South Africa Visa Photo Size and Requirements
South Africa visa photos are 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) on a light grey or cream background. The head height should be 29–34 mm (64–76% of photo height). Glasses are allowed only if you need them, with clear lenses and no glare. The photo must be taken within the last month.
Upload a photo and Auto Generate sizes it to these rules. Try it free; pay only to download the finished photo.
At a glance
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Background | Light Grey / Cream |
| Glasses | Only if needed: clear lenses, no glare |
| Print resolution | 300 dpi or more |
Official requirements
- Light grey or cream background, no shadows or patterns
- Head height 29–34 mm (64–76% of photo height); face and shoulders visible
- Eyes open and clearly visible, looking at camera
- Neutral expression, mouth closed
- Glasses only if you need them: no tint, no glare, frames clear of the eyes
- Taken within last month
- Two identical prints on photo paper
How it works
- Upload a clear, front-facing photo against a plain wall.
- Choose South Africa Visa and press Auto Generate: the photo is cropped and sized to the rules above.
- Review the compliance check, then download the photo and a printable sheet.
Source: vfsglobal.com, visa.vfsglobal.com. Last checked 14 October 2026.
The office that issues your passport or visa decides whether to accept a photo. Rules change, so check the official page before you apply.