Passport Photo Size: Rules, Tools, and How to Get It Right

When you need a passport photo size, the standardized dimensions and formatting required by government authorities for official travel documents. Also known as passport photo requirements, it’s not just about how you look—it’s about meeting strict technical specs that vary by country but follow global norms. In India, the standard is 35mm wide by 45mm high, with your face taking up 70-80% of the frame. No filters. No shadows. No smiling. And yes, your glasses can get you rejected—even if you can’t see without them.

This isn’t just about printing. It’s about passport photo rules, the official guidelines set by immigration authorities that dictate lighting, background, expression, and head positioning. A white or off-white background? Check. Neutral expression? Check. Eyes open and looking straight at the camera? Non-negotiable. Even the angle of your head matters—tilt too much, and your application gets delayed. And if you’re thinking of using a selfie? Most don’t pass. The lighting’s wrong, the background’s cluttered, or your face is too close to the edge. You’re not alone—over 60% of home-taken passport photos get rejected on first try.

That’s where tools like passport photo generator, online services that auto-crop and adjust your photo to meet official size and format standards come in. But not all are equal. Some charge hidden fees. Others watermark your photo. The best ones? They’re free, use your phone’s camera, and give you a print-ready file in minutes. You don’t need Photoshop. You don’t need a studio. You just need to know what the system actually wants.

And it’s not just size. It’s context. Are you applying for a passport in Mumbai? Delhi? Or abroad? Rules can shift slightly. Is your child under five? Different rules apply. Do you wear religious headwear? You can, but only if it doesn’t obscure your face. These aren’t guesses—they’re written rules, and they’re enforced. One wrong pixel, and your whole application stalls.

What you’ll find below isn’t theory. It’s real fixes from real people who got their photos rejected and figured it out. You’ll see how to take a compliant photo at home using just your phone and a white wall. You’ll learn what’s actually allowed in your photo—yes, even if you wear glasses. You’ll find out why that $15 photo kiosk at the post office isn’t always the best option. And you’ll discover the free tools that actually work, without the upsells.

This isn’t about perfection. It’s about passing. And with the right info, you can do it in under 10 minutes—no photographer, no studio, no extra cost.