Everything you need to know about India PCC (Police Clearance Certificate) and Birth Certificate photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and differences between domestic and overseas applications.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | India |
| Document Type | PCC (Police Clearance Certificate) / Birth Certificate |
| Photo Size (Domestic) | 35 x 35 mm (3.5 x 3.5 cm) - Square |
| Photo Size (Overseas / VFS) | 51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 inch) - may vary by center |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Pixel Dimensions (35x35mm) | 600 x 600 pixels (at 600 DPI) |
| Head Size | 70-80% of the photo area |
| Background Color | Plain white |
| Printable | Yes |
| Digital for Online Upload | Yes — 630 x 810 pixels (35x45mm variant) |
| Color | Color only (correct skin tone, no red-eye) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
The PCC and Birth Certificate photo follows standard Indian government ID photo specifications. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Glasses are NOT allowed in PCC / Birth Certificate photos. You must remove your glasses before taking the photo, even if you wear them daily. This ensures clear visibility of your eyes and facial features.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant PCC / Birth Certificate photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a quality ID photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows on both sides of your face.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 1.5 meters in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is clearly visible on both sides.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. The horizontal line between your eyes should be parallel to the top edge of the photo.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID photos
An India PCC photo for domestic applications must be exactly 35x35mm (square format). At 600 DPI, this translates to 600x600 pixels. For overseas applications via VFS Global, a 51x51mm (2x2 inch) photo may be required. Always check with your specific application center for their exact requirements.
Yes. Domestic PCC applications through Passport Seva Kendras typically require 35x35mm photos. Overseas PCC applications processed through VFS Global may require 51x51mm (2x2 inch) photos. Requirements may vary by country and specific application center, so always verify before submitting.
The background must be plain white. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a white wall, our tool will automatically replace your background with the correct color.
Yes! You can take your photo with any smartphone. Simply upload it to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all PCC photo requirements.
Overseas PCC applications through VFS Global typically require 51x51mm (2x2 inch) photos with a white background. The photo must be in color, taken within the last 6 months, showing a full frontal view of the face with both ears visible. Check with your specific VFS Global center for exact requirements as they may vary.
No. Glasses are not permitted in PCC / Birth Certificate photos. You must remove your glasses before taking the photo to ensure clear visibility of your eyes and facial features.
For domestic applications, register and apply online through passportindia.gov.in, then visit your designated Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) with the required documents and photos. For overseas applications, apply through the Indian Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global in your country of residence.
If your photo doesn't meet the requirements, your PCC application will be delayed and you may need to resubmit. Using PassportPhoto.help ensures your photo meets all official requirements before you submit your application, saving you time and avoiding rejections.
