India Visa · Quick Answer
What Photo Background Is Required for an India Visa?
The India e-Visa photo must have a plain white background. Coloured, patterned, or shadowed backgrounds are the single biggest cause of photo rejections. Stand against a white wall in daylight, face the camera with a neutral expression and no glasses, and crop to a square with the face taking 70 to 80 percent of the frame.
- Processing time
- n/a
- Cost
- Free if you take it yourself
- Validity
- Recent (within 6 months)
- Eligibility
- All applicants
- How to apply
- Online upload
Photo checklist
- Plain white background, no shadows.
- JPEG, square, 10 KB to 1 MB.
- Front-facing, neutral expression, no glasses.
- Face 70 to 80 percent of the frame.
- No hats or head coverings (except religious).
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in the India visa photo?
No — glasses are not allowed.
Can the background be off-white or light grey?
No — it must be plain white; off-white or grey causes rejection.