Last Updated: June 2026
Complete specifications for Chinese passport applications (Public Security Bureau) and China visa applications. Covers the 33×48mm standard format, background, expression, and submission guidelines.
Complete official photo specifications. Meet every requirement to avoid costly application delays.
| Requirement | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photo Size | 33×48mm | Chinese passport standard format |
| Head Size | 22–33mm | From chin to top of head in photo |
| Background | Pure white | No shadows, patterns, or other colors |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Both eyes open, looking at camera |
| Glasses | Not Allowed | Prohibited for all Chinese passport photos |
| Head Coverings | Not Allowed | Except for religious/medical needs |
| Recency | Within last 6 months | Current appearance required |
| Color | Color Required | High-color fidelity, natural skin tones |
| Quantity | 2 photos required | Both for PSB submission |
| China Visa Size | 33×48mm | Same format for visa applications |
| DPI | 600 DPI minimum | High resolution, sharp focus |
| Face Coverage | 70–80% of frame | Head centered, ears visible |
Chinese passports are issued by the Public Security Bureau (PSB) through Exit-Entry Administration Bureaus. Applications require in-person submission.
Chinese passport requirements specify that both ears should be clearly visible and not obscured by hair. Pull hair back if necessary.
China requires accurate, natural color representation. Photos with heavy filtering, whitening effects, or color correction beyond normal are rejected.
The same 33×48mm format applies to Chinese visa applications at Chinese embassies worldwide. Visitors to China need photos in this specific size.
China is strict about pure white backgrounds. Cream, off-white, or grey is not accepted. Our tool applies exact pure white (RGB 255, 255, 255).
For first-time passports, Chinese citizens may need hukou (household registration) documentation. Photo requirements are the same regardless.
Follow these steps to generate a compliant, print-ready China passport photo in minutes.
Use a plain white wall as your background. Ensure your face is evenly lit from the front without shadows. Look directly at the lens with a neutral expression and closed mouth. Both ears should be visible.
Choose 'China' in the country selector. The tool sets exact 33×48mm dimensions and applies a pure white background compliant with Public Security Bureau (PSB) standards.
The compliance checker verifies that your head fills 22–33mm of the 48mm frame height. Adjust crop if needed. Both eyes must be open and clearly visible.
Download and print two identical 33×48mm photos on glossy photo paper. Submit to your local PSB passport office or Chinese embassy/consulate for visa applications.
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about China passport photo requirements.
Applying for visas across multiple countries? Check exact requirements for each.
Key details about China passport processing, fees, and where to submit your application.
Run through every item before printing and submitting. Each point is a potential rejection reason.
These are the most frequent reasons for passport photo rejection. Avoid them to ensure first-time acceptance.
China uses 33×48mm — a format used by few other countries. Using a common 35×45mm or 2×2" photo is a frequent mistake that causes rejection.
China requires both ears to be clearly visible. Long hair that covers the ears must be pulled back for the photo.
China's automated facial recognition systems check for natural skin tones. Photos with heavy beauty filters, skin whitening effects, or unnatural color processing are flagged and rejected.
All glasses are prohibited. This includes tinted contact lenses that change eye color — the eyes must appear their natural color.
In China, passports are typically issued through your hukou (household registration) district's PSB office. Submitting to a PSB in a different city may require additional documentation.
A 7-business-day standard processing time means planning ahead is essential. Urgent (3-day) processing costs more. Self-service passport renewal kiosks are available in some cities.
Applying for multiple passports or visas? See how China's photo requirements compare to other popular destinations.
| Country | Photo Size | Background | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | 35×45mm | Light plain background | 1 photo required |
| India | 51×51mm (2×2") | White background | 4 photos required |
| United States | 2×2" (51×51mm) | White/off-white background | 2 photos required |
| Schengen/EU | 35×45mm | Light plain background | 2 photos required |
Requirements updated June 2026. Always verify with the official issuing authority before submitting your application.
Our network of professional photographers can take your passport photo in person with guaranteed compliance for China applications.