Zambian residence permit photo (38×51 mm)

Official Size and Dimensions

For some residence permit applications, the Department requires a recent passport-size photograph^[1]. It does not publish exact dimensions^[1].

The commonly used size is 38 by 51 millimeters, which equals 1.5 by 2.01 inches^[1]. Because the authority does not publish a single official size, you should always confirm the exact measurements with the issuing office or organisation before you submit your paperwork^[1].

The head height is not set by the authority^[1]. You can use the tool above to crop your image to the standard 38 by 51 millimeter dimensions for practice or preparation, but remember that the authority decides whether your application gets accepted.

Background and Lighting

The official requirements request a passport-size photograph but do not specify background color or exact dimensions^[1]. Because the authority does not name a specific color, a plain, neutral background works best for your picture^[1].

Try to stand in front of a plain wall with good lighting so your face is clear. Face a window to get soft, natural light on your skin, and avoid harsh shadows behind your head or across your features.

Rules for Children

Family applications often include minors, so you need to know the age rules for photographs. Applicants aged 7 to 15 require one recent passport-size photo^[1].

No photo requirement is listed for applicants below age 7^[1]. If you are preparing paperwork for a child in the older age group, make sure to include the required photo with their application form^[1].

Submission and Professional Requirements

The published requirements call for a recent passport-size photograph for relevant applications^[1]. They do not specify that it must be printed or taken by the authority or a professional.

Even when professional capture is expected, you can still use the tool above to rehearse, check your framing, or prepare a copy for other personal uses. The tool never guarantees official acceptance, as the final decision rests entirely with the immigration office.

How to Take Your Photo at Home

You can take a preliminary picture at home to save time before visiting a professional photographer or office. Keep the camera at eye level and stand about 1 to 1.5 meters away from the lens to avoid distortion.

Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of holding the camera yourself. Keep your posture straight and look directly at the camera lens with a neutral expression.

Printing at a Local Kiosk

The published requirements call for a recent passport-size photograph for relevant applications^[1], but do not specify a print format.

Take that single 4 by 6-inch image file to a local photo kiosk or print shop. Print it out as an ordinary glossy or matte photo, then cut out the individual pictures carefully with scissors.