Indian Regular Visa Photo Requirements and Size Guide
Get your Indian regular visa photo right by following the official rules for size, background, and digital file limits. You can prepare your picture easily using the tool above.
Official Size and Format
The regular visa portal requires a square digital photo[1]. It does not prescribe a physical size in millimeters.
The portal requires a square JPEG photo[1][2]. Its uploader guide gives pixel bounds for the image[1].
The portal specifies a square image with dimensions from 350 to 1,000 pixels per side[1].
The portal does not prescribe a physical print size in millimeters[1][2].
Background and Lighting Rules
Use a plain light-colored or white background[1].
Good lighting helps the system read your photo correctly. Face a bright window or set up balanced lighting to remove dark shadows from your face and the background.
The official instructions require a plain light-colored or white background[1].
Avoid patterned walls, textured wallpaper, or dark backdrops. Stand slightly away from the wall to prevent shadows from appearing behind your head during the shot.
File Size and Upload Limits
When you submit your visa application online, your photo file must meet strict size limits set by the authorities. The file size must stay between 10 KB and 300 KB[1][2].
The allowed file size is 10–300 KB[1].
Always verify that your final JPEG file falls within the allowed range so your submission goes through without technical errors[1][2].
If your file is too large, you can adjust the compression settings when saving your JPEG image on your computer.
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take your visa photo at home using a digital camera or a smartphone. Place the camera at eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of holding the camera yourself. This prevents distortion and keeps your head centered in the frame.
The cited instructions require a full-face, front-view photo with eyes open, but do not specify a neutral expression or closed mouth[1].
Wear regular everyday clothes that contrast with your background so your shoulders are clear and visible in the final picture.
Glasses, Headwear, and Children
The official guidelines from the Indian Mission and Bureau of Immigration do not specify detailed rules for glasses or headwear in the regular visa photo instructions[1][2].
If you wear glasses, make sure there is no flash glare on the lenses and your eyes remain fully visible to anyone reviewing the image.
For families applying with children, note that no distinct infant exception is stated on the regular visa photo instructions[1][2].
When photographing young children, keep the background flat and clean, and make sure their face is fully turned toward the camera lens.
Submission and Common Refusal Reasons
You submit your photo online along with your supporting documents directly to the Indian Mission, Post, or visa centre[1][2].
The instructions specify a 10–300 KB file size and a plain light-colored or white background[1].
Always check that your photo meets every requirement from the Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs before you send your application[1][2].
Common problems happen when the background has patterns or the file size is outside the allowed range. Check these details carefully before uploading your file to the portal.