Everything you need to know about Zimbabwean passport photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, strict dress code and jewelry rules, hair regulations, and how to take a compliant passport photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Zimbabwe |
| Document Type | Passport |
| Photo Size | 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm / 1.38 × 1.77 inches) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 34.5 mm from chin to top of hair (60–80% of photo) |
| Top Margin | 3 mm from top edge to top of hair |
| Background Color | Strictly white |
| Printable | Yes — on matte or glossy photo-quality paper |
| Digital Photo Size | 400×600 to 600×800 pixels, under 120 KB |
| Color | Color only (black and white not accepted) |
| Number of Photos | 2 identical photos |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
Zimbabwean passports are issued by the Registrar General's Office (RGV) under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The requirements are notably strict compared to many other countries. Below is a comprehensive guide.
Glasses are strictly NOT allowed in Zimbabwe passport photos. This applies to all types of eyewear — prescription glasses, sunglasses, tinted lenses. There are no exceptions.
No jewelry of any kind is permitted. This is stricter than most countries. You must remove all earrings, necklaces, facial piercings, and any other visible jewelry before taking the photo.
Source: Embassy of Zimbabwe in Washington DC — Passport Information
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these steps to take a compliant Zimbabwean passport photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera works well. Clean the lens and set to highest resolution. Ask someone to take the photo — selfies and photo booth photos are not accepted.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight and harsh shadows. Use multiple indoor light sources if needed.
Face the camera directly with a neutral expression. Both eyes open, mouth closed. Keep your head level. Remove all jewelry and glasses. Tie hair back to show both ears. Wear a dark-colored top.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos
A Zimbabwe passport photo must be exactly 35×45 mm (3.5×4.5 cm) — the ICAO standard format. Your head should measure approximately 34.5 mm from chin to top of hair, occupying 60–80% of the photograph.
No. All jewelry is strictly prohibited — earrings, necklaces, facial piercings, and any other visible jewelry must be removed before taking the photo.
No. Glasses are strictly NOT allowed in Zimbabwe passport photos — no exceptions. This includes prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses.
You must wear a dark or bright-colored top (black, navy, red, green, etc.). Cream and white tops are explicitly NOT allowed as they blend with the white background.
Yes. Both ears must be clearly visible. Tie your hair back and do not wear braids or wigs.
No. Photo booth photos are explicitly not accepted for Zimbabwe passport applications. Have someone take your photo with a proper camera or smartphone.
Yes! Upload your photo to Passport Size Photo and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all Zimbabwe passport requirements.
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