Indian Passport Photo Size Requirements for Passport Seva
Applying for or renewing an Indian passport through the Passport Seva portal (passportindia.gov.in) requires uploading a digital photograph with very specific size and format requirements. The Ministry of External Affairs has standardized the photo specifications for all Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) applications.
Whether you are applying online (50KB limit) or submitting offline at a Passport Seva Kendra (250KB limit), getting the photograph right is essential for a smooth application process. Incorrect photos are the leading cause of application returns at the PSK counter.
Passport Photo Specifications
- Online Application: 10KB to 50KB (compress to 50KB for best quality)
- Offline / PSK Upload: Up to 250KB
- Dimensions: 350×350 pixels to 1000×1000 pixels (square format)
- Format: JPEG only
- Background: Plain white or off-white, no patterns or shadows
- Specifications: Front-facing, both ears visible, full head from top of hair to chin, neutral expression, no sunglasses
Step-by-Step: Compress Passport Photo to 50KB
- Take a compliant passport photo against a white background. Ensure even lighting with no shadows on the face or background.
- Open the passport photo compressor tool on CompressKaro — it is designed specifically for Indian passport photo specifications.
- Upload your photo and select the 50KB target size for online applications, or 250KB for PSK counter submissions.
- Adjust the quality slider until the real-time output shows your target file size.
- Verify dimensions — ensure the output is at least 350×350 pixels square format.
- Download the compressed JPEG — your passport photo is ready to upload.
Dimensions for Indian Passport: Pixel vs. Physical Size
The Indian passport photo has specific physical dimensions that matter when printing: 2 inches × 2 inches (51mm × 51mm) square format. The digital version uploaded to the Passport Seva website must maintain this aspect ratio. For exact specification details, including proper head positioning and sizing, visit the India passport photo guide.
Common Passport Photo Rejection Reasons
- Background not white: The most common rejection reason. Even a slightly off-white or grayish background can be flagged.
- Shadows on face: Harsh lighting creating shadows on the face or under the chin leads to rejection.
- Hair covering face: Hair must not obscure the edges of the face. Both ears must be visible.
- Smiling or open mouth: A neutral expression with mouth closed is required. Even a slight smile can cause rejection.
- Glasses: If wearing glasses, ensure no glare on lenses and the frame does not obscure eyes.
Also Check: International Passport Photo Requirements
If you are applying for a passport from another country or traveling internationally, passport photo requirements vary by country. CompressKaro provides country-specific guides for US passport photos, UK passport photos, and several other countries. Each guide includes the exact pixel dimensions, file size limits, and format specifications for that country's passport authority.
Process Your Passport Photo Privately
Your passport photo, combined with your personal details, is a sensitive identity document. Using online compressors that upload your photo to remote servers risks exposing your biometric data. CompressKaro processes your passport photo entirely in your browser — no uploads, no servers, no data leakage. Your facial image never leaves your computer.