South African Child Passport Photo Requirements and Guide
Preparing a valid child passport photo for South Africa requires careful attention to official rules. This guide explains the exact size, background, and submission standards you need to follow.
Official Size and Submission Rules
The official size for a South African child passport photograph is 35 by 45 millimetres, which is about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1]. Applicants supply printed photos at offices without biometric capture, while at enabled offices the photo is captured digitally[2].
For paper applications, provide two recent, clear, unmounted head-and-shoulders photographs[1]. Check with your local office whether it captures photos digitally[2].
You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the correct dimensions. The official guidance says photos printed at home may not be acceptable quality[1].
Head Height and Framing Specifications
The authority does not set a specific head height measurement for this document[1]. You should frame the photo to show a clear head-and-shoulders view of the child[1].
Keep the child centered in the frame with space around the head and shoulders. A natural, straight-on view works best for official identification purposes.
Background and Lighting Standards
Use a light grey or plain cream-coloured background[1].
Good lighting helps prevent shadows on the face and background. Face a window or use even, soft lighting so the facial features remain clearly visible without harsh dark spots.
Facial Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
The child must maintain a neutral expression with the mouth closed during the photo capture[1]. Smiling, frowning, or open mouths can lead to application delays.
Glasses are allowed conditionally, provided the frames do not obscure the eyes and there is no glare on the lenses[1]. Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, and it must not hide the face from the chin to the top of the forehead[1].
Rules Specific to Child Passports
Each child needs a separate passport[2]. For a paper application, provide two recent, clear, unmounted 35 by 45 millimetre head-and-shoulders photographs[1].
If the photo in a child’s passport no longer resembles the child, a new photo must be endorsed in the passport[3].
Taking and Printing Your Photos at Home
You can take the photo at home using a digital camera or smartphone held at the child's eye level. Keep the camera about one to one and a half metres away from the child to avoid lens distortion.
The tool above helps you crop your digital image to the required 35 by 45 millimetres size. You can then arrange the cropped image onto a standard template and print it as an ordinary four by six inch photo at a local retail kiosk.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Authorities frequently refuse photos that feature incorrect background colours, shadows behind the head, or improper lighting. Make sure the background strictly matches the light grey or plain cream-coloured requirement[1].
Refusals also happen when children have open mouths, wear unsuitable headwear, or have glasses with heavy frames blocking their eyes[1]. Check every detail carefully before submitting your application package.
Frequently asked questions
What is the exact size of a South African child passport photo?
The official size is 35 by 45 millimetres, or 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally, but they must not block the eyes or create reflections on the lenses[1].
What background colour do I need?
You must use a light grey or plain cream-coloured background[1].
How many photos must I submit with a paper application?
You must supply two recent, clear, unmounted head-and-shoulders photographs[1].
Are infants allowed to have open mouths in passport photos?
The rules state that the applicant must have a neutral expression with the mouth closed[1].