Hong Kong Identity Card Photo Requirements and Sizes
Learn how Hong Kong identity card photos work, including official rules, dimensions, and submission routes. You can use the tool above to rehearse or check your images.
Understanding Official Registration Procedures
When you register for a Hong Kong identity card, you need to understand how the process handles your photograph[1]. For ordinary in-person registration, the registration photograph is taken directly by the Immigration Department[1]. Because of this setup, you do not normally need to bring your own photo for standard local appointments[1].
The Immigration Department does not publish a single photo size for general identity-card registration. A 35 × 45 mm photo is a commonly requested studio size, not an official size. Check the requirements for your application route.
Overseas Permanent Identity Card Applications
For overseas permanent identity card applications, the Immigration Department requires a plain light-coloured background[1]. Photo requirements depend on the application route.
For an overseas permanent identity card application, provide two printed photos measuring 29 × 35 mm[1]. Check the instructions for your application route before submitting.
Background, Lighting, and Camera Setup
Taking your own photo for an overseas application requires careful attention to your environment[1]. The authority requires a plain light-coloured background for overseas permanent identity card applications[1]. Find a clean wall in your home that has no patterns, textures, or shadows cast upon it.
Good lighting helps your camera capture clear details without harsh dark spots. Face a large window to get soft natural light, or position lamps to illuminate both sides of your face evenly. Place your camera or phone at eye level on a steady surface or tripod, and stand about one to one-and-a-half meters away to keep your proportions natural.
Glasses, Headwear, and Facial Expressions
The Immigration Department says head coverings are not accepted in the registration photograph[2].
The Immigration Department says reflections on frames or tinted lenses and frames across the eyes or eyebrows will not be accepted[2]. It also says the photo should show a full-frontal face with clear features[2].
Rules for Children and Infants
Families applying for documents for minors must follow distinct criteria[1]. A child under 11 who is not taller than 90 cm must provide a 50 x 40 mm full-face photo in the specified circumstances[1].
Photographing young children requires patience and a calm setting to get a direct, forward-facing view. You can lay a plain light sheet on the floor or a bed if the child needs to lie down, provided the background remains completely clear and free of distractions[1]. Always check the height and age thresholds carefully before you take pictures of children for official submissions[1][2].
Preparing and Checking Your Photo
You can use the tool above to crop or check a photo. For official applications, follow the requirements for your application route.
For overseas permanent identity card applications, submit two 29 × 35 mm photos and use a plain light-coloured background[1]. The department takes the photo during ordinary in-person registration[1].
Frequently asked questions
Who takes the Hong Kong identity card photo?
What size do I need for an overseas application?
Can I wear glasses in my photo?
Glasses are allowed only under conditional rules, meaning they must not block your eyes or reflect light into the camera lens[1].
Are hats or headwear allowed?
Headwear is not permitted in your identity card photo[1].
What are the photo rules for young children?
A child under 11 who is not taller than 90 cm must provide a 50 x 40 mm full-face photo in the specified circumstances[1].