Getting Your Hong Kong Re-entry Permit Photo Right
For a Hong Kong re-entry permit application, the photo must be 40 × 50 mm to 45 × 55 mm[1].
Official Size and Dimensions
The permitted photo size is 40 × 50 mm to 45 × 55 mm[1]. The 40 × 50 mm size used here is the smallest allowed. The cited route requires three recent colour photos[1].
The cited requirements specify no head-height or pixel limit[1]. You should still make sure your face takes up a large portion of the picture so the details are easy to see when the office reviews your application.
Background and Lighting Standards
Your photo must feature a plain light-coloured background[1]. Avoid patterned walls, dark wallpaper, textured surfaces, or any objects positioned behind you that could distract from your face. A solid white or off-white wall works best.
Good lighting is essential for a clear picture. Try to face a bright window or use balanced indoor lighting to illuminate your face evenly. Avoid heavy shadows under your chin or nose, and make sure the background remains uniformly light so the camera can capture your outline clearly.
Facial Expression and Headwear
The photo must show your full face without a hat[1].
Keep your face clearly visible and look toward the camera. The source does not specify a required expression or mouth position[1].
Rules for Children and Minors
There is a separate application form for children under 16[1]. The photo requirements are 40 × 50 mm to 45 × 55 mm, full face without a hat, and a plain light-coloured background[1].
For a child’s photo, use a plain light-coloured background[1]. If you are photographing a baby or toddler, you can lay them flat on a plain light sheet or blanket. Stand directly above them and take the picture from above while making sure their face is fully visible and looking toward the lens.
Submission and File Details
Submit a photo with your application. The department digitises it instead of sticking it onto the permit[1].
The cited photo requirements do not specify a digital file-size limit[1].
How to Take Your Photo at Home
Set up your camera or phone at eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face. It is usually best to ask a friend or family member to take the picture rather than trying to take a selfie, which can distort your features and make your arm visible.
Stand against a plain light-coloured wall and look straight ahead with your shoulders square to the camera. Once you capture a clear picture, upload your image to the tool above to crop it to the required dimensions.
Printing at a Kiosk and Avoiding Refusals
If you need printed copies, you can place your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6-inch photo sheet and print it at any ordinary local kiosk. Cut the printed photos carefully along the edges using clean scissors or a paper cutter to get straight, clean lines.
The photo must have a plain, light-coloured background and show your full face without a hat[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Hong Kong re-entry permit photo?
The permitted size is from 40 × 50 mm to 45 × 55 mm[1].
Can I wear glasses in my re-entry permit photo?
The official rules do not specify details about glasses, but it is recommended to take them off to avoid glare and reflections[1].
Are head coverings allowed in the photo?
The photo must show your full face without a hat[1].
Do children have to follow the same photo rules?
Yes, the published photo size and background requirements apply to the under-16 application route as well[1].
How many photos do I need to provide?
You need to submit three recent colour photos for your application route[1].