Browser-only image tool
Photo Size for PAN Card
The Income Tax Department requires a specific photo size for PAN card applications: 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm, white background, under 20 KB for online forms. This tool resizes and compresses your photo to meet these exact requirements in your browser.
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PAN card photo requirements
| Requirement | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm | Portrait orientation |
| File size (NSDL) | Under 20 KB | JPG format required |
| File size (UTIITSL) | Under 50 KB | JPG format required |
| Background | Plain white | No patterns or shadows |
| Format | JPEG / JPG | PNG not accepted by most portals |
How to apply for PAN card online
- Choose the portal. NSDL (tin.tin.nsdl.com) or UTIITSL (myutiitsl.com) — both are officially authorised by the Income Tax Department.
- Fill Form 49A (new PAN) or Form 49AA (foreign citizens). Complete all personal and address details.
- Upload your photo. JPG format, under 20 KB (NSDL) or 50 KB (UTIITSL). White background, clear face, no glasses recommended.
- Upload your signature. Sign on white paper, scan or photograph, crop tightly, compress to under 10 KB.
- Pay the fee and submit. Online payment via debit/credit card or net banking. You will receive an acknowledgement number to track your application.
Common rejection reasons for PAN card photos
- File too large — most common reason. Compress to under 15 KB to have a margin below the 20 KB limit.
- Wrong format — submitting PNG instead of JPEG. Always convert to JPG before uploading.
- Non-white background — photos taken against coloured walls or outdoors are rejected.
- Face not clearly visible — sunglasses, heavy shadow, or hair covering the face.
- Photo quality too low — blurry or pixelated photos. Ensure your original photo is clear before compressing.
FAQ
What is the exact photo size for PAN card in pixels?
3.5 x 4.5 cm equals approximately 276 x 354 px at 200 DPI. Most portals specify only the KB limit (under 20 KB), not the exact pixels. Target 200–300 px wide with under 20 KB file size for NSDL.
What is the file size limit for PAN card photo?
NSDL: under 20 KB. UTIITSL: under 50 KB. Compress to 15 KB to have a safe margin below the NSDL limit.
Can I wear glasses in a PAN card photo?
Not recommended. Glasses can cause glare and shadow over the eyes, which are common rejection reasons. Submit a photo without glasses for a safer application.
What background colour is required for a PAN card photo?
Plain white. No patterns, shadows, or coloured backgrounds. Full face must be visible with no hair covering it.
What is the difference in photo requirements for online vs offline PAN card application?
Online: digital JPG file, under 20–50 KB. Offline (Form 49A): physical photograph 3.5 x 2.5 cm pasted on the form. Online requires a digital file that meets the KB limit; offline uses a standard printed photo.