Aadhaar Card Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Prepare your photo correctly by following official rules for size, background, and framing before you submit your application.
Understanding Your Photo Rules
UIDAI captures your photo during Aadhaar enrolment[1]. The cited UIDAI source does not set a photo size or other photo specifications, so check the enrolment centre for current instructions.
UIDAI captures the Aadhaar photo at enrolment[1]. Form No. 93 specifies a separate recent colour photograph measuring 4.5 × 3.5 cm for PAN[2].
Size, Head Height, and Framing
UIDAI does not publish a single official Aadhaar photo size[1]. The 25 × 35 mm size is a studio’s commonly requested format, not an official UIDAI requirement.
The cited UIDAI source does not specify head height or framing measurements[1].
Background and Lighting
UIDAI captures the Aadhaar photo at enrolment, and the cited UIDAI source does not specify a background color[1]. The 2026 PAN form calls for a recent color photograph but does not specify a background[2].
To achieve a clean, solid background without shadows, stand in front of a plain white wall in a well-lit room. Face a large window to let natural light fall evenly across your face, which prevents dark shadows under your nose or chin and keeps your skin tone looking natural.
Facial Expressions, Glasses, and Coverings
The cited UIDAI source does not specify an expression or mouth-position rule[1].
The cited UIDAI source does not specify rules for glasses or head coverings[1].
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
You can take your picture at home using a digital camera or a smartphone if you follow a few simple steps. Ask someone else to take the picture rather than taking a selfie, because holding the camera yourself distorts your facial proportions and arm placement.
Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level and stand about one to one and a half metres away from the camera. Take several shots under bright, even lighting while keeping your shoulders straight and your gaze fixed directly on the lens.
Submission and Enrolment Details
UIDAI captures the Aadhaar photo during enrolment, including a child's photo[1]. Separately, PAN Form No. 93 specifies a recent color photograph measuring 4.5 × 3.5 cm[2].
Because the authority takes the photo itself or requires an official enrolment operator in many cases, you should verify if you need to visit a designated centre. Even when an office captures your photo on-site, having your own correctly sized copy can help you check your appearance beforehand.
Preparing Your Photo with the Tool
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct dimensions and check your framing before you print or submit it. The tool above helps you align your chin and head height so your photo matches standard requirements.
Remember that the issuing authority always makes the final decision on whether to accept your photo. Using the tool above simply helps you prepare your file neatly and check your framing at home.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the Aadhaar card photo?
UIDAI does not publish a single official Aadhaar photo size in the cited source[1].
What background colour do I need?
The cited UIDAI source does not specify a required background color[1].
Can I wear glasses in my photo?
The cited UIDAI source does not specify a rule about glasses[1].
What facial expression is required?
The cited UIDAI source does not specify a required facial expression[1].
Who takes the Aadhaar photo?
The enrolment operator captures the Aadhaar photo during your official enrolment session[1].