Everything you need to know about India PIO Card photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to prepare a compliant photo. Note: The PIO Card scheme has been merged into the OCI scheme.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | India |
| Document Type | PIO Card (Person of Indian Origin) |
| Photo Size | 35 x 35 mm (3.5 x 3.5 cm) - Square |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Pixel Dimensions | 600 x 600 pixels (at 600 DPI) |
| Head Size | 70-80% of the photo area |
| Background Color | Plain white |
| Printable | Yes |
| Digital for Online Submission | Yes |
| Color | Color only (correct skin tone, no red-eye) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
The PIO Card photo follows standard Indian government ID photo specifications. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Glasses are NOT allowed in PIO Card 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 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 PIO Card photo must be exactly 35x35mm in square format. At 600 DPI, this translates to 600x600 pixels. The head should occupy 70-80% of the photo area.
No. The PIO (Person of Indian Origin) Card scheme was merged into the OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) scheme in January 2015 by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. New applicants should apply for an OCI Card instead. Existing valid PIO cards are treated as OCI cards.
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 the required specifications.
You should apply for an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) Card. The PIO Card scheme was merged into the OCI scheme in January 2015, and no new PIO card applications are being accepted. OCI cards offer lifelong validity and the same benefits as the former PIO card.
Yes, existing PIO Cards that were valid as of January 2015 are deemed to be OCI Cards. However, it is recommended to convert your PIO Card to an OCI Card booklet for convenience and to avoid potential issues at immigration checkpoints.
No. Glasses are not permitted in PIO Card photos. You must remove your glasses before taking the photo to ensure clear visibility of your eyes and facial features.
If your photo does not meet the requirements, your application will be delayed or returned. Using PassportPhoto.help ensures your photo meets all official requirements before you submit your application, saving you time and hassle.
