China Passport & Visa Photo Requirements (33x48mm Rules 2026)
Master Chinese visa and passport photo rules: 33x48mm dimensions, dark clothing contrast rules, and digital background specs.
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Overview of Chinese Passport & Visa Photo Rules (33x48mm)
Unlike the standard US 2x2 inch photo or European 35x45mm format, China requires a specialized 33 mm wide by 48 mm high photo specification. Chinese consulates and COVAS (Chinese Online Visa Application System) utilize automated biometric scanning software that rejects non-compliant photos instantly.
Key specs required for China photos include:
- Dimensions: 33 mm (width) x 48 mm (height).
- Head Width: Between 15 mm and 22 mm.
- Head Height: Between 28 mm and 33 mm from top of head to chin.
- Background Color: Plain white or light blue.
- Clothing Contrast: Dark clothing is strongly recommended to ensure clear contrast against the light background. White clothing is strictly forbidden.
- Jewelry & Hair: Earrings must be minimal or removed; forehead and ears must be fully visible.
Top 4 Avoidable Rejection Reasons for Chinese Visa Photos
1. Wearing White or Light Clothing
If you wear a white shirt against a white background, the biometric scanner cannot distinguish your shoulders from the background backdrop. Always wear a dark blue, black, or red top.
2. Hair Covering Forehead or Ears
Chinese embassy guidelines require hair to be tucked behind both ears and swept away from the forehead. Bangs that touch the eyebrows must be pinned back.
3. Heavy Glares or Reflection on Skin
Avoid oily skin reflections or shiny jewelry. Ensure lighting is balanced across both left and right sides of the face.
4. Wrong Aspect Ratio (Using 2x2" or 35x45mm instead of 33x48mm)
Submitting a standard US 2x2 inch photo for a Chinese visa will cause application rejection. Use Passphoto Maker's China Preset to automatically crop to 33x48mm.
China Visa Photo Quick Reference Table
| Spec Parameter | Official Chinese Standard | Recommended Tool Setting |
| Frame Size | 33 mm x 48 mm | 780 x 1134 pixels (at 600 DPI) |
| Background Color | White or Light Blue | Plain White (#FFFFFF) |
| Crown Space | 3 mm to 5 mm top margin | Auto-positioned via guide |
| Facial Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Neutral |
Traveling to China for Business or Education? Learn about visa documentation and embassy submission rules at Bharathrise Overseas Educational Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear a white shirt for a China visa photo?
No. White clothing blends with the plain white background and is one of the most common reasons for Chinese visa photo rejections. Wear a dark shirt.
What is the digital file size requirement for COVAS Chinese visa upload?
Digital uploads for COVAS should be between 40 KB and 120 KB, formatted as JPEG with 33x48mm proportion.