What is the size of Chinese ID card photo?

Chinese ID card (身份证) photos must be 26mm wide × 32mm tall. This is smaller than passport photos. Digital photos should be 358 × 441 pixels with resolution of 350 DPI.

What background is required for Chinese ID card photo?

Chinese ID card photos require a pure white background. The background must be uniform without any patterns, shadows, or textures.

Can I wear glasses in Chinese ID card photo?

No, glasses are not allowed in Chinese ID card photos. All eyewear must be removed, including prescription glasses and contact lenses that change eye color.

Where can I take Chinese ID card photo?

You can take photos at: 1) Public Security Bureau (派出所) during application, 2) Designated photo studios with proper equipment, 3) At home using VisaPicPro and print at any photo shop.

🪪 MPS Compliant

Chinese ID Card Photo Requirements

身份证照片 / 居民身份證相片

Create photos for Chinese Resident Identity Card (居民身份证). Required for all Chinese citizens aged 16+. Size: 26×32mm.

Create ID Photo →

👤

26×32mm

身份证

What is (Shenfenzheng)?

The Resident Identity Card (居民身份证) is the primary identification document for Chinese citizens. It's required for:

• Domestic travel (train, flights)
• Banking and financial services
• SIM card registration
• Hotel check-in
• Government services
• Online verification (real-name registration)

ID Card Generations

📋

1st Generation

1984-2003 (phased out)

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2nd Generation

2004-present (current)

Photo Specifications

Size Requirements

Photo Size	26 × 32 mm
In Inches	1.02 × 1.26 inches
Digital Size	358 × 441 px
Resolution	350 DPI
File Size	9-20 KB

Photo Standards

✓ Pure white background
✓ Face takes 2/3 of photo height
✓ Neutral expression, mouth closed
✓ Both ears clearly visible
✓ Natural hair color
✗ No glasses (absolutely prohibited)
✗ No makeup that changes appearance

ID Card Validity by Age

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Under 16

5 years

Valid for 5 years

Optional, with guardian consent

👨

Age 16-25

10 years

Valid for 10 years

Mandatory for all citizens

👴

Age 26-45

20 years

Valid for 20 years

46+ gets permanent validity

How to Apply

At Police Station ()

1 Visit local 派出所 with Hukou (户口本)
2 Fill application form
3 Photo taken on-site (or bring qualified photo)
4 Fingerprint collection
5 Pay fee (¥20 for new, ¥40 for replacement)
6 Collect card in 7-30 days

Online Appointment

Many cities now offer online appointment systems:

• Book via WeChat mini-program (微信小程序)
• Upload photo in advance
• Visit during appointment time
• Faster processing available

💡 In first-tier cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou), ID cards can be issued in as fast as 3-7 days.

Common Photo Mistakes

🕶️

Wearing Glasses

Absolutely not allowed

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Dyed Hair

Unnatural colors rejected

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Ears Hidden

Both ears must show

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Heavy Makeup

Natural appearance only

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my own ID card photo? ▼

Yes, but with strict requirements. Many people choose to take photos at the police station for convenience. If taking your own:

Must be taken at a registered photo studio
Photo must pass digital verification system
Use VisaPicPro to ensure correct size and proportions
Print on proper photo paper

What if I lost my ID card? ▼

If you lose your 身份证:

Report loss at local police station
Apply for replacement with Hukou
Fee: ¥40 for replacement
You can request a temporary ID (临时身份证) valid for 3 months

Can foreigners get Chinese ID card? ▼

No, the 身份证 (Resident Identity Card) is only for Chinese citizens. Foreigners residing in China receive:

Foreigner's Residence Card: For long-term residents
Permanent Resident Card (绿卡): For permanent residents

These require different photo specifications.

Why is ID card photo smaller than passport photo? ▼

Chinese ID card uses 26×32mm because:

The card itself is smaller than a passport page
Standard established before international harmonization
Optimized for domestic systems

Comparison:
• ID Card: 26×32mm
• Passport: 33×48mm
• International: 35×45mm