South Africa passport photo: size and rules
The printed South Africa passport photo is 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in).
- Head 29 to 34 mm
Photo specification
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Head, crown to chin | 29 to 34 mm (1.14 to 1.34 in) |
| Photos required | 4 |
Figures from the source. Last checked 28 Sep 2026. Rules change. Check the issuing authority’s current instructions before you apply.
Background and editing
The source asks for a white background. The source does not say whether the background may be edited.
Rules from the source
- Full face, head and shoulders only, mouth closed.
- No glasses; forehead clear of hair.
Can you make it at home?
No. South African missions ask for professionally taken colour photos. Check with your mission before ordering.
Where to go instead
Ask the issuing office which photographers or booths it takes. PortraitPass does not make this photo, because a print or file made at home would be turned away. Take the numbers above with you, and check the photo you get back against them.
Sources
- Photograph specifications for passports - DIRCOIssuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
- First ID Document & Adult Passport - South African Embassy StockholmIssuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
Found a wrong or outdated number? Open an issue with the source link.
Common questions
What size is a South Africa passport photo?
The printed photo is 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in).
Can I take a South Africa passport photo at home?
No. The photo has to be made by the issuing authority or a provider it names.
What background does a South Africa passport photo need?
The source asks for a white background.
How big should the head be in a South Africa passport photo?
Measured from the crown to the chin, the head should be 29 to 34 mm (1.14 to 1.34 in).
Where do the South Africa passport numbers come from?
From the issuing authority’s own pages: Photograph specifications for passports - DIRCO and First ID Document & Adult Passport - South African Embassy Stockholm. Last checked 28 Sep 2026.
Guides for this photo
Related documents
Other documents with a 35 × 45 mm print
- India passport (applied in India)35 × 45 mmNot at home
- Pakistan passport online renewal (overseas)35 × 45 mm; original file; up to 5,000 KB
- Pakistan online visa (photo upload)35 × 45 mm; width to height ratio 0.78, up to 350 KB
- UK passport (printed)35 × 45 mm
- Schengen visa35 × 45 mm
- Irish passport (printed)35 × 45 mm