India Passport Photo Size and Requirements (Applying Abroad)
If you are applying for an Indian passport abroad through VFS Global (for example in the USA), you need a 35 × 45 mm photo on a white background, with your head 32–36 mm from chin to crown. In India, the Passport Seva Kendra takes your photo at the appointment, so you don't need one there.
Upload a photo and Auto Generate sizes it to these rules. Try it free; pay only to download the finished photo.
At a glance
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Background | White |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Print resolution | 300 dpi or more |
Official requirements
- White background
- Head height 32–36 mm (70–80% of photo)
- Eyes open and looking at camera
- Neutral expression, mouth closed
- No glasses
- Taken within last 6 months
- Check your VFS centre's checklist — sizes differ by country
Good to know
- VFS checklists differ by country, and older ones asked for 2 × 2 inches. Check the checklist for the centre you are using.
- Take off your glasses and keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed.
How it works
- Upload a clear, front-facing photo against a plain wall.
- Choose India Passport and press Auto Generate: the photo is cropped and sized to the rules above.
- Review the compliance check, then download the photo and a printable sheet.
Source: services.vfsglobal.com. Last checked 14 October 2026.
The office that issues your passport or visa decides whether to accept a photo. Rules change, so check the official page before you apply.