Compare · 
UK · 
China
UK vs China visa photo: 35 × 45 mm vs 33 × 48 mm
UK: 35 × 45 mm. China: 33 × 48 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. UK 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: UK expects 600 × 750 px, China expects 420 × 560 px.
In short
UK 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.
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 | UK | China |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size≠ differs | 35 × 45 mm | 33 × 48 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600 × 750 px | 420 × 560 px |
| File size limit | ≤ 6 MB | 40–120 KB |
| Head height≠ differs | 64–76% (29–34 mm) | 58–69% (28–33 mm) |
| Background | Plain neutral background in a light grey or cream shade with clear contrast against the face. | Plain white background. |
| Glasses | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinted lenses or strong reflections. | Ordinary prescription glasses are allowed: untinted lenses, a thin frame that does not cover the eyes, no reflections; sunglasses are prohibited. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible. |
| Head covering | Religious or medical reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | 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 (Home Office), GOV.UK | Chinese Visa Application Service Center / Consular Department of MFA China |
| Last verified | 1 Oct 2026 | 17 May 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for UK and China?
No — the print sizes differ. UK 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: UK expects 600 × 750 px, China expects 420 × 560 px.
Which photo is larger — UK or China?
China uses the larger photo: 33 × 48 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for UK.
What background colour do UK and China require?
UK requires: Plain light. China requires: Plain white. A plain white background satisfies both.