When it comes to applying for your passport, the first thing that trips most people up is the photo. Following Indian passport photo rules is not optional, it’s the number one reason applications get delayed or rejected. Even if all your paperwork is perfect, a small mistake in your passport photo size for an Indian passport can send your application back. So, let’s go through everything you need to know so you can avoid rejections in 2026.
Why You Can’t Ignore indian passport photo rules
Here’s the thing: the passport office looks at your photo more closely than most people realize. If your picture:
- Has shadows
- Is blurry
- Shows a tilted head
- Or even has the wrong size
it can be enough to get your application rejected. Following Indian passport photo rules ensures smooth processing and saves you from running back and forth.
Passport Photo Size for Indian Passport
The size matters. You might think “it’s just a photo,” but the passport size photo dimensions for Indian passports are very specific. Here’s a quick reference table so you don’t have to guess:
| Photo Type | Dimensions | Notes |
| New Indian Passport | 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) | Head should cover 70-80% of photo |
| Passport Photo for Indian Visa | 35×45 mm | Must be plain white background |
| Child Passport | 2×2 inches | No glasses, face fully visible |
| Older Passport | 51×51 mm | Only for renewals of old passports |
Knowing the new indian passport photo size and visa dimensions prevents common mistakes.
Background and Quality
One of the simplest ways people fail to meet indian passport photo rules is the background. Keep these in mind:
- Must be plain white or off-white—no patterns, textures, or shadows
- The face must be well-lit and clear
- Blurry or pixelated photos are not acceptable
If you follow this, your photo is halfway to approval already.
Head Position and Framing
Now, let’s talk about how your face should appear:
- Head must be straight, looking directly at the camera
- Face should take up 70-80% of the frame
- No hats or hair covering the face
- For infants, try to have both eyes open; if not possible, make sure the face is clear
These small details are all part of indian passport photo rules that the office checks.
Dress and Accessories
You might wonder, “Do I need to wear anything special?”
- Avoid uniforms or clothes that blend with the background
- Religious headwear is fine, but face must be completely visible
- Glasses are discouraged unless medically required; no tinted lenses
This ensures your photo meets passport india photo requirements perfectly.
Digital vs Printed Photos
These days, most applications ask for digital photos. Here’s what you need:
- High-resolution, JPEG format, under 1 MB
- Printed photos should be matte or glossy, clear and bright
- Avoid over-editing, filters, or Photoshop
Following indian passport photo rules ensures the photo works for both online and offline submissions.
Common Mistakes That Get Applications Rejected
Even small mistakes can ruin your application. Watch out for:
- Wrong size: always check passport photo size for indian passport or passport size photo for indian visa
- Shadows or colored backgrounds
- Head tilt or strange expressions
- Glasses or head coverings incorrectly worn
- Old or damaged photos
Stick to indian passport photo rules, and these errors can be avoided completely.
Step-by-Step Checklist
Here’s a quick way to make sure your photo is flawless:
- Measure dimensions carefully: 51×51 mm for passports, 35×45 mm for visas
- Head size: 70-80% of the photo
- Neutral expression: mouth closed, eyes open
- Background: plain white or off-white
- Lighting: no shadows or reflections
- Glasses: avoid if possible
- Digital format: JPEG, correct size
- Print quality: matte/glossy, clear
- Children: follow age-specific rules strictly
- Final review: check against indian passport photo rules
Indian Visa Photo Size
Visa photos are slightly different from passport photos, so don’t mix them up. Here’s the scoop:
- Standard indian visa picture size is 35×45 mm
- White background is mandatory
- Head covering allowed only for religious reasons
- Must be clear and high-resolution
Tips for a Perfect Photo
- Use a professional studio if possible—they know indian passport photo rules inside out
- Natural daylight works best for at-home photos
- Avoid filters or edits
- Make sure your photo is recent, ideally taken within the last six months
| Requirement | Passport | Visa | Notes |
| Size | 51×51 mm | 35×45 mm | Measure carefully |
| Background | White/off-white | White | No shadows or patterns |
| Expression | Neutral | Neutral | Mouth closed, eyes open |
| Head Coverage | 70-80% | 70-80% | Fits frame proportionally |
| Glasses | Avoid | Avoid | Only if necessary |
| Headwear | Allowed religious | Allowed religious | Must not cover face |
| Photo Age | Recent 6 months | Recent 6 months | Shows current look |
Passport Photo for Children
Children’s photos have their own rules:
- No glasses or accessories
- Full face must be visible
- Neutral expression not mandatory for infants
- Dimensions must still follow indian passport photo rules
Conclusion:
Scan printed photos in high-resolution if submitting digitally. Check the file size limits. Make sure digital photo meets all passport india photo requirements. If you follow the indian visa size guidelines, your application should sail through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new indian passport photo size?
The new Indian passport photo size is 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), and the head should cover 70-80% of the photo.
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
Glasses are generally discouraged. If you must, no reflection or tinted lenses.
What background is acceptable?
Plain white or off-white only. Shadows, patterns, or colored backgrounds are rejected.
How recent should the photo be?
Photos should be taken within the last six months for accurate representation.
Are infant photos different?
Yes. Infants may not have a neutral expression, but the face must be fully visible.
Can digital photos be submitted?
Yes. JPEG format under 1 MB, high-resolution.
Common mistakes to avoid?
Wrong size, shadows, tilted head, glasses reflection, or old photos.
Are colored backgrounds allowed?
No, only plain white or off-white backgrounds are acceptable.
Can religious headwear be worn?
Yes, as long as the face is fully visible.
Difference between passport and visa photo sizes?
Passport photos are 51×51 mm, while visa photos are 35×45 mm.