Applying for a South African passport requires submitting a photo that meets specific requirements. The passport photo size, background, lighting, and other factors must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure acceptance. In this article, we’ll guide you through the South African passport photo requirements and size, helping you get it right the first time.
South African passport photo size
The printed size of your South African passport photo should meet these dimensions:
- Width: 35 millimeters (mm)
- Height: 45 millimeters (mm)
The photo should feature a close-up of your head and shoulders, with your head occupying a significant portion of the frame. The head size should adhere to the following guideline:
- Height: between 29 millimeters (mm) and 34 millimeters (mm)
This means that roughly 70% to 80% of the photo’s vertical space should be dedicated to your head.
Regarding face size, the face must occupy 70-80% of the photo height, ensuring clear visibility of facial features.
The distance from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head (excluding hair) should be between 25mm and 35mm. Ensure the face is evenly lit, with no shadows or reflections, and that it is clearly distinguishable from the background.
For digital passport photos, the image resolution should be 600 dpi.
South African Passport Photo Requirements
- Background:
- Color: The background should be plain white or off-white, without any patterns, textures, or shadows.
- Clarity: The background should be clear and free of any objects or distractions.
- Color: The background should be plain white or off-white, without any patterns, textures, or shadows.
- Lighting and quality:
- Even lighting: The photo should have even lighting across the face, without any shadows or bright spots.
- No reflections: There should be no reflections or glare on the face, glasses, or background.
- High resolution: The photo should be clear, sharp, and in focus, with no pixelation or blurriness.
- Even lighting: The photo should have even lighting across the face, without any shadows or bright spots.
- Pose and expression:
- Neutral expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression, with your mouth closed and eyes open.
- Head position: Face the camera directly, with your head straight and centered.
- Eyes and gaze: Look directly at the camera with a natural, forward gaze.
- Neutral expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression, with your mouth closed and eyes open.
- Glasses and headgear:
- Glasses: If you normally wear glasses, you can keep them on for the photo. However, ensure there is no glare or reflection on the lenses, and that your eyes are clearly visible.
- Head coverings: Religious head coverings are allowed, but they must not cast shadows on the face or obscure facial features.
- Glasses: If you normally wear glasses, you can keep them on for the photo. However, ensure there is no glare or reflection on the lenses, and that your eyes are clearly visible.
- Clothing:
- Contrast: Wear clothing that contrasts with the background, avoiding white or off-white tops.
- No uniforms: Do not wear uniforms or clothing resembling uniforms in the photo.
- Contrast: Wear clothing that contrasts with the background, avoiding white or off-white tops.
- Photo age:
- Recent: The photo should be taken within the last six months to ensure it accurately represents your current appearance.
Get your passport photo with Smartphone iD
The Smartphone iD app makes it easy for you to obtain a passport photo that meets all the necessary requirements. Our app uses advanced AI technology to guide you through the process, ensuring your photo adheres to the specified size, background, lighting, and other criteria. Plus, our team of biometric experts reviews each photo for compliance, ensuring you with guaranteed acceptance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are there specific requirements for babies & children’s passport photos?
Yes, babies and children must also adhere to the same passport photo requirements. Ensure the child is awake, looking directly at the camera, and has a neutral expression. No other people or objects should be visible in the photo.
2. What background color is required for a South African passport photo?
The background should be plain white or off-white, without any patterns, textures, or shadows.
3. What type of lighting should be used for a passport photo?
The photo should have even lighting across the face, without any shadows or bright spots. Natural lighting or studio lighting can be used, as long as it provides even illumination.
4. Can I wear glasses in my South African passport photo?
Yes, you can wear glasses if you normally do so. However, ensure there is no glare or reflection on the lenses, and that your eyes are clearly visible.
5. Are there any restrictions on head coverings in the photo?
Religious head coverings are allowed, but they must not cast shadows on the face or obscure facial features. No other head coverings or hats are permitted.
6. What resolution is required for a digital South African passport photo?
The image resolution should be 600 dpi for digital passport photos.
7. Is it necessary to use professional photography services for the passport photo?
No, it is not necessary to use professional photography services. With the Smartphone iD app, you can easily take your own passport photo that meets all the required specifications.
8. What should I do if my passport photo does not meet the requirements?
If your passport photo does not meet the requirements, you will need to retake the photo. Use the Smartphone iD app to ensure your photo adheres to all the necessary criteria before submitting it with your passport application.
9. Are earrings or other jewelry allowed in a passport photo?
Yes, you can wear simple earrings or other minimal jewelry in your passport photo. However, avoid wearing anything that obscures facial features or casts shadows on the face.
10. What should I wear for my passport photo?
Wear clothing that contrasts with the background, avoiding white or off-white tops. Do not wear uniforms or clothing resembling uniforms in the photo. Opt for simple, solid-colored clothing that ensures your face is the main focus of the image.
Continue Reading
- Postnet passport photos
- Where to get high-quality passport photos in South Africa
- Where to print passport photos in South Africa
- How to take the perfect baby passport photo in South Africa
- Getting the perfect passport photo with a smartphone app
- How to get a passport photo online
- How to get a digital passport photo
