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United Kingdom vs China visa photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of visa photo requirements for United Kingdom and China, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 mm while China requires 33 × 48 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. United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 mm, while China requires 33 × 48 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document. The digital uploads also differ: United Kingdom expects 600×750 px, China expects 420×560 px.
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 | United Kingdom | China |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm | 33 × 48 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600×750 px | 420×560 px |
| File size limit | Not specified by the issuing authority | 40–120 KB |
| Head height | 64–76% (29–34 mm) | 58–69% (28–33 mm) |
| Background | Plain neutral background with clear contrast to the face. | Plain white background. |
| Glasses | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinted lenses or strong reflections. | Glasses prohibited, except for rare documented medical exceptions. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible. |
| Head covering | Not specified by the issuing authority | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Face strictly straight; entire head visible; no other people or objects in the frame. | Full face, looking directly into the camera, head and shoulders fully visible. |
| Lighting / shadows | Photo must be clear, well-lit, and without digital alterations. | Shadows, overexposure, and reflections not permitted. |
| Authority | UK Visas and Immigration | Chinese Visa Application Service Center / Consular Department of MFA China |
| Verification | Official — general | Official — general |
| Last verified | 2026-05-17 | 2026-05-17 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for United Kingdom and China?
No — the print sizes differ. United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 mm, while China requires 33 × 48 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document. The digital uploads also differ: United Kingdom expects 600×750 px, China expects 420×560 px.
Which photo is larger — United Kingdom or China?
China uses the larger photo: 33 × 48 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for United Kingdom.
What background colour do United Kingdom and China require?
United Kingdom requires: Plain neutral. China requires: Plain white.