What is the exact size of a Chinese passport photo?

Chinese passport photos must be 33mm wide × 48mm tall. This is different from most other countries. The head height should be 28-33mm, and head width should be 21-24mm. For digital submissions, photos should be 390 × 567 pixels.

What background is required for Chinese passport photo?

Chinese passport photos require a pure white background. The background must be uniform, without any patterns, textures, shadows, or gradients. Off-white or cream colors are not accepted.

Can I wear glasses in Chinese passport photo?

No, glasses are not allowed in Chinese passport photos. This includes prescription glasses, sunglasses, and any tinted lenses. Your eyes must be clearly visible without any obstruction or reflection.

How recent should my Chinese passport photo be?

Chinese passport photos must be taken within the last 6 months. The photo should accurately represent your current appearance. If your appearance has changed significantly, you need a new photo.

🇨🇳 PRC Compliant

Chinese Passport Photo Requirements

中国护照照片 / 護照相片

Create passport photos meeting People's Republic of China (PRC) requirements. Unique size: 33×48mm with strict head proportion guidelines.

Create Passport Photo →

👤

33 × 48 mm

PRC Standard

Official Photo Specifications

Size Requirements

Photo Size	33 × 48 mm
In Inches	1.30 × 1.89 inches
Digital (minimum)	390 × 567 px
Head Height	28-33 mm
Head Width	21-24 mm

Photo Standards

✓ Pure white background only
✓ Recent photo (within 6 months)
✓ Neutral expression, mouth closed
✓ Face centered, looking at camera
✓ Both ears visible
✗ No glasses (strict rule)
✗ No head covering (except religious)

Head Proportion Requirements

📏

Head Height

28-33mm

From chin to top of head

↔️

Head Width

21-24mm

Ear to ear distance

⬆️

Top Margin

3-5mm

Space above head

Chinese Passport Types

🔴

Ordinary Passport

普通护照 - For regular citizens traveling abroad.

• Tourism and business travel
• Valid for 10 years (adults)
• Valid for 5 years (minors)

🟢

Official Passport

公务护照 - For government officials on official duty.

• Government employees
• State-owned enterprise staff
• Official travel only

🔵

Diplomatic Passport

外交护照 - For diplomats and high officials.

• Diplomatic personnel
• High-ranking officials
• Special privileges

Where to Apply

Inside China

Apply at local Exit-Entry Administration (出入境管理局):

1 Book appointment online
2 Bring Hukou (户口本) and ID card
3 Photos taken on-site or bring your own
4 Pay fee (¥120 for ordinary passport)
5 Collect in 7-15 working days

Outside China

Apply at Chinese Embassy or Consulate:

1 Book appointment on embassy website
2 Complete online application form
3 Bring 2 photos (33×48mm)
4 Pay fee (varies by country)
5 Collect or mail delivery

Common Photo Mistakes

🕶️

Wearing Glasses

Strictly not allowed

📏

Wrong Size

Must be 33×48mm exactly

👂

Ears Hidden

Both ears must be visible

🎨

Wrong Background

Must be pure white

Frequently Asked Questions

How many photos do I need for Chinese passport? ▼

Inside China: Photos are usually taken at the office, but you can bring your own.

Outside China (Embassy): 2 identical photos (33×48mm) are required. Always bring 3-4 copies as backup.

Can I take my own passport photo? ▼

Yes! Use VisaPicPro to create compliant 33×48mm photos at home:

AI auto-adjusts to exact Chinese specifications
Ensures correct head proportions (28-33mm height)
Creates pure white background
Print at home or any photo shop

Why is Chinese passport photo size different? ▼

China uses 33×48mm instead of the international 35×45mm standard for historical reasons. This size was established before ICAO standardization and has been maintained for consistency in domestic systems. Do not use standard international-sized photos for Chinese documents.

How much does a Chinese passport cost? ▼

Inside China:

Ordinary passport: ¥120 (~$17 USD)
Express service: Additional ¥60

Outside China (Embassy):

USA: $35 + $25 service fee
UK: £25 + £20 service fee
Fees vary by country