South Africa Passport Photo Online
Create a compliant 35x45mm South African passport photo with a precise 34.5mm head height. Our AI verifies all Department of Home Affairs requirements — photo must be taken within 1 month.
Access may vary by region
South Africa Passport Photo Requirements
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Photo Size | 35x45mm / 3.5x4.5cm / 1.38x1.77 inches |
| Pixels | Varies by submission method |
| Background Color | white#FFFFFF |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Head Height | 77-77% of photo height |
| Max File Size | No limit specified |
35x45mm. White background. Head height 34.5mm (DHA template). Photo must be within 1 month.
Our tool already applies the latest official photo requirements.
About South Africa Passport Photo Requirements
South African passport photos are specified by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). The 35x45mm format requires a plain white background and a very specific head height of 34.5mm from chin to crown — one of the most precise measurements among passport photo standards globally. This narrow target makes accurate cropping essential.
DHA also requires the photo to have been taken within 1 month of your application — far stricter than the 6-month rule used by most countries. Glasses are not recommended, and a completely neutral expression is required. Photos must be in colour with true skin tone rendering.
South African passport applications (Green Mamba and Smart ID) are submitted at Home Affairs offices. The SmartID card and passport applications are handled at the same offices. Online applications are available through the eHomeAffairs portal for citizens who bank with participating banks.
Common Mistakes in South African Passport Photos
Photo older than 1 month
South Africa's 1-month recency requirement is far stricter than most countries' 6-month rule. Using a photo taken even 5 weeks ago is grounds for rejection at any Home Affairs office.
Head height not 34.5mm
The DHA requires a very specific 34.5mm head height — narrower than most countries' accepted ranges. Generic photo tools often crop to a range rather than a precise measurement. Our AI targets this exact specification.
Background not plain white
South Africa strictly requires a pure white background. Any colour, texture, or shadow in the background will be flagged by DHA officers at the counter.
Wearing glasses or accessories
While not explicitly banned, DHA recommends removing glasses and all accessories to avoid complications. Glasses with reflections or thick frames are a frequent cause of rejection.
South Africa Passport Photo FAQ
South Africa passport photos must be 35x45mm. Background must be white. Glasses are not allowed. Expression must be neutral with mouth closed.
Our South African passport photo service costs $6.99 (approx. R130) for digital download, or $8.99 with a print template. Photo studios near Home Affairs offices typically charge R80-150 for a set. Given the strict 1-month recency and 34.5mm head height rules, our AI-checked photo reduces the risk of a rejected application.
Yes! Our AI checks all DHA requirements including the 35x45mm dimensions, 34.5mm head height, white background, and colour accuracy. We guarantee acceptance at any South African Home Affairs office or through the eHomeAffairs portal, or your money back.
Your South African passport photo is ready in seconds. Because DHA requires photos taken within 1 month, it's important to take and use your photo close to your application date. Download and print immediately before your Home Affairs appointment.
After purchase, you receive a 35x45mm digital file with the precise 34.5mm head height. The $8.99 package includes a print template for standard 10x15cm photo paper. Print at Clicks, Dis-Chem, or any Pick n Pay with a photo kiosk on the day of or just before your DHA appointment.