Indian Passport Renewal Quick Facts

Processing Time	4-6 weeks (standard)
Submit via	VFS Global centres in USA
Photo Size	51×51mm (2×2 inches)
Photos needed	2 prints + 1 digital upload
Fee	$20-40 (varies by passport type)

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 after VFS receives your application.

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: 51×51mm (2×2 inches)

Square format, same as US passport. Easy to get in USA—same size works for both.

Background: Strictly white

Indian passport requires pure white—not off-white, not light grey. More strict than US passport.

No glasses

Glasses are not permitted—even clear prescription lenses. Remove before taking photo.

Head size: 50-69% of photo height

Face should occupy roughly half to two-thirds of the frame.

Recent (within 6 months)

Must reflect current appearance. If you've changed significantly, take a new photo.

Digital upload specs: For Passport Seva portal upload—JPEG format, 200×200 to 500×500 pixels, maximum 500KB, white background.

Where to Get Passport Photos in USA

Indian passport photos are 2×2 inches (51×51mm)—the same size as US passport photos, so any US passport photo service works. Common options:

• 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 no glasses—more strict than US passport rules.

VFS Global Centres in USA

VFS Global operates Indian passport and visa services at these locations:

New York

Washington DC

San Francisco

Chicago

Houston

Atlanta

Book your appointment through the VFS Global website. Walk-ins are not accepted.

Documents Checklist for VFS Appointment

✓ 2 passport photos (51×51mm / 2×2 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

Fees vary by passport type and are paid online during the Passport Seva application:

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size photo do I need for Indian passport renewal in USA?

Indian passport photos must be 51×51mm (2×2 inches)—the same size as US passport photos. For digital upload: minimum 200×200 pixels, maximum 500KB, JPEG format, white background.

Can I use my US passport photo for Indian passport renewal?

Yes, with caveats. Both are 2×2 inches (51×51mm). However, Indian passports require a white background (US accepts off-white), and glasses are not permitted for Indian passports. Check your existing photo meets both requirements.

How many photos do I need for Indian passport renewal?

You need 2 physical photos (51×51mm) 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

Sources: Passport Seva, VFS Global USA