China Visa Application Photo Requirements

I. Requirements for China Visa Application Photos

China Visa Photo Requirements (Sample from Chinese Embassy and Consulates)

For more information on the official requirements for China visa application photos, (click here) to download detailed photo samples as guidance.

Basic Requirements

1. Color: One color photo (RGB 24-bit true color), black and white photos are not accepted.
2. Background: Only white or light gray backgrounds are permitted.
3. Photo Size: The physical photo size must be 33mm×48mm.
4. Date: The photo must be taken within the last six months.
5. Quality: The photo must be clear and high-resolution, free from any damage, stains, or creases, with no shadows on the face or background.
6. Format: The photo must be a JPEG image, sized between 40KB-120KB.
7. Other: The photo should be a frontal view of the applicant, with facial features clearly visible and centered horizontally, leaving some distance from the top and bottom edges.

II. China Visa Photo Dimensions

There are specific size requirements for China visa application photos that applicants must adhere to. If the photo submitted online is unsuitable, it can be replaced before processing the application; otherwise, the visa application may be rejected. What are the specific dimensions for China visa photos? The only acceptable standard for China passport photos is 33mm×48mm.

• Digital Photos: Digital photos must meet horizontal pixel requirements of 354 – 420 pixels and vertical pixel requirements of 472 – 560 pixels.
• Physical Photos: Printed photo dimensions must be 33mm×48mm (width × height) or approximately 1.3×1.9 inches, with head width between 15mm-22mm, height (from chin to crown) between 28mm-33mm, and distance from the top of the head to the upper edge between 3mm-5mm.

Notes:

1. Hong Kong visa application photos must be between 50mm×40mm and 55mm×45mm.
2. Macau visa application photos must be 1.5 inches in size.

III. Restrictions and Prohibited Items for China Visa Photos

1. Selfies, photos with filters, blurry images, and photos that are overexposed or underexposed are not accepted.
2. Glasses are permitted as long as the eyes are clearly visible and without glare. Sunglasses are not allowed.
3. Face must be directed toward the camera, maintaining a neutral expression, with the mouth closed and without frowning or smiling.
4. It is best to wear dark clothing or colors that clearly contrast with the white background. Wearing white or near-white clothing is prohibited.
5. Jewelry, accessories, headphones, and similar devices are not allowed.
6. General applicants must not wear hats, head coverings, or masks. However, for religious or medical reasons, applicants may wear such items, provided their face (features) is clearly visible without shadows.

IV. Frequently Asked Questions and Tips

1. When to Use the Photos?

When filling out the China visa application form online, whether through the Chinese Embassy, consulates, or the China Visa Application Service Center (https://www.visaforchina.org/), you can first upload a digital photo and then download and print it along with the completed application form. If you fail to upload a photo, bring 2 qualified physical photos, one of which should be affixed to the form when submitting your application at the embassy or service center.

2. Where to Take China Visa Photos?

None of the Chinese embassies or consulates provide photo services. To facilitate applications, some China Visa Application Service Centers offer paid photo services. You can also take photos at professional studios, as long as the photos meet the requirements.

3. Can I Use 2×2 Photos or Passport Photos to Apply for a China Visa?

For U.S. passport holders, the 2×2 inch passport photo is the most common size, and most stores provide only this size. However, China visa applications have strict size requirements for photos. The standard U.S. passport photo is larger than the required dimensions. It is strongly recommended to clearly inform the photographer of the size required or use the photo services of the China Visa Application Service Center to ensure compliance.

4. What are the China Visa Photo Requirements for Indian Citizens?

The above-mentioned photo requirements for China visa applications apply to all applicants globally. Citizens from India, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other countries must submit photos that meet the same standards.

V. China Visa Application Guide

❶ Understand What Type of Visa You Need

Read about the different types of Chinese visas to determine which one you should apply for. By assessing the purpose of your visit—tourism, business, work, transit, family reunion, etc.—you can identify the appropriate visa type. The China tourist visa (L visa) is suitable for tourists, the F visa is for exchange and study tours, the business visa (M visa) is for trade, and the student visa (X visa) is for studying in China. （What are the different types of Chinese visas?）

❷ Apply for a China Visa

According to the respective visa policies, eligible applicants can submit their China visa applications at Chinese embassies, consulates, or designated entry ports. You will need to prepare and submit a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity and blank pages, a photocopy of the passport’s information page, a completed visa application form with a recent photo attached (color photo, white background, taken within the last six months, size: 48mm×33mm), sufficient visa and service fees, and other supporting documents.

❸ Collect and Review Your China Visa

The processing time for visas varies by type. Generally, applicants need 4 to 5 business days to receive a Chinese visa, and the exact pickup date will be noted on the collection slip. If you submit a China tourist visa (L visa) on a Monday, you can collect it on Thursday. After retrieving your passport, please check the visa type, duration of stay, and entry frequency for accuracy. When planning to enter China, ensure that the visa’s validity is verified; otherwise, entry may be denied.

You can visit (How to Obtain a China Visa: China Visa Application) for more information regarding visa requirements, processes, fees, and other common questions.