Indian Expats In Dubai To Follow Stricter Passport Photo Rules From September 1

From September 1, 2025, Indian expatriates in Dubai applying for a new passport or seeking renewal will need to follow a new set of photo rules. The Indian Consulate in Dubai has confirmed that only photographs meeting International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, which were released on August 25, will be accepted, bringing Indian passports in line with global biometric requirements. The decision follows a directive from India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), circulated to embassies and consulates worldwide via the Passport Seva portal.

Also Read: Indian Railways To Add More Coaches To Vande Bharat Trains On Seven Busy Routes

What Applicants Need To Know

The change means that most applicants will have to submit fresh photographs that meet the updated criteria. Unlike earlier, where there was some flexibility, the new rules strictly demand ICAO compliance to ensure that passports are machine-readable and globally compatible.

Updated Photo Specifications

• Format: Coloured photo on plain white background, size 630 x 810 pixels (or 2x2 inch if printed).
• Framing: Head and shoulders close-up, face covering 80-85% of the frame.
• Clarity: No filters, computer edits, or blurring; natural skin tone must be visible.
• Lighting: Even brightness, no shadows, glare, or red-eye.
• Facial Features: Eyes open, mouth closed, no hair covering the eyes; face straight and centred.
• Glasses & Coverings: Glasses must be removed; head coverings only for religious reasons, but full face must remain visible.
• Expression: Neutral and natural look.
• Camera Distance: Taken from 1.5 metres away.

Why The Change Is Important

The shift to ICAO-compliant images is aimed at strengthening the security of Indian passports while also making them more widely acceptable at immigration counters worldwide. Other Indian missions, including those in Kuwait, have already rolled out similar requirements, with Abu Dhabi expected to implement the same soon.

Also Read: Hyderabad Will Soon Have An Artificial Beach, Details Inside

Applicants in Dubai have been advised to check the updated rules carefully before scheduling their appointments to avoid delays or rejections. For expats, this may involve a simple extra step of getting new compliant photos taken - but it also means smoother travel and fewer hiccups at international borders.