Botswana Passport Photo Specifications

Detailed Botswana Passport Photo Requirements

The Botswana Department of Immigration and Citizenship has specific requirements for passport photographs. Below is a comprehensive guide.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in full color — black and white photos are not accepted
• Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
• The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
• No filters or digital alteration — do not retouch or digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 30 × 40 mm (3 × 4 cm)
• Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photo
• Face height: approximately 28–32 mm from chin to top of head (including hair)
• Top margin: approximately 2.5 mm from the top edge of the photo to the top of your hair
• Printed on matte photo-quality paper

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
• Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible, looking straight at the camera
• Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• Shoulders should be squared and visible in the photo

Background

• Use a plain white background
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head
• Sufficient contrast between your face and the background

Glasses

Glasses are not permitted in Botswana passport photos. You must remove all eyeglasses before taking the photo, regardless of whether you wear them daily.

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are permitted, unless worn for religious purposes (with a signed statement) or medical reasons (with a doctor's note)
• If permitted, your full face must still be clearly visible from chin to forehead
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear regular street clothes
• Do not wear uniforms
• Clothing must contrast with the white background — avoid white or very light-colored tops

Children and Baby Photos

• The child must be the only person in the photo — no parent's hands or arms visible
• The child's eyes must be open and visible
• No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible in the photo
• A plain white background is required — a sheet may be used for babies

Source: Embassy of the Republic of Botswana — Photo Requirements

How to Take a Botswana Passport Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Botswana passport photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera is more than capable of taking a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution. Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with white.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear regular street clothes. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. Remove glasses before taking the photo.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. No smiling, squinting, or frowning.

Good and Bad Examples of Botswana Passport Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions