South African Passport Photo Requirements

The South African passport photo requirements are crucial to ensuring your passport application is accepted without any delays or issues. To prevent unnecessary setbacks, it is essential to follow the specific guidelines set by the South African Department of Home Affairs for your passport photograph. This guide will walk you through each requirement to help you prepare your application with the correct documentation.

Understanding the Photo Size and Head Size

For a South African passport, the photo must measure 35 mm wide by 45 mm high. The face, from chin to crown, should be between 29 mm and 34 mm, occupying approximately 70–80% of the photo. This ensures that your facial features are clearly visible and meet official standards.

Background Specifications

The background of the passport photo must be plain white or light gray, without shadows on either the face or background. A clear background is critical for the biometric recognition systems used in modern passports.

Photo Recency and Number Required

Your passport photo must be recent, taken within the last six months. It ensures your appearance in the photograph closely matches your current look. Additionally, you are required to submit two color photographs.

Head Position and Expression

When taking the passport photo, your head must be facing forward directly towards the camera with both edges of your face visible. This direct full-front view is crucial for identification purposes. Ensure your expression is neutral, with a closed mouth and eyes open and clearly visible.

Guidelines for Glasses and Headwear

Glasses are permissible in your passport photo as long as your eyes are clearly visible, with no glare or reflections. It is best to avoid heavy frames and tinted lenses, as these can obscure your eyes. Sunglasses are not allowed. Headwear is generally prohibited unless worn for religious reasons. In such cases, the face must remain visible from chin to crown, allowing for clear identification.

Importance of Lighting and Photo Quality

Even lighting is essential to prevent shadows or flash reflections that can obscure facial features. The photo must be of high resolution, offering a true likeness with no digital alterations or damage like holes or scratches. Altered or defaced photos will result in rejection of your application.

Paper and Digital Submissions

If submitting a physical copy of your photo, it must be printed on matte paper. For digital submissions, a resolution of 600 dpi is required to maintain image clarity and quality. The Visafoto guide can assist you in meeting these digital requirements.

By adhering to these South African passport photo requirements, you ensure a smooth and efficient application process. Preparing your passport photo correctly from the start helps avoid potential delays, providing peace of mind as you embark on your journey.