Everything you need to know about US EAD (work permit) photo requirements for Form I-765, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Document Type | Employment Authorization Document (EAD / Form I-765) |
| Photo Size | 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 1 to 1-3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from chin to top of head |
| Background Color | White or off-white |
| Printable | Yes — 2 identical photos required for paper filing |
| Digital for Online Submission | Yes (if filing online) |
| Digital Photo Size | 600 x 600 pixels minimum |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit, is issued by USCIS on Form I-766. To apply for an EAD, you must file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). As part of your application, you may need to provide passport-style photographs that meet USCIS specifications.
Your photograph will appear on the actual EAD card that is mailed to you after your application is approved. Because this card serves as your proof of employment authorization in the United States, it is important that your photo is clear, compliant, and accurately reflects your current appearance.
Glasses are NOT allowed in EAD photos. This policy has been in effect since November 1, 2016 and applies to all USCIS photo submissions, including Form I-765. Even if you wear glasses every day, you must remove them for the photo. The only exception is a signed statement from your doctor explaining a medical reason why you cannot remove them.
The way you submit your Form I-765 application affects how your photo is handled:
Your photograph will appear on the actual Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card (Form I-766) that USCIS mails to you after approval. The EAD card is a credit-card-sized document that you present to employers as proof of your authorization to work in the United States. Because this photo will be on your work permit, it is important that it is clear and professional.
After USCIS approves your Form I-765, your EAD card should be produced within 2 weeks and mailed via USPS Priority Mail. Ensure your mailing address is correct and up to date with USCIS.
Form I-765 covers a wide range of employment authorization categories. Here are some of the most common ones that require a compliant photo:
Source: USCIS — Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant US EAD photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking an EAD-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.
Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. You may have a very slight, natural smile — but no teeth showing and no squinting.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable EAD photos
EAD photos must be exactly 2x2 inches (51x51 mm), the same as a US passport photo. Your head must measure between 1 inch and 1-3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head.
If filing by paper, you need 2 identical printed passport-style photos with your Form I-765. If filing online through your USCIS account, you upload 1 digital photo. Note that USCIS may also take your photo at a biometrics appointment, so printed photos may not always be required with the initial submission.
Yes, EAD photos follow the exact same specifications as US passport photos: 2x2 inches, white or off-white background, color, with the head sized between 1 and 1-3/8 inches from chin to top of head. Both require no glasses and a neutral expression.
Yes, many I-765 eligibility categories support online filing through a USCIS online account. Online filing allows you to upload a digital photo, pay fees, and track your case status. Some categories may still require paper filing — check the USCIS Form I-765 page for your specific eligibility category.
No. Glasses are not allowed in EAD photos. This policy applies to all USCIS photo submissions. The only exception is a signed medical statement from a doctor explaining why you cannot remove your glasses.
Yes, your photograph will appear on the actual Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card (Form I-766) that is mailed to you after approval. This is why it is important to submit a clear, compliant photo — it will be on your work permit card.
The background must be plain white or off-white. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a white wall, don't worry — our tool will automatically replace your background with white.
Yes, you can use the same passport-style photo for both Form I-765 and Form I-485 as long as the photo was taken within the last 6 months and meets all USCIS photo requirements. However, do not reuse photos from a previous application or a different immigration form.
