Hong Kong SAR Passport Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Check the Hong Kong SAR passport photo requirements before preparing your photo. Whether you apply online or by post, following the official rules for size, background, and file limits will help you get your application ready without trouble.
Official Size and Head Dimensions
The photo size is 40 by 50 mm, or about 1.57 by 1.97 inches[1].
The head height, measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, must be 32 to 36 mm[1]. Getting these measurements right is important so your face takes up the correct amount of space in the frame.
Applicants provide a recent colour photo with applications submitted by post or drop-in, while online passport applications require a digital upload[2].
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take your passport photo at home using a digital camera or smartphone. Stand about one to two meters away from a helper who will take the picture at eye level.
Keep your face full frontal and centered in the frame[1]. Look directly at the camera lens with a natural expression.
Make sure your shoulders and upper torso are visible so that the head height falls within the 32 to 36 mm range when cropped.
Background and Lighting
The authority requires a plain white background[1]. Find a clean white wall in your home with no patterns, textures, or objects hanging behind you.
Use even lighting to help avoid shadows on your face or background. Face a window with soft natural light or use two lamps placed at equal angles to reduce harsh shadows.
Glasses, Eyes, and Headwear
Glasses are allowed if the frames do not obscure your eyes and the lenses do not reflect flash[1]. If possible, remove your glasses to avoid any issues with glare or thick frames blocking your eyes.
Do not wear headwear in the photo[1].
Rules for Children and Infants
Use a plain white background for the photo[1] by laying a white sheet on a flat surface or the floor if photographing a baby from above.
A child without a Hong Kong permanent identity card requires one additional identical colour photograph[2].
Digital Upload and File Limits
For online passport applications, upload a digital photo[2]. For postal or drop-in applications, submit a recent colour photo[2].
For an online application, use a JPEG image no larger than 5 MB. A digital-camera image must be at least 1200 × 1600 pixels[2]. Frames must not obscure your eyes or reflect flash[1].
Checking and Cropping Your Photo
Before you submit or print your picture, check that the dimensions match the official requirements. Your chin to the top of your head must measure between 32 and 36 mm[1].
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the required dimensions and check your head height quickly in your browser.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size of the photo?
The official size is 40 by 50 mm, or 1.57 by 1.97 inches[1].
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
Glasses are allowed if the frames do not obscure your eyes and the lenses do not reflect flash[1].
What color must the background be?
The background must be plain and white[1].
What are the digital file limits for online applications?
The digital file must be a JPEG up to 5120 KB, and digital-camera images must be at least 1200 by 1600 pixels[2].
Are there extra photo rules for children?
A child without a Hong Kong permanent identity card requires one additional identical colour photograph[2].
Should I submit a physical photo or a digital upload?
Online passport applications require a digital upload, while applications by post or drop-in require a recent colour photo[2].