South African Passport Photo Requirements
Preparing your South African passport photo requires careful attention to official rules. This guide helps you get your prints ready for your application.
Official Photo Size and Print Count
The official size for a South African passport photo is 35 by 45 millimeters, which equals about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1]. You must follow this exact dimension when you prepare your pictures for your travel documents[1].
The application process specifically requires two physical prints for official submission[1]. These prints must be recent, clear, and completely unmounted[1].
Check that each print measures 35 by 45 millimetres[1].
Background and Lighting
Understanding the background rules helps you set up your photo correctly. The official form specifies recent, clear, unmounted photographs showing head and shoulders; it does not specify a background color[1].
The form does not specify a background colour[1].
The form requires recent, clear photos showing the head and shoulders; it does not set lighting rules[1].
Head Height and Framing
Proper framing helps your photo meet all visual standards for your application. The official rules state that the photographs must show your head and shoulders[1].
The form does not set a head-height measurement[1].
Relax your shoulders and keep your posture straight so your upper body fits well within the required area[1]. Taking a few test shots helps you find the right distance from the camera before you make your final selection[1].
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take a photo at home, but official guidance says home-printed photos may not be acceptable quality[1].
The form does not specify camera distance, camera height, or a lighting setup[1].
Once you capture a clear shot that shows your head and shoulders, you can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct dimensions quickly and accurately.
Printing Your Photos
The form requires two recent, clear, unmounted 35 by 45 millimetre prints[1].
The photos must be printed professionally; the official guidance says home prints are not likely to be acceptable quality[1].
Use high-quality photo paper and check that each photo measures 35 by 45 millimetres[1].
How Officials Handle Your Prints
How your photos are handled during the application process matters significantly. The certifying officer endorses one photo on the reverse side and affixes the other photo to the application form[1].
The photos must be unmounted. The certifying officer endorses one on the reverse and affixes the other to the application[1].
Keeping your prints clean, flat, and free of fingerprints helps them stay acceptable throughout the review process at the office[1].
Avoiding Common Mistakes
The photos must be no more than one month old[1].
Avoid submitting blurry, dark, or pixelated prints that make it difficult for officials to identify your facial features[1]. Double-check that you have two identical, unmounted copies ready before you finalize your paperwork[1].
Taking time to verify every detail against the official guidelines protects you from having to restart your application process[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size should my South African passport photo be?
The official size for a South African passport photo is 35 by 45 millimeters, which equals about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
How many photos do I need to submit?
The application process specifically requires two physical prints for official submission[1].
What background color is required?
The official form specifies recent, clear, unmounted photographs showing head and shoulders; it does not specify a background color[1].
What happens to the photos after I hand them in?
The certifying officer endorses one photo on the reverse side and affixes the other photo to the application form[1].
Do I need digital uploads or physical prints?
South African passport applications require physical printed photos rather than digital uploads[1].