Hong Kong Passport Photo Requirements: Complete 2026 Guide
Complete guide to Hong Kong SAR passport photo requirements from the Immigration Department, covering the 40x50mm format, white background rules, and appearance standards.
Overview
Hong Kong SAR passport photos must comply with the standards set by the Immigration Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Hong Kong uses a distinctive 40 mm x 50 mm photo format, which is larger than the standard 35x45 mm used by most countries.
You will need a compliant photo when applying for or renewing an HKSAR passport, a Document of Identity for Visa Purposes (DI), or a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID). The HKSAR passport is valid for 10 years for adults aged 16 and over, and 5 years for children under 16.
Because Hong Kong uses a non-standard photo size, it is important to use the correct dimensions. Standard 35x45 mm photos used in many other countries will not be accepted for Hong Kong applications.
That is why searches like renewing Hong Kong passport and raw size lookups like 40x50 mm usually belong together. In practice they are both trying to solve the same problem: the HKSAR route uses a non-standard 40 × 50 mm format, and a normal 35 × 45 passport print from another country will not carry over cleanly.
Official Specifications
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Document | Passport/Travel Document |
| Size | 40 × 50 mm |
| Background | White |
| Head height | 32–36 mm |
The Hong Kong passport photo must measure 40 mm wide by 50 mm tall. This is a unique format that differs from most countries. The photo must be recent, taken within the last 6 months, and must accurately reflect the applicant’s current appearance.
The head height from chin to crown must be between 32 mm and 36 mm. The face must be centred horizontally and positioned so that the eyes are roughly in the upper half of the photo. The distance from the bottom of the chin to the bottom edge of the photo should be approximately 7–9 mm.
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo dimensions | 40 mm x 50 mm |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 32–36 mm |
| Background | White |
| Recency | Taken within last 6 months |
| Print quality | Photo paper, sharp focus |
| Colour | Full colour, true-to-life |
Important Size Note
Hong Kong’s 40x50 mm format is not the same as the common 35x45 mm used by most countries. Do not crop a standard passport photo to fit; this will alter the head size ratio. Use Passlens with the Hong Kong preset to get the correct dimensions.
Background Requirements
The Immigration Department requires a plain white background for Hong Kong passport photos. The white must be clean and uniform across the entire image. No other background colours are accepted.
The background must be free of all shadows, patterns, textures, and extraneous objects. Shadow elimination is particularly important, as even subtle shadows near the shoulders or behind the head will cause rejection.
- Pure white background required
- No shadows on the background or on the face
- No patterns, lines, or textures
- No other people or objects visible
- Background must be evenly lit
Clothing and Appearance
The applicant must face the camera directly with a neutral, relaxed expression. The mouth must be closed, and both eyes must be open and clearly visible. The face should be evenly lit without harsh shadows.
Glasses
The Immigration Department does not allow glasses in passport photos. This includes prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses. All eyewear must be removed before taking the photo.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are only permitted for religious reasons. If worn, the covering must not obscure any facial features, and the full face from chin to forehead must be clearly visible. The Immigration Department may request documentation to verify the religious nature of the head covering.
Hair and Grooming
Hair should not obscure the face, particularly the eyes, eyebrows, and cheeks. Hairstyles that cast shadows on the face should be avoided. The Immigration Department recommends having the ears visible, though this is not a strict requirement as long as the full face is clearly shown.
Jewellery
Small, non-reflective jewellery such as stud earrings is acceptable. Large or reflective pieces that cause glare, cast shadows, or obscure facial features must be removed.
How to Make It with Passlens
Passlens includes the specific 40x50 mm Hong Kong format, saving you the hassle of finding a photographer who stocks the non-standard size.
- Open Passlens and select the Hong Kong Passport preset. This automatically configures the 40x50 mm dimensions.
- Remove your glasses before taking the photo. Wear clothing that contrasts with white.
- Take a photo with even, diffused lighting, or upload an existing image.
- Passlens will set a pure white background, detect your face, and crop to the correct 40x50 mm dimensions with the head height between 32–36 mm.
- Review your photo carefully, then download the digital file or print on photo paper. When printing, ensure your printer is set to actual size (100% scale) to maintain the 40x50 mm dimensions.
Where to Submit
Hong Kong passport applications can be submitted through multiple channels.
Online Application
The Immigration Department encourages applicants to use the online application service at immd.gov.hk. Digital photos can be uploaded during the process. Standard processing takes 10 working days for adult applications submitted online.
In Person
Applications can be submitted at Immigration Department offices, including the main office in Wan Chai and branch offices in Kwun Tong, Sha Tin, Tuen Mun, and other districts. Walk-in applicants should bring printed photos. Processing typically takes 10 working days.
By Post
Renewal applications can be submitted by post to the Immigration Department. Include two printed photos with your application. Allow additional time for postal delivery on top of the standard processing period.
Outside Hong Kong
Hong Kong residents abroad can apply through Chinese diplomatic and consular missions or the nearest office authorised to process HKSAR passport applications. Processing times vary by location but are generally 6 to 8 weeks.
Common Mistakes
The non-standard photo size is the source of many issues. Here are the top rejection reasons for Hong Kong passport photos:
- Wrong photo size: Using 35x45 mm instead of the required 40x50 mm is the most common mistake. Standard passport photos from other countries do not fit.
- Wearing glasses: All eyewear must be removed. This is a relatively recent change that some applicants miss.
- Background not pure white: Off-white or light grey backgrounds are rejected.
- Head size incorrect: The 32–36 mm range must be maintained in the 40x50 mm frame. Incorrect scaling when printing leads to wrong proportions.
- Photo not recent enough: The photo must be taken within the last 6 months and must be a true likeness.
- Shadows on the face: Shadows under the nose, around the jawline, or on the neck are common in home-taken photos with poor lighting.
- Printing at wrong scale: Home printers may resize the image. Always verify the printed dimensions measure exactly 40x50 mm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Hong Kong passport photo 40x50 mm instead of 35x45 mm?
Hong Kong has historically used the 40x50 mm format for identity documents, including the HKID card. While most countries have adopted the ICAO-standard 35x45 mm, Hong Kong has maintained its own standard. The larger format provides slightly more area for facial detail.
Can I use the same photo for my HKSAR passport and HKID card?
Yes. Both the HKSAR passport and Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) use the same 40x50 mm photo format and the same specifications. A single set of photos can be used for both applications if submitted within the required recency period.
Where can I get 40x50 mm photos printed?
In Hong Kong, most photo studios and booths produce 40x50 mm photos by default. Outside Hong Kong, this size can be harder to find. Passlens allows you to create the correct 40x50 mm image at home and print it on standard photo paper using any printer.
Are the photo requirements the same for the Document of Identity (DI)?
Yes. The Document of Identity for Visa Purposes uses the same photo specifications as the HKSAR passport: 40x50 mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses.