Hong Kong Visa and Passport Photo 2026: Non-Standard 40x50 mm Size and Digital Upload Requirements
In short. Applying for a Hong Kong visa or passport in 2026 requires a non-standard 40x50 mm photo on a white background (digital — from 1200x1600 pixels).
- Non-standard size: Hong Kong requires a 40x50 mm photo, not the usual 35x45 mm.
- Digital upload: The file must be in JPEG format, up to 5 MB in size, with a resolution of at least 1200x1600 pixels.
- Facial proportions: Head height from chin to crown must be 32–36 mm.
- Background and clothing: Pure white background only. It is recommended to avoid overly light or dark clothing.
Main points for 2026: The Hong Kong Immigration Department strictly requires non-standard 40x50 mm photos for visas and passports, which differ from the usual European 35x45 mm format. For online submission, the digital photo must meet clear technical parameters.
What has changed
Hong Kong applies its own biometric standards, which are mandatory for all types of visas (work, student, family) and passports. Using a standard Schengen area photo (35x45 mm) is one of the most common reasons for delays or rejections in document processing.
| Parameter | Hong Kong Requirements (2026) |
|---|---|
| Physical size | 40 mm (width) × 50 mm (height) |
| Head size | 32–36 mm (from chin to crown) |
| Background | Pure white (no shadows or patterns) |
| Digital size | Minimum 1200 × 1600 pixels |
| File format and size | JPEG, no more than 5 MB |
Who this affects
These requirements apply to citizens of Ukraine and other foreigners applying for long-term visas to Hong Kong (for example, for work, study, or family reunification). Please note: for tourist trips of up to 14 days, Ukrainian citizens do not need a visa to Hong Kong, but for any other purposes, obtaining a visa with the appropriate photo is mandatory.
What to do now
- Warn the photographer about the size: Be sure to specify that you need exactly a 40x50 mm photo, not the standard 35x45 mm. The head height must take up 32–36 mm.
- Get the correct digital file: For online upload, ask the photographer to provide a JPEG file with a resolution of at least 1200x1600 pixels and a size of up to 5 MB.
- Choose contrasting clothing: Since the background must be pure white, avoid white or overly light clothing so you do not blend into the background.
- Check facial expression and hairstyle: The face must be neutral, mouth closed. Hair must not cover the eyes or eyebrows.
Common mistakes
- Submitting a 35x45 mm photo: The most common mistake, which is guaranteed to result in the return of documents.
- Glare on glasses: Glasses are allowed, but the frames must not cover the eyes, and there must be no glare on the lenses. Tinted lenses are strictly prohibited.
- Incorrect lighting: The presence of shadows on the face or on the background behind you makes the photo unusable.
- Excessive makeup: The official rules of the Hong Kong Immigration Department explicitly advise against using overly bright makeup.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.
Official sources
Questions
- Will a standard 35x45 mm photo work for a Hong Kong visa?
- No, the Hong Kong Immigration Department strictly requires a 40x50 mm size. Photos of other sizes are rejected.
- Can I wear glasses in the photo?
- Yes, but the frames must not cover the eyes, and there must be no glare on the lenses. Tinted lenses are strictly prohibited.
- What are the requirements for a digital photo when applying online?
- The file must be in JPEG format, up to 5 MB in size, with a minimum resolution of 1200x1600 pixels (when taken with a digital camera).