China visa photo: size and rules
The printed China visa photo is 33 × 48 mm (1.3 × 1.89 in). The digital photo is at most 354 × 472 px, 40 to 120 KB, as JPEG.
- Head 28 to 33 mm
Photo specification
| Photo size | 33 × 48 mm (1.3 × 1.89 in) |
|---|---|
| Head, crown to chin | 28 to 33 mm (1.1 to 1.3 in) |
| Paper | glossy finish photo paper, not matte or plain paper |
| Image size | at most 354 × 472 px |
|---|---|
| File size | 40 to 120 KB. The source counts 1 KB as 1,024 bytes. |
| Formats | JPEG |
We check sizes and positions; the issuing authority decides acceptance. Last checked 28 Sep 2026. Rules change. Check the issuing authority’s current instructions before you apply.
Background and editing
The source asks for a white or close to white background. The source does not say whether the background may be edited. The safest route is a plain wall at capture. If you replace a background, check the receiving organization’s rules first.
Rules from the source
- Head width 15-22 mm; no edge frame around the photo.
- Taken within the last 6 months, in colour, natural tone.
- Neutral expression, eyes open, lips closed, ears visible.
- Head tilt at most 20 degrees sideways and 25 degrees up or down.
- Glasses allowed except thick-rimmed, tinted or glare glasses.
Expression, lighting and how recent the photo is cannot be measured from a picture, so check them yourself.
Can you make it at home?
Yes. Print on glossy photo paper (not matte) for the paper form; the online form takes a JPEG upload within the pixel and size limits.
PortraitPass frames the photo against the head and eye lines above and exports a single photo or a print sheet, with the measurements shown so you can check them yourself.
Sources
- Photo requirements - Chinese Visa Application Service CenterIssuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
- How to upload the photo when filling in the online application form? - Chinese Visa Application Service CenterIssuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
Found a wrong or outdated number? Open an issue with the source link.
Common questions
What size is a China visa photo?
The printed photo is 33 × 48 mm (1.3 × 1.89 in). The digital upload is at most 354 × 472 px, as JPEG.
Can I take a China visa photo at home?
Yes. The source accepts a photo you prepare yourself.
What background does a China visa photo need?
The source asks for a white or close to white background.
How many KB can a China visa photo be?
The file size limit is 40 to 120 KB. The source counts 1 KB as 1,024 bytes.
Where do the China visa numbers come from?
From the issuing authority’s own pages: Photo requirements - Chinese Visa Application Service Center and How to upload the photo when filling in the online application form? - Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Last checked 28 Sep 2026.