South Africa · Photo requirements
South Africa Visa Photo Requirements 2026
A South African visa photo uses the same 35×45 mm specification as the South African passport — plain white background, head 32–36 mm. The same photo applies to tourist, business, study, and work visa applications. South African visa processing is done via VFS Global in most countries.
Quick specs
Photo size
35 × 45 mm
1.378 × 1.7717 inches
Head height
29–34 mm
chin to crown
Background
Plain white.
Authority
Department of Home Affairs
Key details
- Same 35×45 mm specification across all South African visa categories.
- VFS Global processes most South African visa applications.
Shared rules with the country overview
These apply to every document this country issues — see the full breakdown on the country page.
Background
Plain white. No textures, patterns, or shadows.
Expression and eyes
Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open. No smiling.
Glasses
Glasses are not recommended. If worn, no glare and eyes fully visible.
Recency
The photo must have been taken within the last six months.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo for a South African visa? +
35×45 mm — the same as the South African passport.
Does the specification differ between visa types? +
No — tourist, business, study, and work visas all use the same 35×45 mm specification.
How many photos for a VFS Global appointment? +
Two identical printed photos meeting the 35×45 mm specification.
Can I reuse my passport photo for the visa (South Africa)? +
Yes — both documents use the identical 35×45 mm specification.
Other documents in this country
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