Our photos are compliant and accepted for every type of document, worldwide. ICAO 9303 compliant.
India Passport Photo Requirements · MEA / Passport Seva
India Passport Photo Requirements — 51×51 mm, White Background
Official India passport photo requirements from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Passport Seva Kendra: 51×51 mm (2×2 in), plain white background, neutral expression. Full spec below, plus a tool to generate a compliant photo in 30 seconds.
Il tuo selfie→ICAO compliant
Free preview · ICAO 9303 · digital file + printable sheet with 6 photos
Where these requirements apply
New Indian passport
First-time adult and child passport applications via Passport Seva or a PSK.
Tatkal / re-issue passport
Same 51×51 mm white-background photo used for fast-track re-issue.
Passport Seva online application
Digital JPEG accepted by the online Passport Seva photo upload.
OCI card & visa applications
OCI, Indian visa and most visas for Indian nationals share the 2×2 inch format.
Official MEA / Passport Seva specs
Photo size51 × 51 mm (2 × 2 in)
Head coverage70–80% of frame height, centered
Digital pixelsMinimum 300 × 300 px, up to 2 MB JPEG
Resolution300 DPI minimum for print
BackgroundPlain white, uniform, no shadow
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, both eyes open
GlassesAllowed if transparent, non-reflective, eyes visible
Head coveringsOnly for religious reasons, face fully visible
Age of photoTaken within the last 6 months
File formatJPEG colour, no filters or effects
Get a compliant Indian passport photo in 30 seconds
Take a selfie, our AI applies every Passport Seva rule automatically. Digital + printable sheet for €5.90.
Free preview. You only pay if you're satisfied.
Frequently asked questions
What is the size of an Indian passport photo?+
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) requires a 51×51 mm (2×2 inch) square colour photo, taken against a plain white background. The same size is used for the Tatkal passport application.
What background is required for an Indian passport photo?+
A plain, uniform white background with no pattern, shadow or object behind the head. Off-white and light cream are also accepted but pure white is the safest choice.
Can I smile or wear glasses in an Indian passport photo?+
A neutral or slightly closed-mouth expression is required. Glasses are allowed only if they are transparent, non-reflective, and both eyes are clearly visible. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are always rejected.
Do I need the same photo for Passport Seva online application?+
Yes. The online Passport Seva portal accepts a JPEG of the 51×51 mm photo, minimum 300 DPI, file size below 2 MB. Our tool exports a file that meets all three requirements.
Does this work for a child's Indian passport photo?+
Yes. Children below 5 years get a 5-year passport with the same 51×51 mm photo. Expression rules are relaxed for infants; the tool handles them automatically.
Is this valid for Indian visa applications?+
Indian visa photo requirements match passport requirements for most nationalities (2×2 inch, white background). Always check the destination consulate's page — for example US visa applications require the same 2×2 in format.
