How to take the perfect baby passport photo in South Africa

Getting a passport for your baby is an important step in preparing for family travel. One critical aspect of the application process is providing a suitable baby passport photo that meets the strict requirements set by the South African Department of Home Affairs. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of capturing the perfect baby passport photo and ensuring a smooth application process.

Baby passport photo requirements and size in South Africa 

To ensure your baby’s passport photo is accepted, it must meet the following requirements:

  • The photo should be in color and taken against a plain white or off-white background.
  • Your baby’s face must be clearly visible and centered in the frame, with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
  • No objects, shadows, or other people should be visible in the photo.
  • The photo should measure 35mm x 45mm.
  • The baby’s head should be between 25mm and 35mm from the chin to the crown.
  • The photo should be printed on high-quality photo paper with no creases, scratches, or other damage.

Where to take a biometric baby passport photo in South Africa

While you can take your baby’s passport photo at home, it’s recommended to use a professional service to ensure the photo meets all the necessary requirements. Smartphone iD is the best option for taking biometric baby passport photos in South Africa. We use advanced AI technology to ensure your photo is compliant with government standards, and our user-friendly app makes the process quick and easy. Simply take the photo using your smartphone, and our app will guide you through the process step-by-step.

The cost of a baby passport photo 

Taking your baby’s passport photo with Smartphone iD is not only convenient but also cost-effective. Traditional photo studios often charge between R150 to R200 for a single passport photo, while photo booths can cost around R100 to R150. In comparison, we offer the most competitive prices on the market, while ensuring that you get a high-quality, compliant photo without breaking the bank. Plus, with our app, you can take as many photos as needed to get the perfect shot, without any additional fees

Common mistakes that lead to baby passport photo rejection 

To avoid having your baby’s passport photo rejected, be sure to avoid these common mistakes:

  1. The baby’s eyes are closed or not clearly visible.
  2. The baby’s face is not centered in the frame or is too small/large.
  3. There are shadows or reflections on the baby’s face.
  4. The background is not plain white or off-white.
  5. The photo is not printed on high-quality photo paper or has visible damage.

How to check your baby passport photo before submitting the application 

Before submitting your baby’s passport application, it’s crucial to ensure the photo meets all the necessary requirements. With Smartphone iD’s passport photo checker, you can easily verify that your photo is compliant. Our advanced AI system analyzes the photo and provides instant feedback on any potential issues, allowing you to make adjustments before submitting the application. Additionally, our team of biometric experts reviews each photo to ensure it meets the guidelines set by the South African Department of Home Affairs.

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