Question 1

What are the photo requirements for a Lesotho passport?

Accepted Answer

Lesotho passport photos must be 35×45mm in colour, with a plain white background. The head height from chin to crown must occupy approximately 70–80% of the photo height. Your expression must be neutral with your mouth closed, eyes open, and looking directly at the camera. Glasses are not permitted. The photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. Requirements are set by the Department of Immigration & Passport Services under the Ministry of Home Affairs, and conform to ICAO biometric standards. Lesotho is a Commonwealth member and a SADC member state.

Question 2

What background is required for a Lesotho passport photo?

Accepted Answer

The background must be plain white. There should be no patterns, objects, shadows, or other people visible in the background. The Department of Immigration & Passport Services requires a clean, uniform white background to enable accurate biometric facial processing. ID Wizard automatically replaces your background with a compliant plain white background.

Question 3

Are glasses allowed in a Lesotho passport photo?

Accepted Answer

No. Glasses are not permitted in Lesotho passport photos. The Department of Immigration & Passport Services follows ICAO biometric guidelines, which prohibit glasses because they can cause reflections and obstruct facial features required for biometric matching. Remove all glasses, including tinted glasses and sunglasses, before taking your passport photo.

Question 4

How recent must my Lesotho passport photo be?

Accepted Answer

Your passport photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and must clearly reflect your current appearance. The Department of Immigration & Passport Services may reject a photo that does not accurately represent your present appearance. Using a photo older than 6 months may result in your application being delayed or rejected.

Question 5

Where do I apply for a Lesotho passport?

Accepted Answer

Lesotho passports are issued by the Department of Immigration & Passport Services under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Applications are made in person at Department of Immigration offices in Maseru or at regional offices across the country. A compliant 35×45mm ICAO photo is required as part of the application. Always verify the current procedure with the Department of Immigration & Passport Services before applying.

Question 6

Do Basotho passport holders need a Schengen visa to travel to Europe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Basotho (Lesotho) passport holders require a Schengen visa to travel to Schengen Area countries, including Germany, France, and most EU member states. Schengen visa applications require a compliant 35×45mm ICAO biometric photo — the same format required for the Lesotho passport. ID Wizard produces a 35×45mm photo suitable for both the Lesotho passport application and Schengen visa applications.

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