Compare · 
USA · 
South Africa
USA vs South Africa visa photo: 51 × 51 mm vs 35 × 45 mm
USA: 51 × 51 mm. South Africa: 35 × 45 mm. Head height, background, glasses and file rules for the visa photo, side by side from each issuing authority.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while South Africa requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
In short
USA requires 51 × 51 mm while South Africa requires 35 × 45 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will be rejected by the other.
Specification table
Every value in this table is taken from the official publications of the two issuing authorities. Open either country page for the full rule set, the printable layout and the source links.
| Attribute | USA | South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size≠ differs | 51 × 51 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600 × 600 px | The authority does not publish this detail |
| File size limit | ≤ 240 KB | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Head height≠ differs | 50–69% | 70–80% |
| Background | Plain white or off-white background without shadows or foreign objects. | Plain white, light grey, or cream background. |
| Glasses | Glasses prohibited, except for rare medical exceptions. | Glasses must not cover the eyes; tinted lenses permitted only for medical reasons. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Strictly full face, no tilt or rotation. | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. |
| Lighting / shadows | Even light, no shadows, reflections, or digital alterations to appearance. | Shadows on the face and background not permitted. |
| Attire | Ordinary everyday clothing; uniforms not permitted, except daily religious dress. | Clothing must not blend into the background; face and shoulder line must be clearly defined. |
| Authority | U.S. Department of State | South African Department of Home Affairs and DIRCO missions; VFS Global as the visa application centre |
| Last verified | 21 May 2026 | 1 Oct 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for USA and South Africa?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while South Africa requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Which photo is larger — USA or South Africa?
USA uses the larger photo: 51 × 51 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for South Africa.
What background colour do USA and South Africa require?
USA requires: White or off-white. South Africa requires: White, light grey or cream. A plain white background satisfies both.