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 | 35×45mm (ICAO, mandatory since Sept 2025) |
| 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: 35×45mm (ICAO Doc 9303) — Portrait rectangle, mandatory since September 2025 (replacing the old 2×2 inch square)
- Background: Strictly white — No off-white, cream, or shaded backgrounds
- Glasses: Not permitted — Glasses are no longer allowed unless you have a documented medical condition
- Head size: 70-80% of photo height — Measured chin to crown
- Recent (within 6 months) — Must reflect current appearance
- No filters or AI smoothing — Photo must not be edited
Digital upload specs
For Passport Seva and mPassport portal upload — JPEG format, 630×810 pixels, under 250KB, plain white background.
Where to Get Passport Photos in USA
Indian passport photos are now 35×45mm (ICAO standard) — different from the standard US 2×2 inch size. Most US drugstores default to the US format, so be specific when ordering:
- Drugstores: CVS, Walgreens, Walmart photo centers — ask for “35×45mm ICAO” explicitly (not all locations support custom sizes)
- Shipping stores: UPS Store, FedEx Office
- Online tools: Take at home with our $1 tool and print at any drugstore — guarantees the right format
Background must be strictly white. Glasses are not permitted under the new ICAO rules unless you carry a doctor’s certificate.
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 (35×45mm ICAO format) 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 35×45mm (width × height) under the ICAO Doc 9303 standard, mandatory at Indian missions worldwide from September 1, 2025. For digital upload via Passport Seva or mPassport: JPEG at 630×810 pixels, under 250KB, plain white background. Photos must be taken within the last 6 months. The previous 2×2 inch (51×51mm) format is no longer accepted.
Can I use my US passport photo for Indian passport renewal?
No. US passport photos are 2×2 inches (51×51mm), but Indian passport photos are now 35×45mm under the ICAO standard. The dimensions and aspect ratio are different, so you'll need a separate photo.
How many photos do I need for Indian passport renewal?
You need 2 physical photos (35×45mm ICAO format) 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?
Most US drugstores default to 2×2 inch US-style photos. Ask specifically for '35×45mm ICAO' or use our online tool ($1) and print the sheet at any drugstore for $0.35.
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 35×45mm ICAO-compliant Indian passport photo for $1. Print at any drugstore for $0.35.
Create Indian Passport Photo$1 for 6 photos · New ICAO 35×45mm format (mandatory since Sept 2025)