Lesotho Passport Photo Requirements and Size
Get the right details for your Lesotho passport photo. Learn about official sizes, background rules, and how to prepare your application.
Official Size and Guidelines
The cited sources do not specify photo dimensions[1][2][3]. A 35 × 45 mm crop (about 1.38 × 1.77 inches) is a common passport-photo size used in practice, not a published Lesotho dimension. Confirm the required size with your issuing office.
The cited sources do not set a head-height measurement. Check with your issuing office about any photo requirements for your application.
Background and Lighting Requirements
If you are submitting your documents through the Lesotho Embassy in the United States, your photo must feature a plain background[2]. The embassy does not specify a single required background color for your picture[2]. Choose a clean wall in your home that is free of patterns, objects, or heavy textures.
Good lighting helps prevent your photo from getting rejected by officials. Face a bright window or use soft indoor lamps so light hits your face evenly. Avoid dark shadows behind your head or under your chin. A clear, well-lit picture makes it much easier to see your facial features.
Glasses, Face, and Expression Rules
For applications through the Lesotho Embassy in the United States, the embassy says not to wear glasses and to show both ears clearly[2].
The embassy says no teeth should be exposed[2]. It does not specify a required expression or say that the mouth must be completely closed.
Rules for Children and Minors
For applicants under 16, the embassy asks for a parent or guardian's consent letter and identification[2]. The Act requires one passport-size photo for offline applications without stating an age exception[1].
The embassy asks for two photos, but does not specify separate photo dimensions or handling rules for infants[2].
Submission Methods and Application Places
The Ministry says first-time adult applicants must go in person to an enrolment centre or passport office[3]. The Act defines offline applications as those made at a diplomatic mission abroad or another designated office[1].
The Act defines an offline application as one made from a Lesotho diplomatic mission abroad or another designated office, and requires one passport-size photo for offline applications[1]. The US embassy asks for two photos[2].
Step-by-Step Tips for Taking Your Photo at Home
Setting up your own photo shoot at home is simple if you follow a few basic steps. Place your camera or phone on a stable surface or tripod at your exact eye level. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens to avoid any distortion of your facial features.
Ask a friend, family member, or partner to take the picture for you instead of trying to take a selfie. Hold your head straight and look directly into the lens without tilting. Take multiple shots so you can pick the one that has the best lighting and clearest focus.
Printing and Preparing Your Photo Sheet
Once you have your correctly cropped image, you need to think about how you will print it out. Many applicants choose to arrange multiple passport photos onto a standard 4x6-inch photo template. You can take this digital file to a local retail kiosk just like an ordinary vacation picture.
If you plan to submit photos through the US embassy, confirm the required photo size and print format with the embassy before preparing them[2].
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my Lesotho passport photo?
No, glasses are not allowed in your passport photo[2].
What background color do I need for my photo?
The embassy in the United States requires a plain background, but does not specify an exact color[2].
How many photos do I need to submit to the embassy?
The embassy requires two clear photos for offline submissions[2].
What size should my passport photo be?
Do children need passport photos too?
Yes, children under 16 apply with a parent or guardian and follow the same offline photo rules[2].