South Africa Passport & ID Photo App

A South African passport is a document used for international travel, and a South African ID card is used for identification within South Africa. Still, both of them have identical photo requirements.

In this article, you will learn how to take flawless photos for a South African passport and ID using the best photo maker — 7ID App.

Convert your photo to a South Africa passport photo size
Edit the passport photo background
Get the template for printing
How to take a compliant passport picture at home?
How to print out an ID photo taken with a phone?
South Africa ID photo requirements checklist
Not just an ID photo maker!

Convert Your Photo to South Africa Passport Photo Size

The dimensions for South African passport and ID photos are 35×45 mm, with a print resolution of more than 600 dpi.

Using 7ID's passport photo app, you can quickly convert your photo to the required passport size, including correct head size and eye line requirements. The app supports different passport photo formats. Select your country and document type; the app will configure the settings.

Edit the Passport Photo Background

The background for a South African passport and ID photo must be light gray or plain cream.

To achieve this, the 7ID app can adjust the photo's background. Our 7ID Expert tool works with various backgrounds.

Get the Template for Printing

7ID provides a passport photo template in two versions:

for online applications on the eHomeAffairs official website;
for printing on 10×15 cm (4×6 inch) photo paper. Each printout consists of two photos for your passport application.

The 7ID app is available for Android or iOS.

How to Take a Compliant Passport Picture at Home?

Avoid the hassle by taking your passport photo at home. Follow these steps to get the perfect South African passport and ID photo using only your smartphone:

Get natural light, such as near a window, to eliminate harsh shadows.
Place your phone on a stable surface or tripod for clear, focused shots.
Maintain a straight posture, look directly at your device, and keep a neutral face with open eyes.
Take multiple photos and choose the best one, leaving enough space for cropping with the 7ID app.
With a single click, quickly upload your selected photo to the app and let 7ID take care of formatting and background modification.

How to Print out an ID Photo Taken with a Phone?

South African passport photo printing template

You will need two identical color photos for a South African passport and for a South African ID.

You will need a color printer and high-quality 4×6 inch (10×15 cm) photo paper to print at home. Access the template provided by 7ID on your computer, set your printer to the paper size specified, and print.

Many online photo services can print your South African passport photo, typically offering a website and mobile apps. They charge R4.95 per set for high-quality prints, with final costs depending on delivery. Examples of such services in South Africa include:

To get your South Africa passport and ID photo printed online, follow these steps:

Start by selecting an online photo service in South Africa, as mentioned above.
Upload your digital South Africa passport photo to their mobile app or website.
Specify the dimensions of the passport print set to 4×6 inches.
Enter your details.
Complete the online payment and pick up your photos from a local store the same day.

South Africa ID Photo Requirements Checklist

South African Smart ID and passport photos must meet the following specifications:

The dimensions must be 35 mm wide and 45 mm high;
the digital photo resolution for online submissions should be 600 DPI;
your face must fill 70-80% of the photo;
the background should be light gray or a solid cream color;
ensure that the photo is sharp, clear, focused, and not distorted or pixelated;
maintain even lighting and contrast;
you should look directly at the camera with your eyes wide open;
maintain a neutral facial expression;
your photo should reflect your natural skin and eye color;
your face must be centered and straight;
prescription eyeglasses are acceptable if the lenses are not shaded and do not cover your face;
no other headwear is allowed except for religious reasons;
be sure to print your photos on high-quality photo paper.

Please note that the rules for the South African passport and ID photo are the same as the rules for the South African visa.

Not Just an ID Photo Maker!

In addition to adjusting passport and ID photo dimensions, the 7ID app simplifies the handling of QR codes, barcodes, digital signatures, and PINs:

QR and Barcode Organizer: This offline feature allows you to keep all your access codes, discount coupon barcodes, and vCards in one place.
PIN Code Safekeeper: Use this feature to securely store bank card PINs, passwords, and digital lock codes.
E-Signature: Quickly and easily add digital signatures to documents, including PDFs and Word documents.

7ID is your handy assistant that guarantees a professional and compliant passport and ID photo without leaving your home.