Good to know: Smart ID offices, automated offices and bank branches take the photo themselves. Printed photos (two, no more than a month old) are for other offices and some missions abroad, and home prints are often refused: have the sheet printed as a photo.
South African passport or ID photo requirements
Home Affairs’ photo sheet asks for 35 × 45 mm with the face 29–34 mm, 70–80 % of the photo, on light grey or plain cream, no more than a month old. Smart ID and automated offices capture the photo digitally, so printed photos are mainly for other offices and missions.
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head | 29–34 mm from the chin to the top of the head |
| Background | A plain light grey or cream background |
| Glasses | Eyes clearly visible, no reflection, no tinted lenses or heavy frames. |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open, looking straight at the camera |
| Prints needed | 2 |
Source: dirco.gov.za, dha.gov.za (2026-11-09).
Taking a South African passport or ID photo
Stand in front of a plain light grey or cream background. Glasses are a risk: take them off if they catch the light. Keep a neutral face with your mouth closed.
Printing South Africa photos
8 fit on a 4×6 print, 9 on a 5×7, 25 on A4 and 25 on US Letter; the office wants 2.
Questions
What size is a South African passport or ID photo?
35 × 45 mm, with the head 29–34 mm from the chin to the top of the head.
Can I take a South African passport or ID photo at home?
Usually, yes. Smart ID offices, automated offices and bank branches take the photo themselves. Printed photos (two, no more than a month old) are for other offices and some missions abroad, and home prints are often refused: have the sheet printed as a photo.
Other photos
- 35 × 45 mm photo 35×45 mm
- UK passport 35×45 mm
- Schengen visa 35×45 mm
- German passport (applying abroad) 35×45 mm
- Every passport and visa photo