
UPSC Photo and Signature Instructions 2026: As per the latest UPSC CSE Notification 2026, candidates must strictly follow the updated UPSC Photo and Signature Instructions 2026 while filling the online application form. The Commission has introduced live photo capture and clearer upload checks to ensure identity verification and reduce form rejection.
Many applications get rejected every year due to incorrect photo or signature uploads. Here, you can explore the UPSC new photo and signature guidelines, live photo upload rules, common problems, and tips to avoid rejection of the application form.
The UPSC New Photo and Signature Instructions for 2026 include the following major changes:
Mandatory UPSC live photo upload during application submission.
Live photo must match the uploaded passport-size photo.
Signature must contain three vertical signatures in one image.
No correction allowed after final form submission.
These updates are part of the revised UPSC photo and signature instructions aimed at preventing impersonation and technical errors.
UPSC has introduced new photo and signature upload guidelines for the UPSC CSE Exam 2026. Below are the details of the new instructions:
While uploading your photograph, follow these rules carefully:
File format must be JPG/JPEG.
File size should be 20 KB to 200 KB.
Photo should be recent and clearly visible.
Background must be plain white.
Face should cover about 75% of the photo.
No cap, mask, or heavy shadows on face.
Failure to follow these UPSC new photo and signature guidelines can lead to rejection at any stage of the exam.
Also Read: UPSC Form Filling New Rules 2026
One of the most important changes is the UPSC live photo upload feature.
Live photo is captured during the application process.
You must allow camera access on your device.
Photo should be taken in good lighting.
Face must be straight and clearly visible.
The live image is compared with the uploaded photo. Mismatch can cause UPSC live photo upload problem and form rejection.
Candidates must also follow strict rules while UPSC Uploading of Signature:
Use black ink only.
Sign on plain white paper.
Make three signatures vertically (one below the other).
Scan and upload all three signatures in one image.
File format: JPG/JPEG.
File size: 20 KB to 100 KB.
Typed or digital signatures are not accepted under UPSC signature upload instructions.
Many candidates face UPSC photo upload issue or live capture errors. Common reasons include:
Incorrect file size or format
Poor lighting during live photo capture
Camera permission blocked
Heavy website traffic.
Use updated Chrome or Firefox browser.
Enable camera permissions.
Capture live photo in daylight or white lighting.
Retry during non-peak hours.
These steps usually resolve most UPSC live photo upload instructions related errors.
The official UPSC Photo and Signature Instructions 2026, as issued by the Commission, are provided here for reference to help candidates upload their photograph and signature exactly as prescribed in the notification.
The table below clearly outlines the required format, file size, background, and other technical specifications for uploading a photograph and signature as per UPSC Photo and Signature Guidelines 2026.
|
UPSC Photo and Signature Specifications |
||
|
Requirement |
Photograph |
Signature |
|
Format |
JPG/JPEG |
JPG/JPEG |
|
Size |
20-200 KB |
20-100 KB |
|
Background |
Plain White |
Plain White |
|
Ink Colour |
- |
Black |
|
Live Capture |
Mandatory |
Not Required |
Following these UPSC Photo and Signature Upload guidelines properly can save you from last-minute stress.
Preview images before final submission
Do not upload blurred or edited photos
Ensure the live photo matches the uploaded photo
Submit the form well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.