The Department of Home Affairs requires a recent passport-type full face photograph for applications that call for one, with the applicant name written on the reverse. The department states that machine-type or instant photographs are not acceptable.
For most current South African passport and identity applications, however, your photograph and fingerprints are captured digitally at the office or bank branch where you apply, so no printed photographs are needed. Confirm which applies to your application before paying a photographer.
Eligibility and Entry Requirements at a Glance
Where printed photographs are required, the following apply.
- A recent photograph, taken within the period the application specifies
- A full face view, facing the camera directly
- A plain, light background as specified by the receiving authority
- The applicant name written on the reverse of each photograph
- Not machine-type or instant photographs, which the department states are not acceptable
- The number of copies the specific application form requires
Passport and Travel Document Requirements
South African passport applications submitted at Home Affairs offices and at participating bank branches generally capture your photograph and fingerprints digitally as part of the application, which removes the need for printed photographs entirely.
Printed photographs remain relevant for certain applications, including some visa applications to other countries, permit applications and forms submitted from abroad. Check the specific form.
Visa and Supporting Document Requirements
Requirements differ substantially between countries for visa photographs. Dimensions, background colour, head size within the frame and whether glasses or head coverings are permitted are all set by the destination authority rather than internationally.
Do not assume a photograph accepted for one application will be accepted for another. Visa application centres routinely reject photographs that met a different country specification.
This page deliberately does not restate specific millimetre dimensions, because they differ by country and by application type and an incorrect figure would cause exactly the rejection it is meant to prevent.
Financial, Health and Entry Conditions
Photographs must generally show a neutral expression with both eyes open and the mouth closed. Head coverings are commonly permitted only for religious reasons and must not obscure the face.
Glasses are increasingly not permitted in biometric photographs, and where they are, there must be no glare or tinting obscuring the eyes.
For infants and young children, most authorities relax the expression requirement but still require a clear full face view against a plain background.
How to Prepare or Apply
Use a photographer familiar with the specific application. Established photographic studios and the photo services at visa application centres know the current specifications for common destinations and will reprint if a photograph is rejected.
Check the application form itself rather than relying on general guidance, since the form states the requirement that will actually be applied to your submission.
Confirm current requirements with the Department of Home Affairs, since fees, forms and processing times change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need photographs for a South African passport?
Generally not. Applications at Home Affairs offices and participating bank branches capture your photograph and fingerprints digitally. Confirm for your application.
Are instant photographs acceptable?
The Department of Home Affairs states that machine-type or instant photographs are not acceptable where printed photographs are required.
Can I use the same photo for different visa applications?
No. Requirements differ by country and application type, and visa centres routinely reject photographs meeting a different specification.
Can I wear glasses?
Glasses are increasingly not permitted in biometric photographs. Where permitted, there must be no glare or tinting obscuring the eyes.
Confirm current requirements with the Department of Home Affairs, since fees, forms and processing times change. For visa photographs, confirm the specification with the destination embassy or official visa application centre. Browse all travel and immigration requirements.