Passport Photo Size in India
Need to prepare a passport-size photograph for an Indian application? Check the commonly used 35 × 45 mm photo size, digital pixel dimensions, background requirements, and practical tips for preparing a photo for online submission.
Quick Answer
The standard Indian passport photo size is 35 × 45 mm (≈630 × 810 pixels), with a 7:9 aspect ratio, plain white background, and colour print. Digital uploads should follow the exact pixel/file-size limits given by the specific application portal.
Resize Your Photo Now →What Is the Standard Passport Photo Size in India?
The commonly used passport photograph size in India is:
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Width | 35 mm |
| Height | 45 mm |
| Aspect Ratio | 7:9 |
| Digital Dimensions | 630 × 810 pixels (common digital equivalent) |
| Background | Plain white |
| Orientation | Portrait |
| Photo Type | Colour photograph |
The exact requirements can vary depending on how and where the photograph is being submitted. Always follow the latest instructions provided by the relevant authority or application portal.
35 × 45 mm Passport Photo in Pixels
A 35 × 45 mm passport photograph has a 7:9 aspect ratio.
As a common digital equivalent for online use, this works out to around 630 × 810 pixels. This is not a fixed universal pixel size — individual portals can specify their own dimensions and file-size limits, so it should be treated as guidance rather than a strict rule.
It is useful to understand the difference:
- 35 × 45 mm → physical photograph dimensions
- 630 × 810 pixels → a common digital equivalent, not a fixed universal requirement
- 7:9 → aspect ratio
If an online application provides its own pixel dimensions, use those exact dimensions rather than assuming that every application uses the same size.
Indian Passport Photo Requirements
A suitable passport photograph should generally meet these requirements:
- Use a plain white background.
- Face the camera directly.
- Keep both eyes clearly visible.
- Keep the head straight and centred.
- Maintain natural skin tones.
- Use a sharp, clear photograph.
- Avoid shadows on the face and background.
- Avoid red-eye and strong flash reflections.
- Keep a natural expression with the mouth closed.
- Make sure the complete face is clearly visible.
- Avoid unnecessary digital filters or heavy editing.
As general ICAO-aligned guidance for passport-style photographs, the face is typically expected to occupy approximately 80–85% of the photograph. Always confirm this against the specific portal's own instructions before submitting.
What Background Should an Indian Passport Photo Have?
A passport photograph should have a plain white background.
For a cleaner result:
- Stand in front of a plain white wall.
- Avoid patterned or textured backgrounds.
- Make sure there are no visible objects behind you.
- Avoid strong shadows around your head.
- Use even lighting across your face.
- Check the final photograph for grey or uneven background areas.
A clean background also makes cropping and resizing easier.
How to Prepare a Passport Photo
You can use a mobile phone to create the original photograph before resizing it.
- Choose a plain background and use even lighting — stand in front of a clean white wall, avoid shadows on your face or behind your head.
- Keep the camera straight — position it around eye level, look directly into the lens, keep your head straight and centred.
- Upload and crop online — upload your photo, crop it to the required portrait ratio, and position your face correctly within the frame.
- Set dimensions and download — set the pixel dimensions required by your application, preview the result, and download the final photo.
If the application also specifies a maximum file size, compress the image after setting the correct dimensions.
Is 35 × 45 mm Required for Every Application?
No. Although 35 × 45 mm is commonly used, applications can specify different pixel dimensions, file-size limits, background requirements, or face positioning. Always check the specific application's instructions before uploading.
Common Passport Photo Upload Problems
- Wrong dimensions: Resize the image to the exact dimensions specified by the application.
- Wrong aspect ratio: Crop the photograph first instead of stretching it.
- File size is too large: Compress the image after setting the correct dimensions.
- Background is rejected: Use a clean white background without distracting shadows.
- Face appears too small: Crop and position the photograph according to the required composition.
- Photo looks blurry: Start with a clearer original and avoid excessive compression.
- Image looks stretched: Maintain the correct aspect ratio while resizing.
- Wrong file format: Export the final image in the format specified by the application.
Passport Photo Upload Checklist
Before uploading your photograph, check:
- Correct photo dimensions
- Correct pixel dimensions
- Correct aspect ratio
- Plain white background
- Face clearly visible
- Head straight and centred
- Eyes clearly visible
- No distracting shadows
- Photo is sharp and not blurry
- Correct file format
- File size is within the application's limit
Tip: Keep your original high-quality photograph until your application has been successfully submitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the passport photo size in India?
The commonly used Indian passport photo size is 35 × 45 mm. As a common digital equivalent for online submissions, this works out to around 630 × 810 pixels.
What is 35 × 45 mm in pixels?
As a common digital equivalent, 35 × 45 mm works out to around 630 × 810 pixels. However, physical millimetres and digital pixels are separate measurements, so always follow the exact requirements of the application you are submitting to.
What background is required for an Indian passport photo?
A plain white background is generally used for Indian passport photographs. The background should be clean and free from distracting shadows or objects.
How much of the photo should the face cover?
As general ICAO-aligned guidance for passport-style photographs, the face is typically expected to occupy approximately 80–85% of the photograph, though you should confirm this against the specific portal's instructions.
Can I take an Indian passport photo with my phone?
Yes. You can use a clear mobile photograph as the source image. Use good lighting, a plain background, a straight camera angle, and make sure the face is clearly visible.
Is 35 × 45 mm required for every Indian application?
No. 35 × 45 mm should not be treated as a universal requirement. Passport, visa, examination, recruitment, and other applications may use different specifications.
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