India Passport Photo Requirements 2026
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Passport Seva program specify strict photo requirements for Indian passport applications. Here's the complete updated guide.
Size Requirements
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Photo width | 35 mm |
| Photo height | 45 mm |
| Face coverage | 70–80% of the photo |
| Head position | Centred in the photo |
Background Requirements
- Colour: Plain white only
- No shadows on the background
- No patterns, textures, or coloured backgrounds
- Background must be uniform and distinct from the applicant's clothing and hair
Expression and Appearance
- Expression: Neutral — mouth closed
- Eyes: Open, clearly visible, looking directly at the camera
- Glasses: Technically permitted with strict conditions (see below)
- Head position: Straight on — no tilting or turning
- Head coverings: Religious head coverings permitted; full face must be visible
- No sunglasses or tinted lenses
Glasses Policy (India)
India is one of the few countries that still technically permits glasses, but with strict conditions:
- Lenses must be completely clear — no tint, no colour
- No glare or reflection on lenses
- Frames must not cover any part of the eyes or eyebrows
- No thick or coloured frames
In practice, passport application centres frequently reject photos with glasses. Removing glasses is strongly recommended to avoid any risk of rejection.
Paper and Print Requirements
India specifies matte (non-glossy) paper — this is explicitly stated in Passport Seva guidelines. This is different from many other countries which accept both matte and glossy.
- Print on matte photo paper — not glossy
- High quality print — no fading, no streaks
- Printed within the last 6 months
Digital Photo (Passport Seva Portal)
For online applications via passportindia.gov.in:
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Format | JPEG (.jpg) |
| Minimum file size | 10 KB |
| Maximum file size | 500 KB |
| Dimensions | Should match 35×45 mm proportions |
| Colour | Full colour |
How Many Photos Are Required?
- Standard passport application: 2 photos
- Some PSK (Passport Seva Kendra) offices may request additional photos — bring extras
Children's Passport Photos
Same 35×45 mm size requirement. Child photographed alone — no adults visible. Indian passports for minors under 18 are valid for 5 years.
Visa Photo vs Passport Photo (India)
Indian visa photos for foreign nationals applying for an Indian visa typically follow the same 35×45 mm white-background standard. Always verify with the specific Indian consulate or visa application centre.
Common Rejection Reasons (India)
- Glossy paper — must be matte
- Glasses with glare or tint — even slight tint causes rejection
- Shadows on face or background
- Coloured or patterned background — must be plain white
- Face too small — must occupy 70–80% of photo area
- Smile or unusual expression — neutral only
- Head tilt — must face directly forward
Using Our Tool for Indian Passport Photos
Select "India" and "Passport" in our tool. You'll get a compliant 35×45 mm photo with a white background. Download a print-ready sheet and print on matte photo paper before submission.