Chinese Visa Photo
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How To Take a Photo At Home?
Follow these simple instructions to take the perfect ID photo.

Position yourself min 16-20 inch from the camera. Ensure your head, neck, and upper shoulders are visible in the frame.

Keep your head straight and centered. Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression, mouth closed, and eyes open.

Use natural lighting for even illumination. Avoid shadows and ensure all facial features are clearly visible.
Chinese Visa Photo Requirements

Size
- 33 x 48 mm
Resolution
- 600 dpi
Position
- Head covers 65% of the photo
Background Color
Not Permitted
- Hats and caps (except religious), Sunglasses, Heavy makeup, Jewelry
Official Site Link
- www.visaforchina.cn

Important Details When Taking a China Visa Photo
Planning to apply for a China visa? It's crucial to understand the China visa photo requirements set by the Chinese authorities to ensure your application is successful. A compliant China visa photo is an essential part of the visa application process. By adhering to the official guidelines, you can avoid delays or rejections.
China Visa Photo Requirements We Comply With:
Printed Photo Specifications:
- Size and Dimensions: The photo must measure 33mm x 48mm (approximately 1.3 × 1.9 inches)
- Head Dimensions: Head width must be 15–22mm, and head height 28–33mm from chin to crown
- Head Position: Your head should occupy 70-80% of the photo, centered and facing forward
- Background: Solid white or near-white background without any patterns, shadows, or borders
- Photo Quality: High-resolution and in focus, with natural skin tones (not over or under-exposed)
- Printing: Must be printed on glossy photo paper (not matte or plain paper), with no creases, stains, or damage
Digital Photo Requirements (for Online Application):
- Format: JPEG format only
- Dimensions: Between 354×472 pixels and ~420×560 pixels
- File Size: 40–120 KB
- Upload Method: Digital photo is uploaded via the online COVA application form
- Note: If digital upload is successful, a separate printed photo may not be required
Facial and Expression Requirements:
- Pose: Face the camera directly with both eyes open
- Expression: Neutral expression with eyes open and mouth closed (no smiling or frowning)
- Head Position: No tilt beyond 20° to left/right or 25° up/down
- Visibility: Entire face and ears must be visible and clearly identifiable
Attire and Accessories:
- Eyewear: Glasses are allowed only if they are not thick-framed, tinted, and cause no glare; eyes must be clearly visible
- Prohibited: Sunglasses, tinted lenses, or any obscuring accessories
- Headgear: No headgear or hats unless worn for religious reasons (facial features must remain fully visible)
- Clothing: Normal, everyday clothing; uniforms (especially military attire) are not allowed
- Avoid: White clothing that blends with the background, heavy makeup, or unnatural appearance
Timing Requirements:
- Recentness: Photo must be taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance
Ear Visibility Requirements:
According to the official guidelines from the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the P.R. China, ears must be explicitly visible in Chinese visa photos:
-
Ears Must Be Visible: The official requirements specifically state that "ears visible" is a mandatory requirement for Chinese visa photos.
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Complete Facial Features: All facial features should be complete and clearly visible, with the head centered in the photo.
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Head Position Requirements: The head position should be ≤20° left or right tilt, and ≤25° up or down tilt to ensure proper visibility of all facial features including ears.
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No Face Obstruction: The guidelines emphasize that any facial features should not be obscured, which includes ears.
Best Practices for Ear Visibility:
- Style long hair to ensure ears are completely visible
- Avoid hairstyles that cover or partially cover the ears
- Ensure proper head positioning within the specified tilt limits
- Maintain neutral expression with eyes open and lips closed while keeping ears visible
Important Notes:
- The photo must clearly identify the applicant and meet all specifications
- Any photo that fails to meet these standards may result in visa application rejection
- Always bring a compliant photo to avoid delays, even if digital upload was successful
- Processing times and requirements may vary by consulate location
For the complete set of China visa photo requirements, please visit the official website or consult the China Visa Application Service Center.
Get Your China Visa Photo Online
At Snap2Pass, we make it easy to get your China visa photo online. Our service ensures your photo meets all the China passport photo requirements, saving you time and hassle. You can even get your China passport photo online free with our special offers.
Conclusion
Following the official China visa photo requirements—size 33 × 48 mm, white background, ears visible—is non-negotiable if you want your visa approved on the first try. Snap2Pass converts any smartphone picture into a flawless, CVASC-ready image in under five seconds and backs it with human expert review.
Need more answers? Check the related guides and news just below this article—or jump straight in and upload your photo now to create your China visa picture instantly.
Sources
All information compiled from official and authoritative sources. Last updated January 27, 2025.
Official Government Sources
- Chinese Visa Application Service Center - Photo Requirements
- Chinese Embassy in the United States - Visa Information
- Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the P.R. China - Visa Guidelines
Application Process Resources
- China Online Visa Application (COVA) System
- China Visa Application Service Center
- Chinese Embassy and Consulates in the United States
Regulatory Updates
- 2024 Tourist Visa Simplification Notice - Published January 2024
- Visa Fee Adjustment Notice - Updated 2024-2025
Related Guides
- GuideChina Visa Photo Requirements & Application (2025 Guide)7/5/2025 • 10 min read
- GuideFrequently Asked Questions: Chinese Visa Photo Compliance (2025)6/20/2025 • 4 min read
- GuidePerfect Passport Photo Lighting Setup at Home1/15/2025 • 1 min read
- GuidePerfect Passport Photo at Home with Your Smartphone1/27/2023 • 2 min read
Recent News
- NewsNew Chinese Visa Photo Requirements: Essential Guide6/7/2024 • 3 min read
- NewsChina Visa Process Update: How Snap2Pass Helps Travelers11/12/2023 • 3 min read
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