applicants to attend a Biometric Services Appointment (BSA) at a local Application Support Center (ASC).
• Applicants must attend the appointment if scheduled. Failure to appear could delay or negatively impact the application.
• Processing times may increase if biometrics are required.
• Until USCIS instructions change for Form I-765, students applying for OPT should still include passport-style photos at the time of filing and then attend the biometrics appointment if scheduled so USCIS can take an official photo.

Students should carefully monitor:

• Their USCIS online account
• Their email (including spam/junk folders)
• Mail sent to the address listed on Form I-765

ISSS will continue to monitor USCIS guidance and update this page as more information becomes available.

If you have questions, please contact our office or schedule an advising appointment.