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China vs South Korea visa photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of visa photo requirements for China and South Korea, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
China requires 33 × 48 mm while South Korea requires 35 × 45 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will be rejected by the other.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. China requires 33 × 48 mm, while South Korea requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
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 | South Korea |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 33 × 48 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 420×560 px | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| File size limit | 40–120 KB | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| Head height | 58–69% (28–33 mm) | 56–78% (25–35 mm) |
| Background | Plain white background. | Strictly white background. |
| Glasses | Glasses prohibited, except for rare documented medical exceptions. | 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 | Not specified by the issuing authority | 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, Republic of Korea |
| Verification | Official — general | Official — exact |
| Last verified | 2026-05-17 | 2026-05-17 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for China and South Korea?
No — the print sizes differ. China requires 33 × 48 mm, while South Korea 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 South Korea?
China uses the larger photo: 33 × 48 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for South Korea.
What background colour do China and South Korea require?
China requires: Plain white. South Korea requires: White.