India Passport Photo Requirements
Renewing from the US? Indian passports use a different photo size than US passports — here is exactly what Passport Seva and Indian consulates require.
Indian passport photos are 35×45mm — not the US 2×2 inch (51×51mm) format. These are different sizes. A US-format square photo will be rejected by Passport Seva or any Indian consulate.
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Upload any clear photo. We resize to 35×45mm, set white background, and export a JPEG ready for Passport Seva upload or consulate submission.
India Passport Photo Specifications (Passport Seva)
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 35×45mm |
| Pixels at 300 DPI | 413×531 px |
| Background | Plain white |
| Expression | Neutral, relaxed |
| Eyes | Open, front-facing |
| Head coverage | 70–80% of frame |
| Ears | Both visible ideally |
| Glasses | Not permitted |
| Head coverings | Religious only |
| Photo age | Within 6 months |
| Finish | Matte or semi-matte |
| File format (digital) | JPEG |
US Passport Photo vs. Indian Passport Photo
| Detail | 🇺🇸 US Passport | 🇮🇳 Indian Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2×2 in (51×51mm) | 35×45mm |
| Shape | Square | Rectangular portrait |
| Pixels at 300 DPI | 600×600 px | 413×531 px |
| Background | White or off-white | Plain white only |
| Finish | Glossy or matte | Matte or semi-matte |
| Glasses | Not permitted | Not permitted |
| Interchangeable? | ❌ No — different size | — |
OCI Card Photo Requirements
OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card applications use the same photo format as Indian passports:
Tip
How to Get an Indian Passport Photo in the United States
White background, natural light, neutral expression. No glasses. Hair pulled back so both ears are ideally visible. If wearing a religious head covering, ensure the full face from forehead to chin is clearly visible.
Upload to our free tool — it automatically formats to 35×45mm, sets a white background, and exports a JPEG compliant with Passport Seva requirements. Download the JPEG.
Upload the JPEG to the CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart photo app. Print as a standard 4×6 photo (~$0.35). The download includes a print layout with multiple photos on one sheet. Cut out the 35×45mm photo.
For Passport Seva online renewal, upload the JPEG directly to the portal. For in-person consulate applications, bring 2–3 printed 35×45mm photos. Indian consulates are in Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, and Atlanta.
Note
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35×45mm · White background · JPEG for Passport Seva upload or consulate submission
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India Passport Photo FAQ
What size is an Indian passport photo?
Indian passport photos must be 35×45mm (width × height) — approximately 1.38×1.77 inches. This is a rectangular portrait format used across India, the UK, and most of Europe. It is NOT the square US 2×2 inch (51×51mm) format. At 300 DPI, 35×45mm equals 413×531 pixels.
Can I use a US passport photo for an Indian passport?
No. US passport photos are square 2×2 inches (51×51mm). Indian passport photos must be rectangular 35×45mm. These are different sizes — a US-format photo submitted to Passport Seva or an Indian consulate will be rejected. Always prepare a specifically sized 35×45mm photo for Indian passport applications.
What background is required for an Indian passport photo?
Indian passport photos require a plain white background. The background must be uniform with no shadows, textures, or patterns. India updated its requirements to mandate white backgrounds — light blue backgrounds, which were once acceptable, are no longer permitted for current passport applications.
Can I wear glasses in an Indian passport photo?
No. India follows ICAO biometric standards and prohibits glasses in passport photos. All eyewear must be removed. This rule was updated for Indian passports — older passports may show applicants with glasses, but new applications and renewals require glasses-free photos.
What are the OCI card photo requirements?
OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card photos follow the same specifications as Indian passport photos: 35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses, taken within 6 months. The face must be centered with 70–80% coverage. OCI applications processed through Indian consulates in the US require the same 35×45mm format.
How do I get an Indian passport photo in the United States?
US pharmacies only offer the 2×2 inch US format, which is wrong for Indian passports. To get a compliant 35×45mm Indian passport photo, use our free online tool: upload your photo, it automatically resizes to 35×45mm with a white background. Download the JPEG and print at any pharmacy kiosk for ~$0.35. Cut the 35×45mm photo from the 4×6 sheet.
Where are Indian consulates in the United States?
India has its Embassy in Washington D.C. and Consulates General in New York, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, and Atlanta. Each consulate handles passport renewals, new applications, and OCI card services for Indian nationals in their jurisdiction. Check the consulate website for current appointment requirements before visiting.
Can I apply for an Indian passport renewal online from the US?
Yes — Indian nationals in the US can initiate passport renewals online through the Passport Seva portal (passportindia.gov.in). You upload your photo digitally, fill in the application, and then schedule an in-person appointment at the nearest Indian consulate to submit documents and biometrics. The digital photo must meet the same 35×45mm specifications.
Do both ears need to be visible in an Indian passport photo?
Both ears should ideally be visible in an Indian passport photo. While this isn't always strictly enforced, Passport Seva guidelines recommend that both ears are visible and that hair does not obscure the sides of the face. Keeping hair pulled back or behind the ears is the safest approach.