Passport photo is one of the most important and crucial elements in a passport or visa. Government authorities would like to know what you look like for identification and security purposes. That is why many countries, such as South Africa, have strict passport photo requirements.
There are a lot of ways to get your passport photo taken in South Africa. But make sure that these photo software or photo suppliers comply with the standard requirements set by the South African government.
South African Passport and Visa Photo Specifications Requirements
- Passport photo must be 45mm in length and 35mm in width.
- Black and white passport photo is allowed.
- The background of the photo should be plain white with no shadows.
- No white lining on the background photo.
- The photo should be taken from the head up to the shoulder.
- Chin to crown measurement should be between 22 mm – 25 mm.
- Head accessories, such as head-gear or veil are not allowed.
- Wearing of jewelry and excessive make up is not allowed.
- Glasses are allowed provided that the lenses will not block the eyes.
- Glasses with dark lenses are allowed if the person is blind.
- Direct full face photograph.
- No tilting, bending or turning of head on the passport photo.
- Holes, scratches, pencil or ink marks, etc. are not allowed.
- Passport photos from photo booths are not acceptable.
The South African government follows strict guidelines when it comes to passport photo. Thus, you should comply with all these requirements for your passport photo to pass under South Africa’s new facial biometric criteria and newly introduced anti fraud security measures.