India Passport & OCI Photo Requirements
Updated for 2026. Based on Passport Seva and VFS Global guidelines.
Photo specifications
| Print size | 51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 inches) |
| Digital size | 600 x 600 pixels |
| Resolution | 300 DPI |
| Background | Plain white |
| File format | JPEG |
| File size | 10 KB – 500 KB |
| Head height | 25 – 35 mm |
Rules
- Expression: Neutral. Mouth closed, no smile.
- Glasses: Not allowed.
- Eyes: Both eyes must be open and clearly visible.
- Ears: Both ears should be visible. VFS Global and consulate offices enforce this — tie back long hair if needed.
- Forehead: Must be visible. Avoid bangs or fringe.
- Head coverings: Only allowed for religious reasons. Face must be fully visible.
- Background: Plain white. No patterns, shadows, or other objects.
- Lighting: Even, no shadows on face or background.
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months.
Common rejection reasons
- Hair covering ears (frequently flagged at VFS centers)
- Photo dimensions or file size out of range
- Background not pure white
- Shadows on face
- Wearing glasses
- Digital photo appears retouched or filtered
September 2025 rule changes
India tightened passport photo standards in September 2025, adopting stricter ICAO-compliant biometric requirements. Digital uploads must be 630 x 810 pixels for some online portals, with the head occupying 80–85% of the frame. No retouching or filters are accepted. PassportPix produces the standard 600 x 600 format accepted by VFS Global and most consulates.
Official sources
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