Planning your Great Wall crawl, dim sum dive, or high-speed train dash across Beijing and Shanghai? Exciting stuff. But first things first, you’ll need a Chinese visa.
And at the heart of that application?
A photo.
Not just any photo, but one that meets China visa photo requirements.
If you’re an Indian passport holder applying for a China visa, don’t underestimate this part. One wrong shadow, wrong size, or even an overly cheerful smile, and your application can be delayed or, worse, rejected.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about China visa photo requirements, so you get it right the first time.
Why China Cares So Much About Your Visa Photo
Your visa photo isn’t just for ID purposes. It’s used for facial recognition, official records, and compliance with strict immigration protocols.
The Chinese embassy and consulates are particular. They expect high-quality, regulation-compliant photos, and they won’t hesitate to reject your entire application if that little image doesn’t tick every box.
China Visa Photo Requirements for Indians: At a Glance
Here’s a quick summary before we dive deep:
Size: 33mm wide × 48mm tall
Color: Must be in color, no black-and-white
Background: Pure white, no shadows or texture
Face: Centered, full face, neutral expression
Glasses: Not allowed
Headgear: Not allowed (unless for religious reasons)
Quality: High resolution, no blur, no creases
Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
Quantity: One photo per application
Now, let’s break that down section by section.
Exact Size: 33mm x 48mm
Unlike many countries that accept the classic 2×2 inch format, China wants 33mm (width) by 48mm (height).
This is a very specific size and not the same as standard Indian passport photos, which are often 35mm x 45mm.
- The head height (from chin to crown) should be between 28 mm –33mm.
- The distance from the top of the head to the top edge of the photo must be between 3mm–5mm.
Translation: don’t crop it yourself. Go to a studio and mention it’s for a Chinese visa.
Head Position and Expression
You must face directly forward, with your eyes open and mouth closed.
No tilting your head or raising eyebrows.
The expression must be neutral — smiling is not allowed.
Background Requirements
The background must be plain white.
No patterns, gradients, textures, or shadows.
Even lighting is necessary—no hotspots on your forehead, cheeks, or background.
Avoid wearing white or light-colored clothes that blend into the background. A dark solid color shirt (no prints) is usually a safe bet.
Glasses and Headwear Rules
Glasses: Not allowed. Even clear prescription glasses are not permitted for Chinese visa photos. No exceptions.
Headgear:
- Not allowed, unless it’s for religious reasons
- If worn for religious purposes, it must not obscure any facial features.
- Ears, forehead, cheeks, and chin must all be visible
Lighting and Quality
The photo must be:
- Sharp and high-resolution
- Free from red-eye, glare, or shadows
- Not pixelated, distorted, or overexposed
Make sure the light is evenly distributed across your face and the background. Uneven lighting can get your application rejected.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not smile or show teeth.
Do not wear glasses or hats.
Do not submit a selfie or a cropped image.
Do not wear uniforms or camouflage
Do not use a low-quality printout or home printer.
Do not submit a photo older than 6 months.
Stay professional, clean, and compliant. The less personality in the photo, the better your chances.
Printed or Digital? What’s Required?
You’ll typically need to submit one printed photo affixed to your visa application form.
Some Chinese consulates or agencies may also require digital versions, especially if you’re applying through an online appointment or visa center.
Digital Image Requirements:
- Format: JPEG
- Size: Typically under 200 KB
- Background and face requirements: same as printed version
Make sure your photo studio gives you both printed and digital copies—just in case.
Visa Photo Rules for Children
Traveling with kids? China doesn’t go easy on photo rules just because your subject is adorable.
- The child must face the camera directly.
- Eyes must be open (for infants, it’s preferred, not mandatory)
- No toys, pacifiers, or other objects in the frame
- No hands (yours or theirs) should be visible.
- Use a white sheet as a backdrop for babies.
It’s best to take them to a professional photo studio familiar with child visa photos.
The China Visa Photo Checklist for Indians
Use this checklist before submitting:
Size: 33mm x 48mm
Face Position: Centered, full-face, forward
Expression: Neutral, no smile
Background: White, plain, no shadows
Glasses: Not allowed
Headwear: Religious only
Resolution: High, no blur or grain
Recency: Within 6 months
Quantity: 1 (check your visa type to confirm)
Where to Get the Photo Taken?
Avoid DIY booths or taking it home. Visit a professional photo studio in your city and clearly say:
“A visa photo for China – 33x48mm with white background.”
Most professionals will know what to do, but always confirm the dimensions before you leave.
Why This Matters
Getting your photo wrong can lead to application rejection, delays in processing, or even rescheduling your travel. A correct photo the first time saves time, money, and unnecessary stress.
OneVasco Makes It Simple
Obtaining a visa for China as an Indian tourist includes dealing with documentation, photo criteria, and tight regulations, but it doesn’t have to be a hassle.
With the help of services like OneVasco, you can glide through the process successfully, while concentrating on the exciting part: visualizing streets adorned in lanterns, spicy hotpots, and giant panda sightings.