Zambia Passport Photo (38×51 mm / 1.5×2 inch) Requirements and Size Guide
Everything you need to know about Zambian passport photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, hair and dress code rules, and how to take a compliant ICAO-standard passport photo at home.
Zambia Passport Photo Specifications
Requirement
Specification
Country
Zambia
Document Type
Passport
Photo Size
38 × 51 mm (1.5 × 2 inches)
Alternative Size
35 × 45 mm (ICAO standard, accepted by some missions)
Resolution (DPI)
600
Head Size
70–80% of photo (~31–36 mm from chin to crown)
Background Color
Plain white
Printable
Yes — on matte or glossy photo-quality paper
Color
Color only (black and white not accepted)
Number of Photos
2 identical photos (one endorsed by recommender)
Recency
Taken within the last 6 months
Zambia Passport Photo Size Diagram
Key measurements: The photo must be 38×51 mm (1.5×2 inches) — slightly narrower than the ICAO 35×45 mm standard. Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph, approximately 31–36 mm from chin to crown. Both ears must be clearly visible.
Zambia-specific rules: No artificial or plaited hair (braids, extensions). No earrings for female applicants. Both ears must be visible. Dark-colored top (black, navy, or gray) recommended. One photo must be endorsed on the reverse by a recommender.
Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI-powered tool will automatically crop to the correct 38×51 mm size, remove and replace the background with white, adjust the head size, and ensure your photo meets all Zambia passport requirements.
Detailed Zambia Passport Photo Requirements
Zambian passports are issued by the Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security. From September 2025, only ICAO-compliant photographs are accepted. Below is a comprehensive guide.
Photo Basics
Your photo must be in color — black and white not accepted
Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
The photo must be clear, sharp, and in focus
No filters or editing — do not digitally alter your appearance
Must reflect your current appearance
Size and Dimensions
Photo size: 38 × 51 mm (1.5 × 2 inches)
Some Zambian missions also accept 35 × 45 mm (ICAO standard)
Head height: approximately 31–36 mm from chin to crown (70–80% of photo)
Printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper
Pose and Expression
Face the camera directly — head not tilted or turned
Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
Both ears must be visible — this is mandatory for Zambian passport photos
Ensure your entire face and top of shoulders are visible
Background
Use a plain white background
No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
No shadows on your face or behind your head
Glasses
Glasses are not recommended for Zambian passport photos. If you must wear them, ensure there is no reflection and your eyes are fully visible. Tinted lenses and sunglasses are never permitted.
Hair Rules (Zambia-Specific)
No artificial or plaited hair — braids, extensions, and wigs are not permitted
Natural hair should be tied back to show both ears
No loose hair covering the face or ears
Earrings and Jewelry
No earrings are permitted for female applicants
Other visible jewelry should be kept to a minimum
Head Coverings
No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn for religious purposes
If worn for religious reasons, your full face and both ears must still be clearly visible
Clothing
Wear a dark-colored top — black, navy blue, or gray is recommended
Do not wear uniforms
Avoid wearing white or very light-colored tops that blend with the background
Recommender Endorsement
One of the two photos must be endorsed on the reverse side by a recommender — a person of standing in the community who can verify your identity. The recommender should write "I certify that this is a true likeness of [your name]" and sign the back of the photo.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these steps to take a compliant Zambian passport photo at home using your smartphone.
1
Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera
Any modern smartphone camera works well. Clean the lens and set to highest resolution. Ask someone to take the photo — selfies have the wrong angle.
2
Find Good Lighting
Stand facing a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight and harsh shadows. Use multiple indoor light sources if needed.
Tip: Our AI tool will automatically replace your background with white.
3
Pose and Expression
Face the camera directly with a neutral expression. Both eyes open, mouth closed. Keep your head level. Tie your hair back to show both ears. Remove earrings. Wear a dark-colored top.
Good and Bad Examples of Zambia Passport Photos
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Zambia passport photo?
A Zambia passport photo must be 38×51 mm (1.5×2 inches) — slightly narrower than the ICAO 35×45 mm standard. Some Zambian missions also accept the 35×45 mm format. Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph.
Can I wear earrings in my Zambia passport photo?
No. Earrings are NOT permitted in Zambian passport photos. All ear jewelry must be removed before taking the photo.
Can I have braided or plaited hair?
No. Artificial or plaited hair (braids, extensions, wigs) is strictly NOT allowed. Your natural hair should be tied back so that both ears are clearly visible.
What color top should I wear?
A dark-colored top is recommended — black, navy blue, or gray. Avoid white or very light colors that blend with the white background.
Do both ears need to be visible?
Yes. Both ears must be clearly visible in Zambian passport photos. This is a strict requirement enforced by the Zambian immigration authorities.
What is a recommender endorsement?
One of your two photos must be endorsed on the reverse side by a recommender — a person of standing in your community. They write "I certify that this is a true likeness of [your name]" and sign the back of the photo.
Can I take my Zambia passport photo with my phone?
Yes! Upload your photo to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all Zambia passport requirements.
