What photo size is needed for an Indian passport?

A 35×45mm photo with a plain white or light background and a clear front-facing expression — the same size as a British passport photo.

Can I renew my Indian passport by post from the UK?

In many cases, yes — the application is completed online and documents can be submitted by post, though some cases need in-person attendance or biometrics. We confirm the right route for your case.

How long does Indian passport renewal take?

Typically a few weeks after submission, though it varies by case type and current workload. Renew in good time before any travel.

My passport has expired — can I still renew it?

Yes, an expired Indian passport can be renewed. Bring your old passport and the required documents and we will guide you through it.

I have become a British citizen — can I renew my Indian passport?

No. India does not allow dual citizenship, so once you are a British citizen you cannot renew an Indian passport. You surrender it and apply for OCI instead. We handle both.

Do I need to send original documents?

Your original current passport is needed for a renewal. We send you an exact checklist of originals and copies for your case before you submit.

Indian passport renewal in the UK (2026): documents, photo, fees & steps

Renewing your Indian passport from the UK is straightforward once you know the steps. This 2026 guide covers who needs to renew, the documents, the correct photo size, the process, fees and timelines — plus one important point if you have become a British citizen.

Indian passports are issued for a fixed validity, so most holders living in the UK will need to renew at some point — usually as the passport nears expiry, or when it is damaged or runs out of blank pages. The application is handled through the official Indian passport and visa service partner in the UK, and much of it can be completed online before you submit your documents.

When do you need to renew your Indian passport?

Renewal applies in a few common situations: your passport is due to expire (renew in good time before travel); it has already expired; it is damaged or the details are no longer clearly readable; the visa pages are full; there is a change in your details (name, address, or appearance); or a child's passport needs re-issue, as minors' passports carry a shorter validity.

Documents you will usually need

The exact list depends on your case, but a standard adult renewal generally draws on the same core set: your current Indian passport (original, plus copies of the relevant pages), proof of your UK address (such as a recent utility bill or bank statement), proof of your immigration status in the UK (such as your visa or residence document), recent passport-size photographs to specification, the completed online application, and any supporting documents for a change of name, address, or other details.

Requirements can vary by case and are updated from time to time, so we share a tailored checklist for your exact situation before you submit.

Photo specification — 35×45mm

For an Indian passport, the standard photo is 35×45mm (the same size as a British passport photo), with a plain white or light background, a clear front-facing expression, and no head covering except for religious reasons. An off-spec photo is a common cause of delays, so it is worth getting this right — we format and check yours before submission.

Step-by-step process

First, complete the online application with your personal and passport details — accuracy matters, and the details should match your existing documents. Next, prepare your documents and a photo to specification; we check each item against the current requirements. Then submit your application by post or in person, depending on the route — biometrics or in-person attendance are needed in some cases. Finally, your application is processed and the new passport is printed and returned to you, generally within a few weeks (timelines vary by workload and case type).

Fees and timelines

The total cost is the government passport fee plus the service partner's charge, both set by the authorities and updated from time to time. Timelines also vary by case type and current workload. Because these change, we confirm the current fees and a realistic timeline for your specific case before you proceed. Our preparation service is £125 per applicant; government and VFS fees are paid separately at submission.

Common mistakes that cause delays

A few avoidable errors cause most hold-ups: an incorrect photo (wrong size, background, or expression); an incomplete or inconsistent application form; address proof that does not match the application; missing supporting documents for a name or detail change; and leaving renewal too close to travel dates. A document check before submission prevents each of these.

Have you become a British citizen?

India does not allow dual citizenship. If you have naturalised as a British citizen, you can no longer hold or renew an Indian passport. Instead, you surrender your Indian passport and obtain a surrender certificate, then apply for OCI to keep visa-free access to India. Matrix Solutions handles both the surrender and the OCI so the sequence stays in the right order.

How Matrix Solutions helps

Matrix Solutions prepares your Indian passport renewal from the UK end to end: a free case check, a tailored document checklist, completion of the online application, photo and signature formatting to the current specification, and submission support. We stay on WhatsApp through to delivery. WhatsApp us your current passport details and we will confirm the route, documents, and current fees before you start.