China Visa Photo (2×2 inch / 51×51 mm) Requirements and Size Guide
Everything you need to know about the 2×2 inch China visa photo format, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and when to use this alternative format instead of the standard 33×48mm.
China Visa Photo Specifications (2×2 inch Format)
Requirement
Specification
Country
China (中国)
Document Type
Visa (2×2 inch format)
Photo Size
2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
Resolution (DPI)
600
Pixel Size (at 600 DPI)
1200 × 1200 pixels
Head Size
70–80% of the photo (chin to top of head)
Background Color
White
Color
Color only (black and white not accepted)
Quantity Required
2 identical photographs
Recency
Taken within the last 6 months
Important: The 2×2 inch (51×51mm) format is an alternative accepted by some Chinese embassies and consulates, particularly those in the United States. The standard format for China visa photos is 33×48mm. Always check with your local Chinese embassy or consulate to confirm which format they accept before submitting your application.
Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI-powered tool will automatically crop to the correct 2×2 inch (51×51mm) size, remove and replace the background with white, adjust the head size, and ensure your photo meets all requirements.
Detailed China Visa Photo Requirements (2×2 inch Format)
The 2×2 inch (51×51mm) format is the same size used for US passport and visa photos. Some Chinese embassies and consulates, particularly those in the United States and other countries that commonly use the 2×2 inch standard, may accept this format as an alternative to the standard 33×48mm Chinese format. Always confirm with your specific embassy before submitting.
Photo Basics
Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
No filters or editing — do not digitally alter your appearance
Must reflect your current appearance
You must submit 2 identical photographs with your application
At 600 DPI, the digital version should be 1200 × 1200 pixels
When to Use 2×2 inch vs 33×48mm
33×48mm — The standard format specified by Chinese immigration authorities. This is the most widely accepted format for China visa applications worldwide.
2×2 inch (51×51mm) — Accepted by some Chinese embassies and consulates, particularly in the United States and other countries where the 2×2 inch format is the local standard.
Always check with your specific embassy or consulate to confirm which format they require.
Pose and Expression
Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
Maintain a neutral facial expression — mouth closed, no smiling
Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and ear to ear
Background
Use a plain white background
No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
No shadows on your face or behind your head
Sufficient contrast between your face and the background
Glasses
Glasses are NOT allowed in Chinese visa photos. You must remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, before taking the photo.
Head Coverings and Hats
No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn for religious purposes
If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be visible from chin to forehead
No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices
Clothing
Wear normal everyday clothing that contrasts with the background
Do not wear uniforms
Avoid wearing white or very light-colored tops that may blend with the white background
Children and Baby Photos
The child must be the only person in the photo — no parent's hands or arms visible
The child's eyes must be open and visible
No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible in the photo
A plain white sheet may be used as a background for babies
The photo must show the child's full face from chin to top of head
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant China visa photo at home using your smartphone.
1
Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera
Any modern smartphone camera is more than capable of taking a visa-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.
2
Find Good Lighting
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows.
Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with the required white color.
3
Dress Appropriately
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes.
4
Pose Correctly
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.
5
Maintain a Neutral Expression
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.
Good and Bad Examples of China Visa Photos
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable visa photos
When should I use 2×2 inch instead of 33×48mm for China visa?
Some Chinese embassies in the US and other countries accept the 2×2 inch format. The 33×48mm is the standard format specified by Chinese immigration. Check with your local embassy to confirm which format they accept.
What size is a 2×2 inch China visa photo in millimeters?
A 2×2 inch photo is 51×51mm (square). At 600 DPI, the digital version should be 1200×1200 pixels. Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photo.
Can I wear glasses in my China visa photo?
No. Glasses are strictly not permitted in Chinese visa photos. You must remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses.
What background color is required?
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.
Can I take my China visa photo with my phone?
Yes! Simply upload your photo to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all requirements.
How many photos do I need for a China visa application?
Typically 2 identical photographs are required for a China visa application. Check with the specific embassy or consulate for their exact requirements.
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
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.
How recent must my China visa photo be?
Your visa photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. It should reflect your current appearance.
