Hong Kong SAR China Passport, Visa, and ID Photo Rules
Getting your application accepted starts with a correct photo. This guide explains the official rules for Hong Kong travel documents and IDs.
Introduction to Hong Kong Documents
The tool above helps you prepare pictures for several Hong Kong applications. These include the Hong Kong SAR passport, Hong Kong identity card, and the Hong Kong international driving permit[1][2][3].
You also need photos for the Hong Kong seaman’s identity book, the Hong Kong document of identity for visa purposes, the Hong Kong re-entry permit, and the Hong Kong visitor visa[4][5][6]. Each document has specific rules for size, head height, and submission type. Knowing these details helps you avoid delays in your application process.
Passport and Visa Document Sizes
The Hong Kong SAR passport photo requires a size of 40×50 mm[1]. For this document, your head height must measure between 32 and 36 mm from the chin to the crown[1].
The Hong Kong document of identity for visa purposes uses the same 40×50 mm size and 32 to 36 mm head height rule[1]. The international driving permit photo also uses a 40×50 mm size, though no official head height is set for it[3].
Identity Card Photo Specifications
If you are applying for a Hong Kong identity card, the required photo size is 35×45 mm[2]. There is no single official size set for head height on identity card photos[2].
This document requires digital submission rather than printed copies[2]. You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct proportions and meet these digital requirements before you apply.
Seaman's Book, Re-Entry Permit, and Visitor Visa Photos
Several official documents use a wider format where the width is greater than the height. The Hong Kong seaman’s identity book photo measures 50×40 mm[4].
The Hong Kong re-entry permit photo also uses a 50×40 mm size[5]. Similarly, the Hong Kong visitor visa photo requires a 50×40 mm size[6]. For all three of these documents, the official head height is not set by the immigration department[4][5][6].
Understanding Submission Methods
Different Hong Kong applications accept different submission formats. The passport, driving permit, seaman’s identity book, re-entry permit, and visitor visa allow both digital and printed submission methods[1][3][4][5][6].
The identity card requires digital files only[2], while the document of identity for visa purposes requires printed copies[1]. You can arrange your cropped photo onto a sheet to print as a standard 4×6-inch photo at a local kiosk.
Practical Tips for Taking Your Photo
Stand facing a window to get bright, even light on your face without harsh shadows. Keep the camera at eye level and about one to one and a half meters away from your face.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of taking a selfie to avoid perspective distortion. Keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed and look straight at the camera lens. Remove hats and dark glasses so your full facial features are clearly visible.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Hong Kong passport photo?
A Hong Kong SAR passport photo must be 40×50 mm with a head height between 32 and 36 mm[1].
Can I submit a digital photo for a Hong Kong identity card?
Yes, the Hong Kong identity card photo requires digital submission[2].
What is the photo size for a Hong Kong visitor visa?
The Hong Kong visitor visa photo measures 50×40 mm[6].
Is there a set head height for the international driving permit photo?
No, the head height for the Hong Kong international driving permit photo is not set[3].
Where can I print my passport photo?
You can arrange your cropped photos on a 4×6-inch sheet and print it as an ordinary photo at any standard print kiosk.