Ensure China Document Photo Compliance - Photo Requirements Made Easy

Chinese online visa and passport application photo requirements

There are additional requirements for online photo submissions. Note that your photo must still adhere to all the physical specifications mentioned above or prior.

Here are the additional photo requirements if you’re applying for your Chinese passport or visa online.

• Your digital photo should be between 354 pixels (width) x 472 pixels (height) and 420 pixels × 560 pixels.
• The resolution should be approximately 600 dpi.
• File size must be between 40 KB and 120 KB.

China photo documents for children (visa and passport)

Children’s passports and visa photos follow similar rules as adults but with slight leniency. Specifically, there are some allowances for infants and young children.

Here are all the extra bits you need to know.

• The child must be the only subject in the photo, without any toys or accessories.
• The child’s head may occupy a smaller portion of the photo than an adult’s. However, all key features should remain clear and visible.
• When photographing infants, use a plain white or light blue sheet to cover car seats or the floor, providing a suitable and consistent background.
• Strive to capture the child’s photo with their eyes fully open. While some leniency exists for very young children and infants concerning facial expression, eyes should not be closed.

More important tips

• The background must be uniform to create a clear contrast with the subject (you or the person being photographed).
• Your head should be centered and directly facing the camera; side profiles are not accepted.
• Ensure even distribution across the face without shadows or glare.

Chinese online visa overview

A Chinese online visa is a convenient way for eligible foreign nationals to obtain entry permits for tourism, business, transit, or other purposes—without the need for a physical application at a consulate or embassy.

This online service is a streamlined approach that allows you to complete your application and submit necessary documents digitally. It facilitates a quicker processing time and reduces the logistical challenges of acquiring a Chinese visa.

Eligibility requirements for Chinese online visa

To apply for a Chinese visa online, you generally must provide proof of your legal residence status in your country (such as a green card or visa if applying from the U.S.), along with standard identification documents like a passport.

The specific requirements can vary slightly depending on the type of visa application and your nationality​.

Types of Chinese visas available

China offers several types of visas for different purposes, including the following.

• Tourist Visa (L Visa) for those visiting for sightseeing or to visit family.
• Business Visa (M Visa) for business-related activities.
• Work Visa (Z Visa) for employment.
• Student Visa (X Visa) for educational purposes.
• Transit Visa (G Visa) for passing through China.
• Journalist Visa (J1 & J2 Visa) for media personnel​.

These visas cater to different needs, whether you’re planning a short visit, a business trip, or a longer stay for work or study.

Chinese visa or passport application process

Generally, you can process your application at the airport (visa only), China Visa Service Center (CVSC), or embassy. Using the China Online Visa Application (COVA) service, you can also apply for visas online.

As for submitting your Chinese passport or visa photos, knowing what special considerations apply is essential.

Chinese online visa applications

The Chinese online visa application process involves several steps. You’ll need to use the China Online Visa Application (COVA) or the Appointment for Visa Application Submission (AVAS) system.

It’s important to note that while the application form can be filled out online, submitting documents and collecting the visa may require physical attendance at a visa office.

Here’s a consolidated view of the process.

• Online application form: You must complete the application form online via the COVA platform, providing personal information accurately and comprehensively.
• Document upload: You need to upload the necessary documents along with the application form. This typically includes a photocopy of your passport, a recent photograph (two identical and unaltered copies), and potentially other documents, depending on the visa type.
• Submission and appointment booking: After filling out the form online, you may need to print it and book an appointment through the AVAS or COVA system. Then, submit your application at the designated Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) or directly at a Chinese embassy or consulate, depending on your location.
• Visit the visa office: On the day of your appointment, bring the printed application form, the confirmation page, and all required documents to the visa office. Ensure you arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled time.
• Visa fee and collection: Pay the visa application fee at the visa office. Once your application is processed and, if granted, you will either pick up your visa in person or have it sent to you. This will depend on the service options available at the location where you applied.

For more specific information, you should consult official Chinese visa application websites—COVA or CVASC.

Chinese offline visa applications

Applying for a Chinese visa offline involves a few structured steps. Here’s the general overview.

• Determine the type of visa: What is the specific type of visa you need based on the purpose of your visit (tourist, business, student, etc.)?
• Gather required documents: Collect all necessary documents, which typically include your passport, completed application form, passport-sized photo, and other relevant documents such as invitation letters or financial proof, depending on the visa type.
• Complete the application form: Obtain the latest version of the visa application form from the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate or download it from their official website. Fill out the form carefully and ensure all information is accurate.
• Submit the application: Bring your completed application form along with all the required documents to the nearest Chinese embassy, consulate, or designated CVASC. This includes two identical and unaltered photos that meet Chinese visa photo requirements, which you can get done with passportphotos.com. In some regions, appointments may be required before submission.
• Pay the visa fee: The fee depends on the type of visa and your nationality. Payment is usually required at the time of application submission. Check with the specific embassy or visa center, as fees can vary.
• Attend an interview (if required): Some visa categories may require a personal interview at the embassy or consulate. After submitting your application, you’ll be notified if an interview is necessary.
• Collect Your Visa: Once your visa is processed, you will either receive it by mail or you may need to pick it up in person. Processing times can vary significantly depending on the visa type and the specific embassy or consulate.

For those applying from countries with Chinese Visa Application Service Centers, the process might slightly differ as these centers streamline procedures but may charge additional service fees.

Offline Chinese passport applications

The process for applying for a Chinese passport offline generally involves the following key steps.

• Gather required documents: You’ll need to collect all necessary documentation, such as proof of citizenship, identification, and recent passport-sized photos.
• Visit a Local embassy or Public Security Bureau (PSB): In China, passport applications are typically handled at local PSB offices. If you’re applying from outside China, you’ll visit the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate.
• Complete the application form: Obtain and fill out the passport application form. These are available at PSB offices or through the websites of Chinese embassies and consulates. You must also submit two identical and unaltered photos with your application that meet the requirements.
• Submit your application: Provide your completed application form along with all required documents at the PSB or consulate office. Some locations may require an appointment, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
• Pay the fee: There is a fee for processing the passport application, which varies depending on the type of passport and the urgency of your application.
• Wait for processing and collect your passport: After submitting your application, you will have to wait for it to be processed. Once ready, your new passport can either be collected in person or mailed to you.

Application procedures may vary slightly depending on your location and whether you are applying within China or from abroad. For the most accurate and detailed information, consult the specific Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for your jurisdiction or the local PSB office in China​.

Online Chinese passport applications

Here’s a step-by-step overview of the Chinese online passport application process.

• Access the application portal: Applicants need to access the Chinese Consular Affairs portal or the dedicated mobile app provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This platform is where all applications begin.
• Create an account and log in: First-time users will need to create an account. Return users can log in with their existing credentials.
• Fill out the application form: Complete the online application form by providing all required personal information, passport details, and any other necessary data. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
• Upload required documents: Digitally upload all required documents, including a recent passport photo that meets the specified criteria, proof of residency, and previous passport details, if applicable.
• Submit application and pay fees: After filling out the application form and uploading documents, review your application for accuracy, then submit it. The fee can usually be paid online via credit card, debit card, or other electronic payment methods.
• Application review and processing: Once submitted, the application will undergo a review process. Depending on your location and specific requirements, you might be required to participate in an additional verification step, such as biometric data submission.

Note that while the initial steps can be completed online, some aspects of the process, like biometric data collection, might still require a physical visit to a consulate, embassy, or authorized service center.

Your easy path to China photo document compliance

Adhering to the detailed passport and visa photo requirements above is essential for online and offline applications to avoid delays or rejections.

You could also opt for an online solution like ours, which guarantees your photos will meet every official specification. Just upload a photo using your smartphone or camera, and our service will automatically adjust, edit, and verify the image against all criteria.