China Visa Photo Requirements — 33×48mm for US Citizens Visiting China
Planning to visit China? Your visa application requires a 33×48mm photo plus a digital image upload — a format not available at any standard US photo lab. We provide both, with same-day pickup or instant digital delivery.
China is one of the most popular destinations for US travelers — but getting the visa photo right is a common sticking point. The 33×48mm format is not produced by any standard US photo lab, and the strict expression requirements differ significantly from US passport photo standards.
China Visa Photo Specifications
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Printed size | 33×48mm |
| Head height | 28–33mm from chin to crown |
| Head width | 21–24mm ear to ear |
| Background | White or off-white — uniform, no shadows |
| Expression | Neutral — no smiling, no teeth visible |
| Eyes | Wide open, clearly visible; both ears visible |
| Head covering | Not permitted |
| View | Full front view, all facial features clearly visible, head centered |
| Color | RGB 24-bit true color — no black and white |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Quality | Sharp, no damage, creases, stains, or shadows |
Digital Image Requirements (Online Upload)
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| File format | JPEG |
| File size | 40 KB – 120 KB |
| Color | RGB 24-bit true color |
| Background | White or off-white |
| Quality | High resolution; no damage, stains, or shadows |
China Visa Application — Key Requirements
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 more months with at least one blank visa page. Include a photocopy of the photo/information page.
- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed form of the People’s Republic of China. Supplementary forms required for Z (work) or X (study) visas.
- Printed photo: One 33×48mm color photo affixed to the application form. No head covering.
- Digital upload: A JPEG digital image (40–120 KB) is now required for most visa categories.
How to Order — 3 Simple Steps
Take a photo at home
Plain white background, natural light, camera at eye level. Neutral expression — no smiling. Both ears visible.
Upload your photo
Upload here for free pre-approval before payment. Mention if you need both printed and digital.
Receive printed + digital
Same-day pickup at Walgreens, CVS, or Walmart for printed photos, plus JPEG digital file by email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Also see: China Passport Photo Requirements →
