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UPSC Photo and Signature Instructions 2026: New Guidelines, Live Photo Upload Rules

UPSC Photo and Signature Instructions 2026 introduce mandatory live photo capture and stricter upload rules. Candidates must follow the exact photo size, background, and signature format to avoid rejection. Upload errors can’t be corrected after the final submission, so follow the instructions carefully.
authorImageSiddharth Pandey7 Feb, 2026
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UPSC Photo and Signature Instructions 2026

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.

UPSC New Photo and Signature Guidelines 2026

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 Photo and Signature Guidelines 2026

UPSC has introduced new photo and signature upload guidelines for the UPSC CSE Exam 2026. Below are the details of the new instructions:

UPSC Photo Upload 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

UPSC Live Photo Upload Instructions

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.

UPSC Uploading of Signature Instructions

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.

Common Issues In UPSC Photo Upload & Solutions

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.

How to Fix UPSC Live Photo Upload Problem

  • 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.

Official UPSC Photo and Signature Instructions 2026

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.

UPSC Photo and Signature Specifications

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

Important Tips for UPSC Photo and Signature Upload

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.

UPSC Photo and Signature Instructions 2026 FAQs

What are the UPSC New Photo and Signature Instructions for 2026?

UPSC has introduced live photo capture and stricter upload checks. Candidates must upload a recent photo, capture a live image, and upload a three-signature image in the prescribed format.

What should I do if I face an UPSC photo upload issue?

Check image format, file size, background, and browser compatibility. Most UPSC photo upload issues occur due to size or lighting problems.

How can I solve the UPSC live photo upload problem?

Ensure camera permissions are enabled, use good lighting, and avoid peak hours. Stable internet also helps during UPSC live photo upload.

Can I upload a blue ink signature as per UPSC signature upload instructions?

No, only black ink signatures on white paper are allowed under UPSC Uploading of Signature rules.

Is live photo mandatory as per UPSC Photo and Signature Guidelines 2026?

Yes, Live photo capture is compulsory and is matched with the uploaded photo for identity verification.
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