From September 1, 2025, the Indian Consulate has new rules for passport photos. They want them to be just right, following the rules set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).These changes will make Indian passports safer and easier to use everywhere. So, if you are getting a new passport or renewing your old one, pay close attention to your photo.
What do they want?
A plain white background, a photo size of 630 x 810 pixels, a clear picture of your face with your eyes open, and your head right in the middle – taking up most of the space (80–85%). Make sure the lighting is good too; no shadows or glare are allowed. And please, don’t use any filters or change the photo at all.
We have a few special rules for photos of children and infants to make sure they match their age. For example, parents are welcome to hold their baby during the picture, but please keep your hands out of view. Religious head coverings are allowed, but we must be able to see your full face clearly – from your chin to your forehead, including both sides. If these guidelines aren’t followed, your passport application could be denied, which could cause delays.
Good news for Indian passport seekers in Dubai:
The Indian Consulate is making some changes to make applying for a passport easier for Indians living abroad.To make sure everything goes smoothly, it’s a good idea to get your photos taken by a certified photographer who knows what ICAO standards are. By doing this, the Indian government hopes to make sure the biometric info in passports is correct and that international security rules are followed.
