Country guide · 🇨🇳 China · Last verified: September 2026

China Visa Photo Requirements

Official photo specifications for China Visa — size, background, head position, and submission format. Verified against cs.mfa.gov.cn.

Written by the PixID.studio compliance team · September 2026

Verified against cs.mfa.gov.cn, September 2026. Each requirement is automatically checked when you create your photo with PixID.

Size

33×48 mm

Background

White

Expression

Neutral

Ears

Both visible

Head covering

Religious only

Recency

≤ 6 months

Resolution

300 DPI

Glasses

Not allowed

Medical exception only

Photos required

2 identical

Note: Chinese embassy counters expect a plain white background. Grey or light-blue studio paper is a common “no white background” refusal.

Background and lighting

The background must be plain white, uniform and completely shadow-free. Grey or light blue studio paper is refused at many Chinese embassy counters. Requirements:

Uniform colour — no gradients, patterns, or textures
No shadows cast on the background or on the face
Evenly lit — no dark spots or bright patches
No other people or objects visible in the frame

Avoid wearing clothing that matches the background colour, as it can blend in and cause rejection.

Expression and appearance

Expression: Neutral. Mouth closed, no smiling.
Eyes: both open, looking directly at the camera. No red-eye or glare.
Ears: Both visible must be visible.
Glasses: not permitted. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited.
Head covering: Religious only. Full face must be visible with no shadows.
Hair: must not cover the eyes or obscure facial features.
Clothing: everyday attire. Uniforms not permitted.

Common rejection reasons

Wrong background — must be white. Any deviation causes rejection.
Glasses — not permitted unless medically documented.
Shadows — on the face or background from poor lighting.
Head size incorrect — face must fill 70–80% of the frame.
Non-neutral expression — smile, raised eyebrows, or open mouth.
Photo too old — must be taken within ≤ 6 months.
Low resolution or blur — minimum 300 DPI for print submissions.
Digital retouching — beauty filters or skin smoothing cause rejection.

Verified against cs.mfa.gov.cn · All checks automated

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Frequently asked questions

What are the China Visa photo requirements?

China Visa photos must be 33×48 mm, plain white background. Neutral expression, both eyes open. Photo within 6 months. Min 300 DPI. Source: cs.mfa.gov.cn.

What size is a China Visa photo?

The required size is 33×48 mm. The face should occupy 70–80% of the photo area with both ears visible and a neutral expression.

What background is required for a China Visa photo?

The background must be plain white, uniform and shadow-free. Grey or light blue is refused at many Chinese embassy counters. No patterns, textures, or objects.

Can I wear glasses in a China Visa photo?

No. Glasses are generally not permitted. Prescription glasses may be allowed with a medical certificate — check cs.mfa.gov.cn.

How recent must a China Visa photo be?

The photo must have been taken within 6 months and reflect your current appearance.

Can I create a China Visa photo online?

Yes. PixID creates compliant China Visa photos: select your document, upload a photo, and get a ready-to-use file in minutes. $4.99, 100% money-back guarantee if rejected.