Indian Passport Renewal in USA: Complete Guide
Living in the USA and need to renew your Indian passport? Here's everything you need to know about the photo requirements, application process, and how to save money on passport photos.
Key Difference from Applying in India
When renewing from the USA, you must use VFS Global instead of Passport Seva Kendras. The application starts online at passportindia.gov.in, but document submission and biometrics happen at a VFS centre. Processing takes 4-6 weeks.
| Processing Time | 4-6 weeks (standard) |
| Submit via | VFS Global centres in USA |
| Photo Size | 51x51mm (2x2 inches) |
| Photos needed | 2 prints + 1 digital upload |
| Fee | $20-40 (varies by passport type) |
Indian Passport Renewal Process in USA
Apply online at Passport Seva
Create account at passportindia.gov.in, fill application, upload digital photo, pay fees.
Book VFS appointment
Schedule appointment at nearest VFS Global centre through their portal.
Visit VFS with documents
Bring printed application, old passport, 2 photos, supporting documents.
Receive new passport
Standard: 4-6 weeks. Tatkal: 1-2 weeks (emergency only, higher fees).
Photo Requirements in Detail
- Size: 51x51mm (2x2 inches) — Square format, same as US passport
- Background: Strictly white — Indian passport requires pure white, not off-white
- Glasses — Prescription glasses are allowed if there is no glare on the lenses and eyes are clearly visible. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are not permitted
- Head size: 70-80% of photo height — Face should occupy roughly 35-40mm of the frame
- Recent (within 3 months) — Must reflect current appearance
Digital upload specs
For Passport Seva portal upload — JPEG format, 350x350 to 1000x1000 pixels, 20KB-200KB, white background.
Where to Get Passport Photos in USA
Indian passport photos are 2x2 inches (51x51mm) — the same size as US passport photos, so any US passport photo service works:
- Drugstores: CVS, Walgreens, Walmart photo centers
- Shipping stores: UPS Store, FedEx Office
- Online tools: Take at home and print at any drugstore
The key requirement for Indian passports is a strictly white background (not off-white) and the photo must be within 3 months (US allows 6 months). Prescription glasses are allowed for Indian passports if there is no glare.
VFS Global Centres in USA
VFS Global operates Indian passport and visa services in New York (NY), Washington DC, San Francisco (CA), Chicago (IL), Houston (TX), and Atlanta (GA). Book your appointment through the VFS Global website. Walk-ins are not accepted.
Documents Checklist for VFS Appointment
- 2 passport photos (51x51mm / 2x2 inches) on photo paper
- Original current passport (will be cancelled and returned)
- Copy of current passport (first and last page, visa pages)
- Printed application form from Passport Seva with barcode
- Proof of legal US status (visa, I-94, Green Card)
- Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement within 3 months)
- VFS appointment confirmation
Pro tip
Bring extra photos. VFS occasionally requests additional copies, and it’s better to have spares. With our 6-photo sheet, you’re covered.
Renewal Fees
| Type | Fee (USD) | |
|---|---|---|
| 36-page booklet (renewal) | ~$20 | |
| 60-page booklet (renewal) | ~$40 | |
| Tatkal (urgent) surcharge | ~$25 |
Additional VFS service fees apply at the centre. Check VFS Global for current fee schedule.
Sources: Passport Seva, VFS Global USA
Frequently Asked Questions
What size photo do I need for Indian passport renewal in USA?
Indian passport photos must be 51x51mm (2x2 inches) — the same size as US passport photos. For digital upload: 350x350 to 1000x1000 pixels, JPEG format, 20KB-200KB, white background. Photos must be taken within the last 3 months.
Can I use my US passport photo for Indian passport renewal?
Yes, with caveats. Both are 2x2 inches (51x51mm). However, Indian passports require a white background (US accepts off-white), and the photo must be within 3 months (US allows 6 months). Check your existing photo meets both requirements.
How many photos do I need for Indian passport renewal?
You need 2 physical photos (51x51mm) for the VFS appointment, plus a digital photo uploaded to the Passport Seva portal during online application.
Where can I get Indian passport photos in USA?
CVS ($16.99), Walgreens ($14.99), Walmart ($7.44), or use our online tool ($1) then print at any drugstore for $0.35. Total: $1.35 for 6 photos vs $16.99 for 2 at CVS.
How long does Indian passport renewal take in USA?
Standard processing takes 4-6 weeks after VFS receives your application. Tatkal (urgent) processing is available for emergencies at higher fees, typically 1-2 weeks.
Can I renew my Indian passport online from USA?
The application is submitted online through Passport Seva portal, but you must visit a VFS Global centre in person for document verification and biometrics. There are centres in major US cities.
Create Indian Passport Photo
Take a photo with your phone and get a 51x51mm Indian passport photo for $1. Print at any drugstore for $0.35.
Create Indian Passport Photo$1 for 6 photos · Same 2x2 inch size as US passport