Indian Embassy Enforces New Passport Photo Rules 2025
Indian Embassy Enforces New Passport Photo Rules
Kuwait City, August 27, 2025 – The Indian Embassy in Kuwait has announced the implementation of new passport photo guidelines, effective from September 1. The move aims to align with international standards for biometric documentation, specifically those set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Key Highlights of the New Photo Requirements:
- Color Only: Only color photographs will be accepted. Black and white images are no longer permitted.
- Digital Size: The digital photo must measure 630 by 810 pixels.
- Face Visibility: The applicant’s face must be clearly visible with a full-frontal view. The head should occupy 80–85% of the image space.
- Background: A plain white background is mandatory. No shadows or patterns are allowed.
- Facial Expression: Eyes must be open and clearly visible without red-eye or glare. The mouth should be closed with a neutral expression.
- Editing Restrictions: Digitally altered or retouched images will be rejected.
- Head Coverings: Head coverings are only allowed for religious reasons, and even then, the full face, including the forehead, chin, and outline of the face, must be visible.
The embassy urges all applicants to strictly follow these new specifications to avoid delays or rejections in their passport applications. The updated standards are part of a broader effort to improve the quality and security of Indian passports issued abroad.
Notice: From September 1, 2025, only ICAO compliant photographs will be accepted for submission of passport applications. Guidelines for ICAO compliant Photographs for Passport Applications – refer to the flyer for all the requirements.
ICC Women Cricket World Cup 2025: Exciting Full Updated Schedule, Fixtures & Key Details
Indian Embassy Enforces New Passport Photo Rules
Guidelines for ICAO-Compliant Photographs for Passport Applications
To ensure your passport photo meets the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, please follow the instructions below when capturing or uploading your photograph:
General Requirements
- Photograph Size: 630 × 810 pixels (digital)
- Format: Color only (no black & white)
- Background: Plain white, free from shadows or patterns
- Face Coverage: Head and top of shoulders must be visible, with the face occupying 80–85% of the photo
- Distance from Camera: Approximately 1.5 meters
- Editing: Photos must be unaltered and not digitally enhanced or retouched
Facial and Pose Guidelines
- Full face, front view with eyes open
- Center the head within the frame — no tilting
- Natural facial expression (neutral look)
- Mouth must be closed
- Eyes clearly visible — no red-eye, no glare, and no hair covering the eyes
- Skin tone should appear natural with appropriate brightness and contrast
- No blurriness — image must be sharp and in focus
- No shadows or flash reflections on the face or in the background
Clothing and Accessories
- Glasses: Not recommended. If worn, must not cause reflections; eyes must be clearly visible
- Head Coverings: Only permitted for religious reasons
- Full facial features from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead and both sides of the face must be clearly visible
- No facial shadows or obstructions
🌞 PM Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana: A Step-by-Step Guide + Stock Market Impact ⚡🇮🇳 iiQ8
Please ensure your photo adheres strictly to these specifications. Non-compliant photographs may result in delays or rejection of your passport application.
- What are the new photo size requirements for Indian passport applications?
The photograph must be in color and have digital dimensions of 630 × 810 pixels. The face should occupy 80–85% of the image with a full-frontal view, including the top of the shoulders.
- Can I wear glasses or head coverings in my passport photo?
- Glasses: It is advised to remove glasses to avoid glare or reflections. If worn, the eyes must be clearly visible with no light reflection.
- Head Coverings: Only permitted for religious reasons. The entire face, from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead and both sides of the face, must be clearly visible.
- What kind of background is acceptable for the passport photo?
The background must be plain white with no shadows, patterns, or reflections. Ensure even lighting to avoid shadows on the face or behind the subject.
- Can I digitally enhance or edit my passport photo?
No. Photos must be unaltered by computer software. Any digitally edited, filtered, or retouched images will be rejected.
- What are common reasons for passport photo rejection?
Common reasons include:
- Improper size or cropping
- Blurred or low-quality image
- Shadow or glare on the face
- Eyes not clearly visible
- Facial expression not neutral (smiling or open mouth)
- Photo taken too close or too far
- Background not white