China Visa Photo Requirements
Two different formats depending on your situation. Foreigners applying for a Chinese visa need 33×48mm. Chinese citizens applying for a Schengen visa need 35×45mm ICAO. Free preview before you pay.
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China Visa Photo Requirements 2026
Requirements differ depending on whether you are applying for a Chinese visa or for a Schengen/EU visa as a Chinese citizen. Always verify with the relevant embassy before your appointment.
⚠️ Two different formats apply depending on your situation:
(1) Foreigners applying for a Chinese visa at a Chinese embassy or consulate typically need a 33×48mm photo — the same format as the Chinese passport.
(2) Chinese citizens applying for a Schengen or EU visa need a standard 35×45mm ICAO photo — the international standard used across Europe.
Always verify the exact format required with the relevant embassy or consulate before submitting your application.
For Chinese Visa Applications (Foreigners)
Size (for Chinese visa)
33×48mm (width × height)
Background
Plain white
Expression
Neutral, mouth closed
Glasses
Not permitted
Recency
Within 6 months
Authority
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (中华人民共和国外交部) / Chinese embassies
For Schengen/EU Visa Applications (Chinese Citizens)
Size (Schengen visa for Chinese citizens)
35×45mm ICAO standard
Background
Plain white
Head height
32–36mm (chin to crown)
Glasses
Not permitted
Recency
Within 6 months
Authority
EU/Schengen embassies — ICAO biometric standard
Note: ID Wizard is not affiliated with any government authority, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China or any embassy. Photo specifications may be updated and can vary by consulate location. Always verify current requirements directly with the relevant Chinese embassy or Schengen-area embassy before your appointment.
How to Create Your China Visa Photo
Upload your photo
Selfie or portrait. Good light, front-facing, plain background. No glasses.
AI formats it
Plain white background applied, correct crop size applied — 33×48mm for Chinese visa or 35×45mm ICAO for Schengen.
Download & use
High-resolution JPEG — for digital upload via COVA portal or printing before your embassy appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Foreigners applying for a Chinese visa (中国签证) at a Chinese embassy or consulate typically need a 33×48mm photo — width 33mm, height 48mm. This is the same format used for Chinese passports. Always verify the exact requirements with the specific Chinese embassy or consulate where you are applying, as requirements can vary slightly by country of application.
Create your China visa photo now
Free preview. No subscription. Both 33×48mm and 35×45mm ICAO formats available. Ready in under 2 minutes.
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