South Africa Visa and eVisa Photo 2026: 35x45 mm Size, Background, and Upload Requirements
In short. To get a South Africa visa or eVisa in 2026, you need a color photo measuring 35x45 mm on a white or light gray background, taken within the last 6 months.
- Photo size: 35x45 mm for paper submission, minimum 600x800 pixels for eVisa.
- Background: strictly white or light gray, without shadows or patterns.
- Digital format: JPEG, file size up to 1 MB.
- The face must occupy 70-80% of the photo area (head height about 34.5 mm).
- The photo must be taken no more than 6 months before applying.
What changed
With the expansion of the electronic visa (eVisa) system, the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has updated and standardized the requirements for digital photos. For a successful upload to the ePermits system, the photo must meet strict technical parameters. For paper submissions through VFS Global visa application centers, the requirements for physical photos remain unchanged.
| Parameter | Paper visa (VFS Global) | Electronic visa (eVisa) |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 35 x 45 mm | Minimum 600 x 800 pixels |
| Background | White or light gray | White or light gray |
| File format | Printed on high-quality photo paper (2 pcs) | JPEG only (.jpg) |
| File size | - | Up to 1 MB |
| Age of photo | Not older than 6 months | Not older than 6 months |
Who this applies to
These requirements are mandatory for citizens of Ukraine and other foreigners applying for any type of South Africa visa (tourist, business, work, student) either electronically (eVisa) or through consulates or VFS Global visa application centers.
What to do now
- Take a new photo: Visit a photo studio or take the photo yourself, ensuring it was taken within the last 6 months.
- Check the proportions: The face must occupy 70-80% of the photo area. The head height from the chin to the crown should be approximately 34.5 mm. The distance from the top edge of the photo to the hair is about 3 mm.
- Adjust lighting and background: Use even lighting without shadows on the face or background. The background must be plain white or light gray.
- Prepare the digital file: For an eVisa application, save the photo in JPEG format with a resolution of at least 600x800 pixels (600 DPI recommended) and a file size of up to 1 MB.
- Print for offline submission: If you are submitting documents through VFS Global, print two identical copies on high-quality matte or glossy photo paper.
Common mistakes
- Incorrect facial expression: Smiling or frowning is prohibited. The facial expression must be neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible.
- Glasses and headwear: Sunglasses and glasses with thick frames or glare will result in a rejection. Headwear is allowed only for religious or medical reasons, provided the face is completely visible from the chin to the top of the forehead.
- Photo editing: It is forbidden to use filters, retouch the skin, or artificially alter the background in graphic editors.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.
Related guides
Official sources
Questions
- Can I use my passport photo for a South Africa visa?
- Yes, but only if the passport was issued less than 6 months ago and the photo fully meets the South Africa visa requirements (35x45 mm, white or light gray background).
- What file size is required for the eVisa upload?
- The digital photo for the electronic visa must be in JPEG format, up to 1 MB in size, and have a minimum resolution of 600x800 pixels.
- Can I wear glasses in the photo?
- Only prescription glasses with clear lenses, no glare, and thin frames that do not cover the eyes are allowed. Sunglasses are strictly prohibited.