South Africa
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 2 document types.
Helpful pages for document photos in South Africa
Use these pages to move from country-level requirements to a specific document format, troubleshooting help, and print guidance.
Main document requirements
Open the main document requirements page for this country to see dimensions, background rules, and face-position guidance.
Why photos get rejected
Fix the most common background, framing, and expression problems.
Passport Photo Size Guide
Compare this country's dimensions with other common formats.
How to print passport photos
Print at home or at a pharmacy without scaling errors.
About photo requirements
When applying for a new passport in South Africa, adhering to the strict standards set by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is essential for a successful application. These regulations ensure that your biometric data is captured accurately for the national population register. Whether you are upgrading to a smart ID card or renewing your travel document, using a compliant passport photo is the first step in avoiding unnecessary processing delays.
The official South African passport photo size is 35mm by 45mm. Your photo must feature a plain white background with no shadows, and you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed. Glasses are generally discouraged due to potential lens glare, and head coverings are only permitted for religious or medical reasons, provided they do not obscure facial features. Ensure your head is centred and your eyes are looking directly into the camera lens.
See the full 35 × 45 mm §t:47d00c29§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
Currently, the DHA requires physical passport photos for most in-person applications at Home Affairs offices or participating bank branches. If you are using the eHomeAffairs portal for your smart ID or passport renewal, you will still need to provide physical prints at your scheduled appointment. For those preparing their own images, idpic.app offers a convenient way to ensure your photo meets the correct dimensions and lighting standards before you head to the office.
Common issues
The most frequent reasons for rejection in South Africa include poor lighting that creates shadows on the background and incorrect head positioning. Many applicants are turned away because their photos are too dark or the facial expression is not strictly neutral. Additionally, wearing spectacles often results in reflections on the lenses, which the DHA biometric scanners cannot process correctly, leading to an immediate request for a new, compliant image.
Learn more about common passport photo rejection reasons and how to fix them, or check our passport photo size guide for a global comparison.
Local tips
While professional studios in major centres can charge a premium for passport photos, you can easily create compliant images at home using a plain white wall and natural light. Always print your photos on high-quality matte paper to avoid flash reflection, which is a common issue with glossy prints. If you visit a local Home Affairs office, ensure your prints are cut precisely to the 35mm by 45mm requirement to speed up your verification process.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.
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