Complete guide to South African passport photo requirements in 2026. Learn about size specifications, appearance requirements, background, lighting, and where to get passport photos taken.
Having the correct passport photos is essential for a successful South African passport application. Home Affairs has specific requirements for passport photos regarding size, appearance, background, and quality. Understanding these requirements helps ensure your application is not delayed due to photo issues. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about South African passport photo requirements.
Photo Size:
Print Requirements:
If Digital Photo Required:
Head Position:
Face Coverage:
Expression:
Pose:
Background Color:
Background Quality:
Prohibited Elements:
Lighting Quality:
Lighting Setup:
Problems to Avoid:
Recommended Clothing:
What to Avoid:
Allowed Accessories:
Prohibited:
If Wearing Glasses:
Requirements:
Hair Guidelines:
Styling:
Religious Head Coverings:
Other Head Coverings:
Photo Recency:
When to Retake:
Changes Requiring New Photos:
Photo Studios:
Benefits:
Some Offices Offer:
Availability:
Photo Booths:
Considerations:
Size Mistakes:
Appearance Mistakes:
Background Mistakes:
Lighting Mistakes:
Photo Checklist:
South African passport photos must be 35mm x 45mm (width x height). The photos must be in color, high quality, and clear. Professional printing is recommended to ensure correct specifications.
Passport photos require a plain white background. Light gray is acceptable if white is not available. The background must be solid with no patterns, shadows, objects, or other people.
No, you must have a neutral expression with your mouth closed. No smiling, frowning, or other expressions are allowed. Your face should be relaxed with a natural, neutral appearance.
Yes, you can wear prescription glasses if you normally wear them. However, there must be no glare or reflections on the lenses, and your eyes must be clearly visible. Sunglasses or tinted glasses are not allowed.
Passport photos must be taken within 30 days of your application. The photo must accurately represent your current appearance. If your appearance has changed significantly, you'll need new photos.
Religious head coverings are allowed, but they must not cover your face or eyes. Your full face must be visible. Hats, caps, or other non-religious head coverings are not allowed.
You can get passport photos taken at professional photo studios, some Home Affairs offices (if they offer the service), or automated photo booths. Professional studios are recommended as they know the requirements and have proper equipment.
Wear plain, solid-colored clothing. Avoid white (it blends with the background), patterns, or prints. Dress professionally and modestly. Uniforms are generally not allowed unless required for your work.
No, passport photos must be taken within 30 days of your application and must represent your current appearance. Old photos cannot be used, even if they meet other requirements.
If your passport photo is rejected, you'll need to get new photos taken that meet all requirements. The rejection reason will be provided, and you can address the specific issue before resubmitting.
South African passport photos must be 35mm x 45mm, have a plain white or light gray background, show your full face with a neutral expression, and be taken within 30 days of application. Professional photo studios are recommended to ensure compliance with all requirements. Avoid common mistakes like wrong size, colored backgrounds, smiling, or wearing prohibited accessories. Getting the right photos from the start helps ensure your passport application proceeds smoothly.
For more information about passport applications, requirements, or Home Affairs services, explore our other comprehensive Home Affairs guides.
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Specializing in South African Home Affairs services, passports, IDs, and visa applications with extensive knowledge of photo requirements and specifications.