PAN Card Photo Size & Format Requirements (2024)

Applying for a PAN card online through NSDL or UTIITSL? Getting the photo dimensions wrong is one of the most common reasons applications are rejected. This guide covers the exact PAN card photo size requirements and shows you how to resize and convert your photo for free — without uploading it anywhere.

Official PAN Card Photo Requirements

How to Resize Your Photo for PAN Card

1. Open WebConverter — Go to the Image to JPEG converter.
2. Select your photo — Drag and drop or tap to select your photo from your phone or computer. Your file stays on your device.
3. Convert to JPEG — If your photo is in PNG, WebP, HEIC, or any other format, WebConverter will convert it to JPEG instantly.
4. Check the file size — The output file should be under 20 KB. If your photo is too large, try cropping it to focus on just your face and shoulders before converting.
5. Download — Save the converted JPEG and use it in your PAN application.

Tips for a Perfect PAN Card Photo

• Use natural lighting — Stand near a window for even, soft light. Avoid harsh shadows on your face.
• White background — Stand against a plain white wall. If your background isn't white, crop tightly around your head and shoulders.
• No accessories — Remove sunglasses and hats. Prescription glasses are allowed if they don't cause glare.
• Recent photo — The photo should be taken within the last 6 months.
• Crop to passport style — Head and shoulders only, with your face centred in the frame.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wrong file format — Uploading PNG instead of JPEG will get your application rejected. Always convert to JPEG first.
• File too large — Photos straight from your phone camera are usually 2–5 MB. You need to get it under 20 KB.
• Blurry photo — Low-resolution photos after heavy compression look blurry. Start with a clear, well-lit photo.
• Background not white — Coloured or patterned backgrounds are not accepted.

Why Use WebConverter?

• 100% Private — Your photo is processed entirely in your browser using WebAssembly. Nothing is uploaded to any server, ever.
• No Data Usage — Since there's no upload, you don't spend any mobile data on the conversion. Perfect for prepaid plans.
• Works Offline — After the page loads once, WebConverter works even without an internet connection.
• Works on Any Device — Phone, tablet, or computer — any modern browser works.
• Completely Free — No sign-up, no watermark, no limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct PAN card photo size?

The PAN card photo must be 3.5 cm × 2.5 cm (approximately 413 × 295 pixels at 300 DPI). It should be a recent colour photograph with a white background, in JPEG format, and under 20 KB in file size.

Can I resize my PAN card photo without uploading it?

Yes. WebConverter processes your photo entirely in your browser using WebAssembly. Your image never leaves your device — no upload, no server, fully private. It works even on slow 2G/3G connections.

What file format is required for PAN card photos?

PAN card photos must be in JPEG format. If your photo is in PNG, WebP, or another format, you can convert it to JPEG using WebConverter's JPEG converter before submitting.