To obtain an eTourist, eMedical, or eBusiness Visa for India, travelers must submit a scan of the passport bio page and a separate, recent digital photograph.
As the India e-Visa application process is fully electronic, all documents, including the photograph, are uploaded digitally. The e-Visa is the easiest and most convenient way to gain access to India, without the need to present paperwork in person at an embassy or consulate.
The information below explains the criteria that photos must meet.
It is essential that the traveler’s photo is the correct size. Requirements are strict and images that are too large or too small will not be accepted, in which case a new visa application must be made.
The main photo specifications are:
As well as being the correct size, photos for the India e-Visa should meet several additional criteria.
Applicants should be aware that failure to submit an image that meets these criteria can lead to delays and rejections.
The Indian government accepts both color and black and white photographs, provided that it offers a clear and accurate representation of the applicant’s features.
Given that color photos generally offer more detail, it is highly recommended that travelers submit a color photo.
Photos should be unaltered by computer software.
A plain, light-colored or white background must be selected. Subjects should position themselves in front of a plain wall and ensure no pictures, decorative wallpaper, or other people, are in the shot.
To avoid casting a shadow on the wall, stand around half a meter away. Shadows on the background may cause the photo to be rejected.
It is important that the entire face can be seen clearly in the Indian e-Visa photograph. For this reason, spectacles should be removed. Neither prescription glasses nor sunglasses may be worn in the India eVisa picture.
Subjects should also make sure that their eyes are fully open and not have ‘red eye’. Rather than using software to remove it, the photo should be retaken. Avoid using a direct flash to prevent the red-eye effect.
Smiling is not permitted in the India visa photo. Instead, the subject should maintain a neutral expression with the mouth closed. Do not show the teeth in the photo.
Smiling is generally not allowed in passport and visa images because it may prevent biometrics from being measured correctly.
If an image is submitted with an unsuitable facial expression, it will not be accepted and a new application will need to be made.
Religious headgear such as a hijab is permitted provided that the full face is visible.
Only items such as scarves or hats worn for religious purposes are allowed. All other accessories which partially cover the face must be removed for the photograph.
Taking all the above points into consideration, here is a brief step-by-step guide to taking a photo suitable for all types of Indian visa:
Parents and guardians traveling to India with children are reminded that minors need a separate visa for India complete with a digital photograph.
As well as providing a photo that meets the criteria details above, foreign nationals must also meet the other India e-Visa requirements, which include being in possession of the following:
Travelers complete the e-Visa form with basic personal details and passport information before submitting the request for review.
To obtain an eBusiness or eMedical visa for India, further supporting documentation is requested.
The visa will not be granted by the Indian authorities if any mistakes have been made when filling out the form, or if the photograph does not meet the exact specifications.
To avoid delays and possible travel disruption, it is essential that the application is free from errors and that the photograph and all other supporting documentation is submitted correctly.
