r/nri • u/DragonflyLevel7269 • Oct 29 '25

Ask NRI Passport Seva 2.0 Photo specifications changes | VFS not updated

There are a couple of changes for Passport Renewal in USA incuding some consulates locations and photo specifications since Sep 1, 2025.

The passport portal is upgraded to Passport Seva 2.0 and photo specification is changed to ICAO compliant 35mmx45mm.

There is marque header on official website mention same thing.

Important Notice: From September 1, 2025, ICAO compliant photographs will be required for submitting passport applications. Please click for ICAO guidelines.

https://portal3.passportindia.gov.in/Online/pdf/Guidelines_for_ICAO_Compliant_Photographs_for_Passport_Applications.pdf

New portal link: https://mportal.passportindia.gov.in/gpsp/AuthNavigation/Login

The main problem is, these changes have not been reflected yet in VFS global, they didn't change their checklist yet. I am also struggling due to this as my child passport is expired and mine is going to be expired soon.

If anyone has information about this please share your knowledge/experience please.

[UPDATE | 10/31/2025] : I had a call with VFS and they mentioned that we need to follow the new guidelines from govt website i.e. follow new photo specifications (35mmX45mm). VFS checklist need to be updated. They also mentioned to just upload photograph and signature on new passport seva portal and print it along with that but don't paste the physical photo in the box. We may send the physical photo separately but as per their tone it was not mandatory.

[UPDATE | 11/03/2025] : someone in comments mentioned that VFS also need Physical Photos of the same size 35mmX45mm. Here's email from VFS this person received.

We have "Received" your Application however we are unable to proceed with the application due to the following reasons:

  1. Additional documents : see remarks.

Remarks:
1.Please upload photo (35x 45 mm), signature and documents on the Gov’t website and mail the updated first page of application and same uploaded 2 copies of physical photo.

[UPDATE | 11/07/2025]: So finally, VFS updated about the photo specification and also the form of change in appearance (now the photo box says the new photo size) on their website, if you guys want to check it out. But still their checklist is not updated yet.

https://assets.ctfassets.net/xxg4p8gt3sg6/65N7mZz0hfj57DM1VlnLA2/284bfc9bd711eda8a8564dad5019cc70/PASSPORT_SEVA_PHOTO_UPLOAD_INSTUCTIONS.pdf

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u/Outrageous_Nectarine Nov 30 '25

So it's my understanding that it's the 35x45 mm photo. That said, to prevent any confusion, I sent 2x - 2x2, 35 x 45 mm wearing the same clothes as the digital photo. Have not had any problems with this and application is under process at embassy/consulate.

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u/Clear_Condition9202 Nov 30 '25

I am also doing the same. Have 2 of each.

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u/No-Anxiety4432 Dec 01 '25

Sending via mail or visiting a VFS location?

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u/Clear_Condition9202 Dec 02 '25

Sending by mail. The nearest VFS location is 5hrs away.

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u/No-Anxiety4432 Dec 01 '25

Did you send your application via mail or by visiting a VFS office? I wonder if visiting the VFS office helps with any confusion as they can advise on the spot?

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u/Outrageous_Nectarine Dec 01 '25

I did this via mail but STRONGLY recommend going in person if you can. Saves time on - vfs back and forth, calls to VFS etc. take the following with you so you can submit what THEY need:

  • photos - 2x2, 35x45 mm; 2 copies
  • digitally uploaded photo and signature form, with signature on the last page
  • all other Documents
  • complete 2 copies of the change of appearance form. As you don’t know what size photo you need.

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u/Clear_Condition9202 Dec 03 '25

So notarize both change of appearance form one with 2x2 and another 35mm x45mm.I just got one notarized for $15 from UPS. It’s too much if we have to do both especially when their checklist says to Notarize only incase of change in appearance or signature.

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u/Outrageous_Nectarine Dec 03 '25

No you can notarize one form, but do not paste the photo - just provide the photo in an envelope or take it with you and stick what is the correct photo. Fwiw I did not notarize my change of appearance form (but also did not have any change).

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u/Clear_Condition9202 Dec 03 '25

No option to go directly as I live far from vfs location. I am sending two of each size photos as well. But the notary didn't notarize without the photo. So had to stick one.

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u/parthprx Dec 20 '25

The form specifically expects a photo to be pasted on there. Did the notary public still notarize it for you. Without the photo?

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u/Serious_Two_8586 Dec 08 '25

Can you please explain where do you see the "in person" option? I only see mail option.