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China Visa Photo Requirements

48mm x 33mm · Plain white background · Taken within 6 months — exact specs and the reasons photos get rejected.

Quick answer: A China visa photo must be 48mm x 33mm, in color, on a plain white background, taken within the last 6 months, showing your full face and both ears, with a neutral expression and no glasses or headwear (except for religious reasons).

Size and format

  • Dimensions: 48mm (height) x 33mm (width)
  • Color: full-color, high resolution
  • Head size: head height about 28 to 33mm, centered

Background and appearance

  • Plain white or off-white background, no shadows or patterns
  • Full face, front view, eyes open, neutral expression
  • Both ears visible; no heavy makeup
  • No glasses, hats, or headwear (religious headwear allowed only if it does not obscure the face)

Recency and quality

  • Taken within the last 6 months
  • No digital alterations, no filters
  • No scanned or pixelated images

Common reasons photos get rejected

  • Wrong size (for example, a 2x2 inch passport photo used instead)
  • Colored or busy background
  • Glasses, big smile, or tilted head
  • Old photo that no longer matches your appearance

Related pages

FAQ

Q: What size photo does a China visa need?

A: 48mm x 33mm (height x width), color, on a plain white background. This differs from the 2x2 inch U.S. passport photo, so do not reuse one without resizing.

Q: Can I wear glasses in my China visa photo?

A: Generally no. Remove glasses to avoid reflections or tinted lenses. Headwear is allowed only for religious reasons and must not cover the face.

Q: How recent must the photo be?

A: Taken within the last 6 months and matching your current appearance. Old or heavily edited photos are commonly rejected.

Q: Can I use the same photo as my U.S. passport?

A: Only if it meets the 48x33mm China spec and was taken within 6 months. U.S. passport photos are 2x2 inch, so they usually need to be re-cropped or resized.

Q: What background is required?

A: A plain white or light off-white background with no objects, shadows, or patterns behind you.

Disclaimer: This page is for visa consulting and document preparation reference only. It is not legal advice, does not represent any embassy, consulate, or visa authority, and does not guarantee any visa outcome. Consulate addresses, office hours, and jurisdictions may change at any time; all information is subject to the latest published rules of the relevant authorities.

Last reviewed: 2026-08-22