New Passport Photo Requirements for Indian Expats in UAE Starting September 1, 2025

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has issued a new directive requiring all passport applicants in the UAE, including Dubai-based expats, to submit photographs that comply with ICAO standards, beginning on September 1, 2025. The rules have been communicated via the Indian Consulate in Dubai and will likely be adopted soon by other missions across the region.

Key Photograph Specifications:

• Dimensions: 630 × 810 pixels

• Background: Solid white

• Framing: Face must occupy 80–85% of the photo

• Image Quality: No digital alterations; clear resolution; no shadows or reflections

• Composition: Full face in front view, mouth closed, eyes open, natural skin tone, no hair covering eyes, taken from about 1.5m away, no glasses to avoid reflections

• Facial Expression: Neutral, with even lighting

Authorities emphasize that applications not meeting these criteria will not be accepted, highlighting the importance of upgrading to ICAO-compliant photos to avoid delays.