China requires passport photos measuring 33×48 millimeters — not the standard 35×45mm used by most countries. This 2mm width difference catches many applicants who assume universal sizing. Your photo will be rejected if you submit the standard international format.
This is one of the most commonly missed details in Chinese passport applications.
Exact Chinese Passport Photo Dimensions (33×48mm)
| Measurement Unit | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Millimeters | 33mm | 48mm |
| Inches | 1.30" | 1.89" |
| Pixels (300 DPI) | 390px | 567px |
| The key difference is the width: 33mm instead of 35mm. The height is slightly larger than standard (48mm vs. 45mm), but the narrow width is the critical distinction. A standard 35×45mm photo will be 2mm too wide — enough for automated document scanners to reject it. |
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Why Does China Use 33×48mm Instead of 35×45mm?
China's National Immigration Administration (NIA) established this unique standard. The dimensions trace back to China's older identity document system, which predates ICAO standardization. When China modernized its passport system, it kept the existing 33×48mm size rather than switching to the international 35×45mm standard.
The result: standard international photos fail for Chinese passport applications. The 2mm width difference and 3mm height difference seem trivial, but automated document scanners are calibrated to exact specifications.
Chinese Passport Photo Head Height: The 60–80% Rule
Your head — measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the skull — must occupy 60-80% of the photo's 48mm vertical space.
In concrete terms:
- Minimum (60%): 29mm from chin to crown
- Maximum (80%): 38mm from chin to crown
- Target (70%): approximately 34mm — the safest position
- Eye line: Approximately 56% from the bottom of the image
This range matches the ICAO standard despite China's non-standard photo dimensions. The absolute head measurements are slightly larger than on a standard 35×45mm photo because the 48mm frame is 3mm taller.
Glasses and Appearance Rules for Chinese Passport Photos
- Glasses: Not permitted. Remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses.
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed. No smiling.
- Background: White, evenly lit with no shadows behind the head.
- Hair: Must not cover the face or forehead. Both ears should be visible.
- Head coverings: Only for religious or ethnic reasons. The full face from forehead to chin must remain visible.
Chinese Passport Photo Size vs Other Countries
| Country | Size | Head height | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|
| China | 33×48mm | 60–80% | Rectangle |
| Japan | 35×45mm | 71–80% | Rectangle |
| South Korea | 35×45mm | 60–80% | Rectangle |
| United Kingdom | 35×45mm | 64–76% | Rectangle |
| United States | 51×51mm | 50–69% | Square |
| India | 35×35mm | 60–80% | Square |
China's 33×48mm is unique — no other country uses this exact size. Japan and South Korea use 35×45mm (2mm wider, 3mm shorter). The US uses a 51×51mm square. None of these are interchangeable with China's format.
Where to Get a 33×48mm Passport Photo in China
Public Security Bureau (PSB) offices. The Exit-Entry Administration offices in major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen) have on-site photo services that produce the correct 33×48mm format. This is the most reliable option — the staff verify compliance before printing.
Photo studios (照相馆). Professional studios throughout Chinese cities know the local standard. Ask for "护照照片" (passport photo). Prices typically range from ¥20-50. Studios near PSB offices handle passport photos daily.
Photo booths. Automated machines in metro stations, government buildings, and shopping centres in China produce the correct 33×48mm format. Cost is typically ¥15-30.
Outside China: This is where most problems occur. Specify "Chinese passport photo, 33×48mm" explicitly — do not say "Asian passport size" (Japan, South Korea, and most Asian countries use 35×45mm). Provide the exact pixel dimensions (390×567) and DPI (300) if the studio doesn't have the format pre-configured.
Studios in cities with large Chinese communities — Flushing (New York), Richmond (Vancouver), Hurstville (Sydney), Chinatown (London) — are often familiar with the 33×48mm format. Elsewhere, expect to educate the studio on the specific dimensions. Bring a printout of the exact specifications to avoid miscommunication.
DIY at home: If photographing yourself, stand against a white wall in good natural light. Use a tripod or prop your phone at eye level about 1.5 metres away. Crop to 390×567 pixels in a photo editor — do not use a preset template for "passport photo" as these default to 35×45mm.
Digital Submission Requirements for Chinese Passport Photos
The National Immigration Administration accepts digital photo uploads for online passport applications:
- JPEG format, 390×567 pixels minimum at 300 DPI
- White background, no shadows
- The automated system checks dimensions, aspect ratio, and face detection before accepting
- If rejected, verify your photo with a compliance checker before re-uploading
For in-person applications at the PSB, bring printed copies on glossy or matte photo paper. Prints must be exactly 33×48mm — verify with a ruler before leaving the studio. Most PSB offices require two identical prints.
Chinese Baby and Children's Passport Photo Size Rules
Children's Chinese passport photos follow the same 33×48mm size and 60-80% head height requirements.
Infants (under 1 year): Lay the baby on a white sheet and photograph from directly above. Both eyes should be open. The 33mm width makes centering particularly important — even small shifts are more noticeable on this narrow frame.
Children (1-5 years): Same rules as adults — neutral expression, eyes open, face centered. Getting a toddler to sit still is the real challenge. PSB photo services handle children's photos regularly and have techniques for managing restless children.
All children under 18: Chinese children's passports have shorter validity periods (5 years vs 10 for adults). This means more frequent renewals and more frequent photos. Keep a compliant digital copy of your child's most recent photo.
Chinese Passport vs Chinese Visa Photo Size Differences
If you need a Chinese visa (as a foreign national), the photo requirements may differ from Chinese passport photos. Some consulates accept 33×48mm, others accept 35×45mm. Always confirm with the specific consulate handling your visa application. The safest approach: prepare a 33×48mm photo and a 35×45mm photo so you have both sizes ready.
Common Chinese Passport Photo Sizing Mistakes
Using a standard 35×45mm photo. The most common error for Chinese passport applications filed outside China. The photo is 2mm too wide — enough for automated rejection.
Assuming "Asian passport size" means 33×48mm. It doesn't. Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, and most of Southeast Asia use 35×45mm. China's format is unique to China.
Wrong aspect ratio from phone cameras. China's 33:48 ratio (approximately 11:16) is different from 4:3, 16:9, and even 7:9. Set custom dimensions in your photo editor.
Using a US 51×51mm photo. The US square format is completely different in size and shape. Dual citizens need separate photos.
Face too small from selfie distance. Arm's-length selfies produce a face at roughly 40-50% of the frame — below the 60% minimum. Position the camera about 1.5 metres away.
Verifying Your Chinese Passport Photo Size Before Submission
Use our passport photo checker to validate your photo against China's exact 33×48mm requirement. The dimensions are the single most common rejection reason for Chinese passport applications filed outside China.
For complete China passport details, see our China requirements guide.
