New rule: India mandates stricter passport photo specs for applicants

Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes

Indian expatriates in the UAE will need to submit passport photographs that meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards starting September 1, the Indian Consulate in Dubai announced last week.

The change follows a directive from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, communicated to embassies and consulates globally.

Here are the new passport photo specs for Indian passports

The updated regulations require photos in colour, sized at 630 × 810 pixels (or 2×2 inches if printed), against a plain white background.

The face must occupy 80–85 per cent of the frame with a neutral expression, eyes open, and both edges of the face visible.

Photographs must also be sharp, evenly lit, and free of shadows, digital alterations, reflections, or filters.

Head coverings are allowed only for religious reasons, and glasses must be removed to avoid reflections.

Passport applications can be rejected if photo standards are not met

In its announcement, the Consulate’s Press Wing stated that from September 1, passport applications will only be accepted if the photos adhere to these ICAO biometric specifications, emphasising alignment with international travel standards.

Applicants have been advised that most existing photographs will no longer be valid, and fresh compliant images will be required.

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