South African Visitor Visa Photo Guide
The South African Consulate-General in Toronto requests two passport-size photos with the paper DHA-84 application. It does not specify their dimensions[1].
Understanding the Size Requirements
The Toronto consulate requests two passport-size photos but does not state dimensions[1]. This article uses the common passport-photo crop size of 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 inches); it is not an official visa-photo size.
Confirm the photo size with the South African mission handling your application. Requirements can vary by mission[1].
The 35 × 45 mm crop used here is a common passport-photo size, not a published visa-photo requirement. Confirm the photo size with the mission handling your application.
Background and Lighting Setup
The consulate requests two passport-size photos but does not specify their dimensions, background colour, or facial composition[1].
The consulate does not specify a background colour or lighting rules[1]. To get a clean look, try standing in front of a plain, light-colored wall with no patterns, textures, or distracting background objects.
Turn off the camera flash to avoid harsh bright spots on your forehead or cheeks. Instead, use soft, natural light from a window facing you directly. Avoid standing under overhead ceiling lights that cast dark shadows under your eyes, nose, and chin.
Camera Position and How to Shoot
Taking a good photo means paying attention to your camera position and distance. Do not use a hand-held selfie stick or your front camera, because this distorts the shape of your face. Instead, ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you.
Keep the camera lens right at your eye level. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens. Center your head and shoulders inside the frame so you have enough space around your hair and shoulders. Keep your posture straight and look directly into the camera lens with a relaxed face.
Make sure your helper holds the camera steady or sets it up on a flat surface. If you tilt the camera up or down, your facial features will look unnatural, which might cause the office staff to ask for a new picture.
Face, Expression, and Glasses Guidelines
Your facial appearance matters when submitting official application images. The official rules do not list strict details for your expression, mouth, or whether you must wear glasses[1].
The source does not specify rules for glasses or facial expression[1]. Even though rules are not stated, taking off your glasses helps avoid glare and reflections from lights or windows.
Keep your head straight and avoid tilting it to the side. Look right at the camera lens with your eyes open wide. If you have long hair, tuck it behind your ears so your eyes and facial edges remain clearly visible.
Rules for Children and Infants
The consulate says a parent or guardian must sign a minor’s application. It does not give separate photo dimensions for children[1].
The source does not give separate instructions for photographing babies or toddlers[1]. If you take a picture of a baby, lay them flat on a plain white sheet on the floor and stand directly above them to take the shot.
For young children, make sure their eyes are open and they look toward the camera. You can have a helper hold a favourite toy near the lens to catch their attention without blocking the view of their face.
Preparing and Printing Your Photos
The Toronto consulate requests two printed passport-size photos with the DHA-84 application[1].
The source requests passport-size photos but does not state dimensions or a print-sheet layout[1]. Confirm the required size with the mission handling your application.
If the mission confirms that 35 × 45 mm is acceptable, print and trim the photos to that size. The source does not specify paper type or printer requirements[1].
What to Check Before You Submit
Before submitting, check with the mission handling your application for its photo requirements; the Toronto source does not specify dimensions or composition[1].
Remove this sentence.
Before submitting, confirm the required size with the mission. The Toronto source does not state photo dimensions or composition rules[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size do I need for a South African visitor visa photo?
The Toronto consulate requests passport-size photos but does not state their dimensions. A 35 × 45 mm crop is a common passport-photo size, not an official visa-photo requirement[1]. Confirm the size with your mission.
How many photos must I submit with my application?
The consulate requests two passport-size photos[1] along with your paper DHA-84 application form.
Are glasses allowed in the visa photo?
The official source leaves glasses unspecified[1], but removing them prevents glare and reflections on your lenses.
Are there special photo rules for children?
Minor applications are signed by a parent or guardian, and the guidelines state no separate child-photo dimensions[1].
Can I submit a digital file instead of printed photos?
The Toronto instructions request two passport-size photos with the paper DHA-84 application[1]. Contact your mission to ask whether it accepts digital photos.
Can I wear headwear in my South African visitor visa photo?
The Toronto source does not specify rules for headwear[1]. Ask your mission if you need guidance about a head covering.