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Last update: 5/15/2025

Written bySandra

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The Ultimate Guide to Indian Visa Photo Requirements for US Citizens

Applying for an Indian visa? The photo is one of the most common reasons for application rejection. A simple mistake can lead to frustrating delays and extra costs. This guide will walk you through the exact photo requirements for every type of Indian visa, ensuring you get it right the first time.

Your Quick Compliance Checklist: Top Do's and Don'ts

Before you even take your photo, keep these essential rules in mind. They apply to almost every type of Indian visa application.

Which Visa? The Photo Rules Are NOT The Same!

The single most important thing to know is that the photo requirements change based on your application type. A photo that works for an e-Visa will be rejected for a regular visa application.

There are three main application types for US citizens, each with its own unique rules:

1. Indian e-Visa: A fully online application requiring a digital photo upload.
2. Regular (Sticker) Visa: A traditional visa that requires both a digital photo upload and a physical printed photo.
3. OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) Card: A long-term card that requires a digital photo and a separate digital signature image.

Let's break down the specific requirements for each.

1. Indian e-Visa Photo Specifications

This is a completely digital process. You only need to upload one JPEG photo to the official government portal.

• File Format: JPEG
• File Size: Between 10 KB and 1 MB.
• Dimensions: Must be a square (equal height and width). A resolution of at least 350x350 pixels is recommended.
• Critical Rule: You absolutely cannot wear eyeglasses in your e-Visa photo.

2. Regular (Sticker) Visa Photo Specifications

This process requires two photos: one digital file for the online form and one physical print to attach to your application. Crucially, both photos must be identical.

For the Digital Upload:

• File Format: JPEG
• File Size: Between 10 KB and 300 KB. (Note: This is much smaller than the e-Visa limit!)
• Dimensions: A square photo, between 350x350 pixels and 1000x1000 pixels.

For the Physical Print:

• Size: A 2x2 inch (51mm x 51mm) print.
• Paper: Must be printed on glossy, photo-quality paper.
• Head Size: Your head, from chin to the top of your hair, must measure between 1 and 1-3/8 inches.
• Eye Position: Your eyes should be located between 1-1/8 and 1-3/8 inches from the bottom of the photo.
• Eyeglasses: While technically allowed if there is zero glare, it is highly recommended to remove them to avoid rejection.

3. OCI Card: Photo and Signature Specifications

The OCI application has its own unique digital requirements, including a separate image for your signature.

For the OCI Photo:

• File Format: JPEG
• File Size: Up to 500 KB.
• Dimensions: A square photo, between 200x200 pixels and 1500x1500 pixels.

For the OCI Signature:

This is a common point of trouble for applicants. You must upload an image of your signature with very specific dimensions.

• File Format: JPEG
• File Size: Up to 500 KB.
• Aspect Ratio: The image must have a 1:3 aspect ratio (width must be three times the height).
• Dimensions: Between 200x67 pixels (minimum) and 1500x500 pixels (maximum).

Pro Tip: Getting the 1:3 signature ratio right can be tricky. Our photo tool includes a dedicated OCI signature cropper to make it easy.

Universal Photo Rules for a Flawless Application

No matter which visa you're applying for, follow these composition rules.

• Positioning: Face the camera directly. Your head must be centered, not tilted. Both sides of your face should be equally visible.
• Expression: Maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed. Do not smile or frown.
• Background: The background must be completely plain white or an off-white color. No patterns, objects, textures, or shadows.
• Lighting: Lighting should be even across your face. Avoid shadows on your face or behind you.
• Attire: Wear normal daily clothing. Do not wear uniforms. Avoid white or very light-colored shirts that blend into the background.
• Head Coverings: Head coverings are only allowed for religious reasons and must not cover any part of your face, including your forehead and chin.
• For Infants & Children: The rules are slightly relaxed. An infant's eyes can be closed, and the strict head-sizing rules are eased for children under 10. However, the photo must show the child alone—no visible hands, toys, or car seats.

Master Specification Cheat Sheet

Use this table as a quick reference for the technical requirements of your specific application.

Get Your Perfect Indian Visa Photo in 60 Seconds

Navigating these rules can be complex, but it doesn't have to be. Instead of worrying about pixel dimensions, file sizes, and background rules, let our tool handle it for you.

Simply upload a regular photo, and our technology will automatically:

• Verify your photo against all official government requirements.
• Crop and resize it to the exact specifications for your specific visa type (e-Visa, Regular, or OCI).
• Remove the background and replace it with a compliant white one.
• Provide you with a 100% compliant digital photo for your upload and a print-ready template for your physical photo.

Get started now and submit your application with confidence!

Sources

The information in this guide is compiled from official sources to ensure accuracy. For your application, always refer to the official government and authorized service provider websites:

• Government of India e-Visa Portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/
• Government of India Visa & OCI Portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/
• VFS Global (Official Partner for US applicants): The specific URL depends on your location within the US, but services are managed through the official VFS Global website.
• OCI Services Portal: https://ociservices.gov.in/