Visa Services
Photo Requirements
Prepare your China visa or entry document photo by checking size, background, facial expression, head position and digital file requirements before submission.
Photo Requirements
FAQGeneral Requirements
Submit a recent, front-facing color ID photo taken within the last six months. The photo should be clear and accurately show the applicant's current appearance. Use a white or light background, and avoid casual photos, artistic portraits, re-photographed images or heavy retouching.
Photo Size
| Photo Size | 33mm wide x 48mm high |
|---|---|
| Head width / height range | Head width: 15mm-22mm; head height: 28mm-33mm |
| Background color | White or light color, preferably white |
| Number of photos | Provide printed or digital photos as required |
China visa photo specification overview
Photo recency: use a recent photo taken within the last six months when possible.
Photo Size Diagram
Face and expression requirements
- Face the camera directly.
- Keep both eyes open and look straight at the camera.
- Keep the mouth naturally closed.
- Keep the head centered and the full face clearly visible.
- Keep hair away from the eyes, eyebrows and face outline.
- Do not smile widely, make exaggerated expressions or tilt your head.
- Hats, headscarves or large accessories are usually not recommended, except for religious reasons.
- If wearing glasses, avoid lens glare or covering the eyes.
- Some application locations may not accept photos with glasses.
- Do not use obvious beauty filters, retouching or heavy editing.
Qualified Photo Examples
Printed photo requirements
- Use high-quality photo paper.
- The photo should be clear, without folds, stains or scratches.
- Do not use a re-photographed picture.
- Do not use photos with heavy beauty filters or obvious retouching.
Digital photo requirements
- The file should be clear.
- Do not over-compress the image.
- Avoid screenshots, re-photographed images or low-resolution files.
- File format, size and pixel requirements may vary by application system.
Common photo mistakes
Tip: Specific document types may have additional requirements. Follow the instructions for your application.
FAQ
Does the China visa photo need a white background?
Usually yes, a white or near-white background is expected. Always verify the exact requirement with the visa center or embassy where you apply.
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
Some application locations may not accept glasses. If glasses are worn, avoid glare, shadows or anything that covers the eyes, and check the application system instructions.
Can I use a phone selfie?
A selfie is usually not recommended. The photo should be front-facing, clear, properly cropped and compliant with the application system.
Can I use an old photo?
A recent photo is usually expected, and it should reflect your current appearance. If your appearance has changed, take a new photo.
Is there a file size limit for digital photos?
There may be a limit. File format, pixels and size requirements vary by application system, so follow the upload page instructions.
What if the online system rejects my photo?
Check the size, background, clarity, file format and head position according to the system message. You may need to retake or recrop the photo.
Are there special rules for children or babies?
Children usually still need a clear face and compliant background. Baby photos may have some practical flexibility, but requirements should be verified with the application location.
Are photo requirements the same at every visa center?
Not always. Requirements may differ by country, embassy, consulate, visa center and application system. Verify with the official application location.