South African Permanent Residence Application Photo Guide
Form BI-947 asks for recent passport-type photos, but does not give their dimensions[1]. Check the requested size with the office handling your application.
Official Size and Specifications
Form BI-947 requires recent passport-type, full-face photos but gives no dimensions[1]. This article uses a common passport-photo crop size of 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 inches); confirm the size with the office handling your application.
Knowing the right size helps you avoid delays in your residency process. Since the paperwork requires a passport-type image, getting the crop right is very important[1]. You can easily adjust your photo dimensions using the tool above.
When you prepare your application, taking time to check these details prevents extra trips to the office. Double-check your measurements before printing out the final copies.
Print Format and Submission Rules
Form BI-947 requires two recent passport-type, full-face photos for each applicant over one year old, with the applicant’s name on the back. It says machine-type and instant photos are not accepted[1].
The form requires printed photos[1]. It does not specify a print-sheet layout, so confirm the photo format with the office handling your application.
Keep the printed photos clean and free of smudges. Handle them by the edges so oils from your fingers do not mark the surface.
Age Rules for Infants and Children
Form BI-947 requires two passport photographs for each applicant aged one year or older[1].
Form BI-947 does not specify a photo for applicants one year old or younger[1].
If you are applying with a toddler or older child, keep them calm and seated against a plain wall while you take the picture. A helper can stand behind the camera to catch the child's attention so they look straight ahead.
Background and Framing Details
The form requires a recent, full-face passport-type photo but does not prescribe a background colour[1].
Head height dimensions are not set by the authority[1]. Try to keep your head centered in the frame with your shoulders straight. Leave a small amount of space around your head and face.
Look for a simple background in your home, like a plain wall. Stand a short distance away from the wall to avoid harsh shadows behind your head.
Glasses, Headwear, and Facial Appearance
Form BI-947 does not specify rules for glasses or headwear[1].
Keep your face relaxed and look directly into the camera lens. Avoid smiling too widely or frowning. A neutral expression helps officials match your photo to your identity.
Brush your hair away from your eyes and face so your facial features are completely clear. Good lighting on your face makes your features stand out naturally.
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
Form BI-947 says machine-type and instant photographs are not accepted[1]. Ask the office handling your application whether a home-printed photo is acceptable.
Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera. Keep the camera lens level with your eyes. Once you have a clear picture, save it to your device.
Use daylight from a window that faces you. Avoid lamps placed behind you because they create dark shadows on your face. Have a friend or family member take the picture instead of using a selfie mode, because selfie cameras distort facial features.
Preparing Your Print Sheet
The form does not specify photo dimensions or a print-sheet layout[1]. Confirm the requested size with the office handling your application.
Write the applicant’s name on the back of each photo[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for a South African permanent residence application?
Form BI-947 does not state photo dimensions. A 35 × 45 mm crop is a common passport-photo size, but confirm the required size with the office handling your application[1].
Are instant photos accepted for my application?
No, machine-type and instant photographs are not accepted by the department[1].
Do babies need a photo for permanent residence?
Form BI-947 requires two passport photographs for each applicant aged one year or older. It does not specify a photo for applicants younger than one year[1].
Do I need to write anything on the back of the photo?
Yes, you must write the applicant's name on the reverse side of the photo[1].
What background colour should I use?
The form requires a recent full-face passport-type photograph, but does not prescribe its background colour[1].
Can I use a selfie to take my application photo?
It is best to have someone else take the picture or use a tripod, because a selfie mode can distort your facial features.