Indian passport applications in Dubai must include ICAO-compliant photographs/Image: File
Starting September 1, Indian expats in Dubai applying for new passports or renewals must submit photographs that conform to International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. The directive was officially circulated by India’s Ministry of External Affairs to all embassies and consulates worldwide, including the Indian Consulate in Dubai.TL;DR:
- All Indian passport applications in Dubai must include ICAO-compliant photographs beginning September 1, 2025.
- Key photo requirements: colour on white background; dimensions 630×810 pixels; 80-85% face coverage; neutral expression; no computer alterations or filters.
- Updated rules emphasize clear visibility, even lighting, and strict facial composition, consistent with international biometric travel document standards.
New ICAO-compliant passport photo guidelines
Indian nationals in Dubai must ensure their passport photos match the ICAO specifications when submitting paperwork. Requirements include:
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Framing: Head and top of shoulders in close-up; face covers 80-85% of the photo frame.
- p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″> Accessories: Eyeglasses must be removed; religious head coverings allowed but facial features from chin to forehead and both face edges must be visible.
- Q. What is the change in Indian passport photo rules for expats in Dubai?Starting September 1, all passport photos must meet ICAO international biometric standards, including colour on white background, 630×810 pixels dimensions, and 80-85% face coverage.Q. Can applicants wear glasses or head coverings in the new passport photos?Eyeglasses must be removed to prevent reflections. Only religious head coverings are permitted if facial features remain fully visible from chin to forehead.Q. What will cause a passport photo to be rejected under the new rules?Photos will be rejected if they are altered, filtered, blurry, show unnatural skin tones, improper lighting, or include head or eye obstructions.Q. Who issued the directive and where should applicants check for updates?India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued the rule, applicable through all embassies and consulates; applicants should refer to the Passport Seva portal and consulate announcements for specifics.
