Passport Photo Background Color Requirements
Get the background right for your passport photo. Learn exact color requirements and DIY setup tips.
Indian Passport Background Requirements
For Indian passports, the background must be plain white or off-white. Colored, patterned, or shadowed backgrounds will be rejected.
Acceptable
- ✅ Pure white
- ✅ Light off-white
- ✅ Uniform color, no variations
- ✅ Free from shadows
Not Acceptable
- ❌ Blue, red, or any color
- ❌ Patterned or textured
- ❌ Gradients or uneven
- ❌ Visible shadows
Requirements by Country
| Country | Background |
|---|---|
| India | White/Off-white |
| USA | White only |
| UK | Light grey or cream |
| Indonesia | Red |
| Malaysia | Light blue |
DIY Background Setup
Option 1: White Wall
- Find a clean, flat white wall
- Check for marks or shadows
- Stand 1-2 feet away
Option 2: White Bedsheet
- Iron to remove wrinkles
- Hang flat against wall
- Ensure no folds visible
Option 3: Digital Removal
Use PassportSizePhoto.in to automatically remove any background and replace with perfect white.
Lighting for White Background
Common Problems
- Grey background: Not enough light
- Yellow tint: Indoor tungsten lighting
- Shadows: Standing too close
Solutions
- Use natural daylight when possible
- Stand 3-4 feet from background
- Light the background separately
Common Mistakes
- Visible shadows: Stand further from background
- Wrinkled sheet: Iron thoroughly
- Color cast: Use natural daylight
- Objects visible: Use digital background removal
Frequently Asked Questions
What background color is required for Indian passport photos?
Plain white or off-white background is required for Indian passport photos. The background must be uniform without patterns, shadows, or textures.
Is off-white acceptable for passport photos?
Light off-white is generally acceptable for Indian passports, but pure white is preferred and recommended. Very cream or beige backgrounds may be rejected.
Can I use blue background for Indian passport?
No, blue backgrounds are not accepted for Indian passports. India specifically requires white or off-white backgrounds. Some other countries like Malaysia require blue.
How to create white background at home?
Use a clean white wall, hang a white bedsheet, or use white poster board. Stand 2-3 feet away to avoid shadows. Ensure even lighting across the background.
Why is my white wall appearing grey in photos?
This happens due to insufficient lighting. Add more light to the background or use our tool which automatically removes and replaces backgrounds with perfect white.
What if my background has shadows?
Shadows on the background will cause rejection. Stand further from the wall (2-3 feet), add more frontal lighting, or use digital background removal tools.
Can I digitally change my background to white?
Yes! PassportSizePhoto.in automatically removes any background and replaces it with perfect white. This is the easiest solution for home photos.
What background color for US visa photos?
US visas require pure white backgrounds only. Off-white or cream are not acceptable for DS-160 applications.
Are textured backgrounds allowed?
No, textured or patterned backgrounds are not allowed for any passport or visa photo. The background must be completely plain and uniform.
What if I have colorful curtains behind me?
Colorful or patterned curtains will not work for passport photos. Either change location, cover with white sheet, or use automatic background removal.