Govt FormsMarch 2026·5 min read
UPSC Photo Requirements 2026 — Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about photograph and signature requirements for UPSC Civil Services (IAS), CAPF, CDS, NDA, and other UPSC 2026 examinations — file size, format, dimensions, and how to meet them.
UPSC Photo Requirements at a Glance
| Parameter | Photo | Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Format | JPEG / JPG | JPEG / JPG |
| File Size | 40KB – 300KB (50KB recommended) | Maximum 20KB |
| Min Dimensions | 350×450 px (3.5×4.5 cm) | 140×60 px |
| Background | White / Off-white | White paper |
| Colour | Colour (not B&W) | Black/blue ink |
| Recency | Within 6 months | Recent |
What are the UPSC 2026 Photo Rules?
- Photograph must be in colour — black-and-white is not accepted
- Background must be white or light-coloured
- Face must be clearly visible — no caps, goggles, or dark glasses
- Ears must be visible in the photograph
- Photo must be recent — taken within the last 6 months
- File must be JPEG format — PNG or WebP will be rejected
- File size must be between 40KB and 300KB
How to Compress Photo to 50KB for UPSC
- Take or scan a passport-size colour photo against a white background
- Open our UPSC 50KB Photo Compressor
- Upload your photo (any size — JPEG, PNG, WebP supported)
- Click Compress — the tool automatically hits 50KB within ±2KB
- Download the compressed JPEG and verify with Image Size Checker
- Upload to the UPSC portal
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UPSC Exam-Specific Photo Requirements
UPSC Civil Services (IAS/IPS/IFS)
Photo: 40KB–300KB JPEG | Signature: 20KB JPEG
UPSC CAPF (AC)
Photo: 50KB JPEG | Signature: 20KB JPEG
UPSC CDS
Photo: 50KB JPEG | Signature: 20KB JPEG
UPSC NDA / NA
Photo: 50KB JPEG | Signature: 20KB JPEG
UPSC ESE (Engineering Services)
Photo: 40KB–300KB JPEG | Signature: 20KB JPEG
UPSC CMS (Medical Services)
Photo: 50KB JPEG | Signature: 20KB JPEG
Quick Links to Tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about using this tool — answered.
UPSC Civil Services 2026 requires: JPEG format, between 40KB and 300KB (50KB is safe mid-point), dimensions at least 350×450 pixels (3.5×4.5cm standard), white background.