India Passport & Visa Photo Requirements

Photo size and dimensions

Indian passport and visa photos use the standard 35×45 mm format. PAN card uses a smaller 25×35 mm — ensure you select the correct document type.

• Passport / Visa: 35×45 mm
• PAN Card: 25×35 mm
• Resolution: 300 DPI minimum
• Format: JPEG, plain background, no borders.

Head height and position

Head size in the frame is strictly checked. Incorrect head size is a common rejection reason.

• Head height (35×45 mm): From the top of the head to the bottom of the chin should be between 25 mm and 35 mm in the photo. Face should be centered and occupy a large part of the frame.
• Face position: Face the camera directly. Both ears visible. No tilt.
• Eyes: Open, clearly visible, looking at the camera.

Glasses

Glasses are generally allowed for Indian passport and visa photos, provided:

• There is no glare or reflection on the lenses — eyes must be clearly visible.
• Frames do not cover the eyes or cast shadows on the face.
• If in doubt, or if you have strong reflections, it is safer to remove glasses to avoid rejection.

Some application channels or centers may prefer no glasses; check the latest Passport Seva or visa portal guidelines.

Background

Background must be white or light grey, plain, with no patterns, shadows, or other people. White is preferred for passport; light grey is often accepted for visa. Avoid colored or textured backgrounds.

Expression and appearance

• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed. No smile.
• Headwear: No caps or hats. Religious headwear (e.g. turban, hijab) is allowed if the face is fully visible from forehead to chin and both ears are visible where possible; no shadows on the face.
• Recency: Photo should be recent (within 6 months) and reflect current appearance.

Documents that use these sizes

35×45 mm: India Passport, India Visa (e.g. indianvisaonline.gov.in). 25×35 mm: India PAN Card. Always confirm size on the official application page.

Common mistakes that cause rejection

Avoid these — PixID checks for them automatically when you create your photo.

• Wrong size (e.g. 2×2 or 33×48 instead of 35×45 for passport)
• Head too small or too large (outside 25–35 mm for 35×45)
• Glare on glasses obscuring eyes
• Smiling or non-neutral expression
• Shadows on face or background
• Colored or patterned background

Official sources: passportindia.gov.in, indianvisaonline.gov.in. Verify latest requirements.