Zambia Passport, Visa, and ID Photo Requirements
Prepare correct photos for your Zambian official documents using clear size and background rules. You can use the tool above to crop your photos quickly.
Adult Passport Photos
For an adult Zambian passport, the listed photo size is 38×51 mm and submission is printed[1].
The supplied facts do not specify a head-height measurement for adult passport photos[1].
The supplied facts do not specify rules for camera distance, head position, or expression.
The supplied facts do not specify rules about hats or glasses.
Child Passport Photos
For children under sixteen years of age, the passport photo size changes to 50×40 mm[2]. You must submit printed photographs for children as well[2].
The supplied facts do not specify a head-height measurement for child passport photos[2].
For child passport photo instructions, check the passport application form[2].
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Driving Licences and Permits
A 50×35 mm photo is listed for Zambian driving licences and international driving permits, with printed submission[3].
The supplied facts do not specify a head-height measurement for these photos[3].
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National Registration Card and Permits
A 38×51 mm photo is listed as a commonly used size for national registration cards[4] and for residence, employment, and study permits[5].
The supplied facts list printed photos for the national registration card and permits, and digital submission for the e-Visa[4][6][5].
Check the relevant office's list of required documents before your appointment.
Electronic Visa Photos
A 38×51 mm photo is listed as a commonly used size for a Zambian e-Visa, with digital submission[6].
Check the e-Visa portal for its current file format and size instructions.
Follow the portal's instructions for file format and size.
Taking the Photo at Home
If you take a photo at home, use a plain, light-coloured background.
Stand about one meter away from the wall to stop dark shadows from appearing behind your head. Face a window that lets in soft natural daylight, or turn on two lamps of equal brightness to light your face evenly.
Ask a friend or family member to use a digital camera or smartphone to take the picture. Avoid using the camera's selfie mode, because front cameras often distort facial features and lower overall image quality.
Printing and Cutting Your Photos
For documents listed as requiring printed photos, check with the issuing office about acceptable paper and print finish.
Print the image at one hundred percent scale so it does not stretch or shrink during printing. Use a clean paper cutter or sharp scissors with a straight edge to cut along the outer borders.
Handle the printed pictures only by the extreme edges. Avoid touching the ink surface, because natural oils from your fingers can smudge the photo and ruin the print.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Zambian adult passport photo?
An adult passport photo for Zambia must measure 38×51 mm and be submitted in printed form[1].
Are digital photos accepted for Zambian passports?
What are the photo dimensions for a Zambian driving licence?
A 50×35 mm photo is listed for a Zambian driving licence[3].
Do I need a digital photo for a Zambian e-Visa?
Yes, the Zambian e-Visa requires a digital photo submission measuring 38×51 mm[6].
Can I wear glasses in my Zambian ID photo?
You can wear prescription glasses if your eyes are clearly visible and there is no glare on the lenses, but sunglasses or tinted glasses are not allowed.