Featured image showing headline: PAN Card Photo: Required Size & Format, with illustration of a photo icon, JPG badge, and size limit chip for online application.

What is the required file size and format for a PAN card photo in an online application?

May 23, 2025

Wondering what is the required size and format for a PAN card photo for online application?

You’re not alone, this is one of the most common reasons for PAN application rejections.

Here’s a simple guide with everything you need to know about PAN card photo size, format, dimensions, and official tips for a hassle-free upload.

Official PAN Card Photo Size and Format

The requirements depend on whether you are applying through NSDL (Protean) or UTI. Both portals have different rules for size, dimensions, and file format.

Portal Accepted Format Dimensions File Size Limit DPI Color
NSDL (Protean) JPEG (JPG) 3.5 x 2.5 cm
(~276×197 px at 200 DPI)		 < 50 KB 200 Color
UTI JPEG, JPG, PNG 213 x 213 px (at 300 DPI) < 30 KB 300 Color

How to Prepare Your PAN Card Photo for Upload

  1. Take a clear, recent photo against a white or light background or take a picture of your physical passport sized photograph.
  2. Edit and crop your photo to the required size and format. You can use online tools like PANResizer.com for automatic resizing and compression.
  3. Check file size: Make sure your photo is not larger than the required KB limit.
  4. Save as JPG/JPEG (or PNG for UTI): PNG is only accepted on UTI.
  5. Keep color intact: Do not upload black & white or scanned copies.

Why Are These PAN Card Photo Rules Important?

  • Incorrect size or format is the top reason for PAN card application rejections.
  • The photo must match government software checks, so follow the official pixel and KB limits.
  • If your file is too big, use an online PAN photo resizer or image compressor.

Helpful Resources & Official PAN Card Application Links

NSDL (Protean) Official PAN Page
UTIITSL PAN Services
NSDL PAN Application Form

Quick Recap Table

Portal Format Dimensions Max Size
NSDL JPG 3.5×2.5 cm / 276×197 px 50 KB
UTI JPG, JPEG, PNG 213×213 px 30 KB

Final Tips for PAN Card Photo Upload




  • Don’t use selfies or filtered photos—use a proper passport-style photo.



  • If you get a “photo not as per specifications” error, recheck dimensions and KB size.



  • Store the photo safely—you may need it again for future reprints or corrections.
Getting the size and format right the first time means no PAN delays.
Good luck with your PAN card application!

Written by PAN Resizer Team,

We understand how confusing online PAN card requirements can be. After learning that many people struggle with getting the right file size, image formats, and DPI for PAN card applications, we decided to make the whole process simpler for everyone.

If you found our post and resizer tool helpful or have any suggestions. We would love to hear from you!

How to compress PAN card documents to meet upload size limits?

What is the DPI requirement for PAN card photo and signature?

Leave a Comment