Everything you need to know about China passport photo requirements (中国护照照片), including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | China (中国) |
| Document Type | Passport |
| Photo Size | 33 × 48 mm |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Pixel Size (at 600 DPI) | 354 × 472 pixels |
| Head Width | 15–22 mm |
| Head Height | 28–33 mm (chin to crown) |
| Top Margin | 3–5 mm from top of head to photo edge |
| Bottom Margin | Minimum 7 mm from chin to bottom edge |
| Background Color | White |
| Color | Color only (black and white not accepted) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Digital File Size | 30–80 KB JPEG |
Chinese passport photos follow the standards set by the 出入境证件相片照相指引 (Entry-Exit Document Photo Guidelines) issued by the National Immigration Administration of China. The photo must precisely meet these specifications to be accepted for a Chinese passport application.
Glasses are NOT allowed in Chinese passport photos. You must remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, before taking the photo.
In China, passport photos are typically taken on-site at the Entry-Exit Administration office (出入境管理处). However, it is still useful to know the exact requirements for digital photo submission, especially if you are applying from overseas at a Chinese embassy or consulate.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant China passport photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera is more than capable of taking a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows.

Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes.

Stand about 1.5 meters in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted.

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. Do not smile — a straight, serious expression is required.

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos
A China passport photo must be 33×48mm. The digital version at 600 DPI should be 354×472 pixels. The head height should be 28–33mm from chin to crown, and head width should be 15–22mm.
No. Glasses are strictly not permitted in Chinese passport photos. You must remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses.
The background must be plain white. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a white wall, our tool will automatically replace your background with white.
Yes! Simply upload your photo to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all official China passport photo requirements.
The digital file must be a JPEG between 30–80 KB. The pixel dimensions should be 354×472 pixels at 600 DPI resolution.
No, hats and head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious reasons. Even then, your full face must be visible from chin to forehead.
Your passport photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. It should reflect your current appearance.
In China, passport photos are often taken on-site at the Entry-Exit Administration office. However, you can also bring your own compliant photo or submit a digital version. Knowing the requirements helps ensure your photo is accepted.