What size is a Chinese visa photo?
33 mm wide by 48 mm high, with the head 15–22 mm wide and 28–33 mm from chin to top of head.
Chinese visa photo guide
Chinese Visa Photo Online
Chinese visa photos are 33x48 mm with a white or off-white background, taken within the last six months. The online application (COVA) takes a JPEG between 354x472 and 420x560 pixels and 40–120 KB.
- Printed: 33 mm wide × 48 mm high
- Head 15–22 mm wide, 28–33 mm chin to top
- Digital: 354×472 to 420×560 px JPEG, 40–120 KB
- White or off-white background
- Taken within the last 6 months
Printed vs COVA upload
The China Online Visa Application asks you to upload a digital photo, and the visa center checks it again when you submit your documents. Keep printed copies in case the center asks for one.
The photo format is unusual — narrower and taller than most passport photos — so do not reuse a 2x2 U.S. passport photo.
Photo checklist
Chinese visa centers look closely at head size and margins.
- Leave 3–5 mm of space above the head
- Show the full face and both ears where possible
- No glasses glare, hats, or jewelry covering the face
- Upload a JPEG within the pixel and file-size range
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the digital requirements for the China online visa application?
A JPEG between 354×472 and 420×560 pixels and between 40 KB and 120 KB.
Can I use a U.S. passport photo for a Chinese visa?
No. Chinese visas use 33x48 mm, which is a different shape from the 2x2-inch U.S. format.