Indian seafarer identity document photo (35×35 mm)

Official Size and Dimensions for Your Photo

The Directorate General of Shipping photo guide specifies a 35 × 35 mm photo and a head height of 24–28 mm, measured from chin to top of head^[1].

When you crop your picture, check that the dimensions match 35 × 35 mm precisely. Your head should take up most of the central frame, leaving an equal amount of space on both sides. The distance from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head must fall strictly between 24 and 28 mm^[1]. If your head is too small or too large, the online system may flag your image during processing.

Background, Lighting, and Technical Quality

Use a plain white background and even lighting, with no obscuring shadows or glare^[1].

Stand directly in front of a plain white wall that has no patterns, textures, or wall hangings. Natural daylight coming from a front-facing window works best because it lights your face evenly. Avoid harsh side lighting that creates dark shadows on one side of your cheek or nose. Turn off your camera flash if it causes bright reflections on your skin or casts a hard shadow on the white wall behind you.

Facial Expression and Appearance Rules

The photo guide calls for a neutral expression and a forward-facing photo^[1]. It does not specify a mouth-closed rule, require wide-open eyes, or state that glasses cause refusal.

Look straight into the camera lens with your shoulders square and relaxed. Do not smile, frown, or tilt your head in any direction. While the official rules do not ban eyeglasses completely, taking them off is often the safest choice to avoid glare on the glass or thick frames hiding your eyes.

Submission Methods and File Requirements

Applicants upload a color photo and signature for processing^[2]. The cited guide does not set a file-size limit.

You must prepare both your color photo and your handwritten signature as digital files before you start your online application form. Make sure your picture is in full color and clearly displays your facial features. Save your files in standard formats like JPEG so the upload portal accepts them without throwing an error.

Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step

The official guide specifies a white background and a 24–28 mm head height^[1]. Follow those requirements when preparing your photo.

Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of using a selfie stick or your phone front camera, which can distort your face proportions. Stand about one meter away from the white background wall, and have the helper stand about two meters away from you. Keep the camera lens at the exact height of your eyes. Take a few test shots to check the lighting before you pick the best one.

Printing and Preparing Your Photo Sheet

The supplied facts describe a color photo upload for processing. They do not specify a print-sheet format.

Since India issues a Continuous Discharge Certificate-cum-Seafarers Identity Document (CDC-cum-SID) booklet through an online upload portal^[2], your primary requirement is a digital image file. If you ever need physical copies for other paperwork, print them on quality photo paper at the exact 35 × 35 mm size without adding extra borders or frames around the picture.

About the Seafarer Identity Document

India issues a Continuous Discharge Certificate-cum-Seafarers Identity Document (CDC-cum-SID) booklet for qualified maritime workers^[2]. This document is managed by the Directorate General of Shipping, which operates under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways^[2]. Because this booklet serves as your official identification for your career at sea, following the precise photo guidelines helps your application move smoothly through the system.