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China vs Japan visa photo: 33 × 48 mm vs 35 × 45 mm
China: 33 × 48 mm. Japan: 35 × 45 mm. Head height, background, glasses and file rules for the visa photo, side by side from each issuing authority.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. China requires 33 × 48 mm, while Japan requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
In short
China requires 33 × 48 mm while Japan requires 35 × 45 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will be rejected by the other.
Specification table
Every value in this table is taken from the official publications of the two issuing authorities. Open either country page for the full rule set, the printable layout and the source links.
| Attribute | China | Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size≠ differs | 33 × 48 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 420 × 560 px | The authority does not publish this detail |
| File size limit | 40–120 KB | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Head height≠ differs | 58–69% (28–33 mm) | 71–80% (32–36 mm) |
| Background | Plain white background. | White or light uniform background. |
| Glasses | Ordinary prescription glasses are allowed: untinted lenses, a thin frame that does not cover the eyes, no reflections; sunglasses are prohibited. | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinted lenses or strong reflections. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Full face, looking directly into the camera, head and shoulders fully visible. | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. |
| Lighting / shadows | Shadows, overexposure, and reflections not permitted. | Shadows on the face and background not permitted. |
| Attire | The authority does not publish this detail | Clothing must not blend into the background; face and shoulder line must be clearly defined. |
| Authority | Chinese Visa Application Service Center / Consular Department of MFA China | Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan |
| Last verified | 17 May 2026 | 1 Oct 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for China and Japan?
No — the print sizes differ. China requires 33 × 48 mm, while Japan requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Which photo is larger — China or Japan?
China uses the larger photo: 33 × 48 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for Japan.
What background colour do China and Japan require?
China requires: Plain white. Japan requires: White or light. A plain white background satisfies both.