Botswana Naturalization Application Photo Requirements
When you apply for naturalization in Botswana, you must include specific photographs with your paperwork[1]. You can use the tool above to prepare your image correctly.
Official Size and Dimensions
The naturalisation application lists two coloured passport-size photos[1]. It does not specify exact dimensions. A 35 by 45 mm crop is a common practical size, not an official specification.
You should always check with the issuing office or organization to confirm what they accept before you submit your paperwork. Using a standard layout helps you meet common expectations when exact measurements are not strictly published by the government[1].
The service lists two coloured passport-size photos among the required documents[1].
Background and Lighting Guidelines
The government requires two color passport-size photos but does not specify exact dimensions or background color[1]. 35x45 mm is a common practical crop size[1]. When you take your photo at home, try to stand facing a bright window for even natural illumination.
Avoid using flash if it creates harsh shadows behind your head or on the wall. A plain, light-colored background works best when the official rules do not name a specific shade[1].
Check your preview carefully to see that your face is brightly lit from the front. Shadows across your eyes or cheeks can cause an official to refuse the image.
Head Height and Camera Framing
The head height is not set by the authority[1]. Keep your shoulders straight and center your face in the middle of the frame. You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the common 35x45 mm size easily.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself. Keep the lens at your eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face to prevent distortion.
Leave a small amount of space around your head and shoulders so the final print looks balanced. Do not use digital zoom on your phone because it reduces the clarity of the image.
Glasses, Expression, and Headwear
The official rules leave glasses and headwear unspecified[1]. To prevent problems with glare or hidden eyes, many applicants choose to remove their glasses entirely during the photo session.
Keep your facial expression natural and relaxed with your mouth closed. Look directly into the camera lens so your eyes point straight ahead.
Make sure your hair does not fall across your eyes or obscure the shape of your face. Clear visibility of your facial features is important for identity verification.
Rules for Children and Families
The naturalisation source does not provide separate photo dimensions for children[1]. Check the instructions for the application you are submitting.
Taking a photo of a baby or toddler at home can take extra patience. Lay the child on a plain white or light sheet on the floor and take the picture from directly above.
For a child’s photo, aim for a clear view of the face. The source does not give separate child-photo specifications[1].
Printing at a Kiosk
The application requires printed physical copies rather than digital uploads[1]. You must supply two color passport-size photos with your application[1].
You can arrange your cropped 35x45 mm photo onto a standard 4x6-inch digital sheet. Take this file to a local photo kiosk and print it as an ordinary glossy or matte photo.
Cut out the individual photos carefully using scissors or a paper cutter along the crop lines. Keep the edges straight and clean before you attach them to your naturalization forms.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for a Botswana naturalization application?
The authority publishes no single official size, but 35x45 mm is a common practical crop size[1].
How many photos do I need to submit with my forms?
You must supply two color passport-size photos for your naturalization application[1].
Does the government specify a required background color?
The government requires two color passport-size photos but does not specify exact dimensions or background color[1].
Can I print my photo at a local store?
Yes, you can arrange your cropped photo on a standard 4x6-inch sheet and print it out as an ordinary photo at a print kiosk.
Are glasses and head coverings allowed in the photo?
Glasses and headwear are unspecified in the official rules, so it is safest to remove glasses to avoid glare[1].