South Africa passport and ID photo size and requirements
The South Africa passport and ID photo is 35 x 45 mm, with the head 29 to 34 mm (face oval on the template diagram (face 70% to 80% of the photo)). Checked against the official source on 2 October 2026.
| Printed size (width x height) | 35 x 45 mm (35 mm wide and 45 mm high) |
|---|---|
| Head height | 29 to 34 mm, face oval on the template diagram (face 70% to 80% of the photo) |
| Background | light grey or plain cream |
| Who takes it | 2 identical colour photos, printed professionally on high-quality photo paper. |
| How recent | Not more than 1 month old |
Why there is no maker for this one: Home Affairs offices that capture photos digitally need none. The brochure that sets the size dates from 2009 and shows the head size only on a diagram, so this tool does not make this photo.
Official source
- Home Affairs: Passport and ID photograph specifications (hosted by DIRCO, PDF)
- Home Affairs: Travel documents
Independent tool, not affiliated with any government. Always check the official requirements linked on this page before you apply.