China Passport Photo Requirements 2026

Official requirements from China's National Immigration Administration (NIA). Also covers China visa photo requirements for foreign applicants. Last reviewed March 2026.

Chinese Passport Photo Dimensions

Chinese citizens applying for a Chinese passport must provide photos measuring 33 mm wide and 48 mm tall. This format differs from the ICAO standard used by most Western countries and is unique to China's domestic passport system. The photo is printed in the passport booklet at this precise size.

The National Immigration Administration (NIA) has progressively digitised the passport application process. Chinese citizens applying via the government's online platform submit digital photos directly, which are checked by an automated system before the appointment at the immigration office.

China Visa Photo (for Foreign Applicants)

Foreign nationals applying for a Chinese visa (L, F, M, X, or other visa types) must provide photos measuring 35 mm wide and 45 mm tall — the standard ICAO format. This applies whether you are applying at a Chinese embassy or consulate directly, or through an authorised visa application centre.

For online China visa applications through the China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC), digital photos must be uploaded in JPEG format with a minimum resolution of 600×800 pixels and a file size no greater than 2 MB.

Face and Head Size Requirements

For Chinese passport photos (33×48 mm): the face must measure approximately 28–33 mm from chin to crown, occupying 70–80% of the frame. For China visa photos (35×45 mm): the face must occupy 70–80% of the frame height (approximately 32–36 mm).

Both eyes must be fully open and visible. The face must be photographed directly from the front — no profile or angled shots. There must be equal spacing on either side of the face.

Background Requirements

The background for both Chinese passport photos and China visa photos must be plain white. No patterns, gradients, shadows, or other colours are permitted. The background must be uniformly illuminated. For digital submissions, AI background-removal tools are generally accepted if the result is clean and uniform white.

Expression and Appearance

A neutral expression with both eyes open is required. Smiling or any exaggerated expression is not accepted. Glasses are generally not permitted. Hair should not cover the face, eyes, or forehead. Head coverings are only acceptable for genuine religious reasons, and the face must be fully visible.

China's NIA automated photo checking system has become increasingly strict. Photos with shadows, unusual exposure, or misaligned faces are detected and rejected before the appointment. Ensure your photo has even, flat lighting across the face.

Photo Recency

Photos must have been taken within the last 6 months. The image must accurately represent the applicant's current appearance. For child passport applications, recency is especially important as children's appearances change rapidly.

Complete Specifications Table

Tips for Chinese Visa Photo Applicants

If you are applying for a Chinese visa from outside China, the 35×45 mm format is the same as for UK and EU documents. Use PassportLayout.online to crop your photo to the exact proportions, then print it on photo paper at a pharmacy or photo lab.

Chinese visa application centres (operated by CVASC or authorised agencies) sometimes offer on-site photo services, but these can be expensive. Bringing your own compliant photos is recommended. Always submit two copies unless the application form specifies otherwise.