China Visa Photo Requirements — Complete Guide (2026)
Last updated: May 1, 2026 · Written by iChinaVisa Team
Don't let a bad photo delay your visa. The #1 reason China visa applications get rejected or delayed is non-compliant photos. Chinese consulate photo standards are stricter than US passport photos.
Official China Visa Photo Specifications
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 48 × 33 mm (approx. 2 × 1.3 inches) |
| Background | Plain white, even lighting |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Expression | Neutral — no smiling with teeth visible |
| Glasses | Not allowed — no glasses of any kind |
| Headwear | Not allowed (except religious, with face fully visible) |
| Focus | Clear, sharp, no shadows on face |
| Digital file size | Under 2MB (for COVA upload) |
| Head size in frame | Head height 28-33mm, head width 21-24mm |
Most Common Photo Rejection Reasons
- Wrong size — US passport photos are 2×2 inches. China requires 48×33mm. These are different sizes.
- Shadows on face — Uneven lighting creates shadows. Use a professional photo service with proper lighting.
- Smiling with teeth — A slight smile is okay, but visible teeth will get your photo rejected.
- Wearing glasses — Even clear-lens glasses are not permitted in Chinese visa photos.
- Colored or patterned background — Must be pure white, no off-white or gray.
- Old photo — If the photo doesn't match your current appearance, it will be rejected.
China Visa Photo vs. US Passport Photo
Many applicants assume their US passport photo will work for a China visa. It won't. Here are the key differences:
- Size: US passport = 2×2 inches (51×51mm). China visa = 48×33mm. Different aspect ratio entirely.
- Smiling: US passport allows a natural smile. China visa requires a neutral expression.
- Glasses: US passport sometimes allows glasses. China visa never allows glasses.
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