Below we answer the real-world questions searchers ask (from Google's "People Also Ask" data) so you can submit a 100 % compliant Chinese visa photo the first time.
1. Chinese Visa Photo Requirements
What is the photo requirement for a Chinese visa?
A 33 × 48 mm colour photo taken in the last 6 months. White background, head centred, 70-80 % of the frame.
How strict are visa photo requirements?
Very strict—embassies routinely reject photos with shadows, wrong size, or missing ear visibility. Snap2Pass validates every rule before you submit.
What is the background colour for a China visa photo?
Pure white (#FFFFFF) with no gradients, textures, or shadows.
What are the photo standards for a visa?
• 33 × 48 mm size
• Head height 28–33 mm
• Eyes on a horizontal line 21–24 mm from the bottom
• Neutral face, mouth closed
• Ears fully visible
• No filters or heavy editing
Do they fingerprint you for a Chinese visa?
Yes—at most centres fingerprints are collected, but this has no impact on your photo submission.
What kind of photo do you need for a visa?
A high-resolution JPEG (≥ 300 dpi) that meets the metrics above.
How does a U.S. citizen get a visa for China?
Complete the COVA form, book an appointment at the nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC), and bring your printed application plus compliant photo (or upload it online if available).
Can I wear makeup in a Chinese visa photo?
Yes—light, everyday makeup is fine; avoid heavy contouring or sparkles that could change your appearance.
Is a China visa stamped on a passport?
The visa is a sticker placed in your passport after approval; the photo you supply is used digitally in that sticker.
How do I upload a photo for a China visa?
During the COVA online form you'll see "Photo Upload". Upload a JPEG ≤ 120 kB. Snap2Pass supplies an upload-ready file that passes the CVASC checker.
Can I wear earrings?
Small, non-reflective studs are allowed if they don't cover ears; large hoops or dangling earrings are not.
What should I wear?
Regular clothing that contrasts with the white background—avoid white tops or uniforms.
Difference between a U.S. passport photo and a Chinese visa photo?
| Metric | U.S. Passport | Chinese Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 2 × 2 in (51 × 51 mm) | 33 × 48 mm |
| Head height | 25–35 mm | 28–33 mm |
| Background | White or off-white | Pure white |
| Glasses | Never | Allowed if no glare |
2. Where to Get a China Visa Photo Taken
Does CVS take Chinese visa photos?
Most CVS stores only offer 2 × 2 in photos, not the 33 × 48 mm Chinese size. Use an online tool like Snap2Pass instead.
Where can I take a picture for my visa?
• Snap2Pass (online)
• Professional photo studios familiar with Chinese specs
• Some UPS or FedEx locations with international photo service
Can I get a China visa without an appointment?
No—most CVASC locations require an appointment; walk-ins are rarely accepted.
Do photo booths do visa photos?
Rarely. Photo booths usually output 2 × 2 in prints. Check the booth's supported sizes before using.
Is there an app to take visa photos?
Yes—Snap2Pass mobile-friendly web app creates compliant photos in 5 seconds.
Can I get a Chinese visa by post?
Some jurisdictions allow mail-in service; check your local CVASC. You'll still need to include a printed 33 × 48 mm photo.
Do I need a physical photo?
If you apply in person, you must bring one printed photo plus the digital upload. Online applicants only upload the digital file.
3. What to Wear & How to Take the Photo
Dress code for a visa photo
Dark, solid colours; no uniforms, camouflage, or white tops.
How can I take my Chinese visa photo at home?
Stand one metre in front of a plain white wall, place your phone at eye level, use indirect daylight, and follow the Snap2Pass overlay grid.
What is the best colour to wear?
Medium-dark blue, grey, or black contrasts well with the white background.
Can I use a 2 × 2 photo for a Chinese visa?
No—applications with 2 × 2 in photos are rejected. Always supply 33 × 48 mm.
4. Photo vs. Passport & Other Common Comparisons
Can I use the same photo for passport and visa?
Only if the size and rules match the destination's specs; U.S. passport photos are a different size.
Can you smile with teeth?
No—neutral expression is required.
Can I take the photo with my phone?
Yes—modern smartphones meet the resolution requirement; Snap2Pass ensures correct cropping and DPI.
Is a China visa photocopy colour or black-and-white?
Your submitted photo must be colour; the visa sticker printed by the embassy is also colour.
How do I know if my photo is acceptable?
The CVASC online checker and Snap2Pass expert review both confirm compliance.
Next Steps
Need a guaranteed-compliant photo? Create yours in 5 seconds with Snap2Pass.
Related guides: Perfect Passport Photo Lighting Setup, How to Take Passport Photo at Home