How should a Hong Kong visa photo look?
Hong Kong uses a size that is unusual globally: 40×50 mm: neither 35×45 nor 33×48. The same spec covers the HKSAR passport, the Document of Identity and the Re-entry Permit. Validity is six months and the Immigration Department returns postal applications with substandard photos unprocessed. Head height: including the top of the hair: is held to 32-36 mm.
The body that sets the spec
The standard is published by the Immigration Department (IMMD); the HKSAR passport, Document of Identity and Re-entry Permit share the same 40×50 mm frame. The photo must be submitted within six months of the capture date. IMMD does not accept photos attached with paper clips, folded, or written on the back.
Workflow after the shoot
The frame goes to PhotoID Studio and the Hong Kong preset is selected; the app aligns the face, cleans the background to pure white and exports 40×50 mm at 300 DPI. From the same frame the preset can be switched to a China or Taiwan layout. For postal submission the back and edges of the print are kept clean.
Capture setup and direction
Seat the customer 1.5-2 m in front of the white backdrop with shoulders parallel to the camera. Camera on a tripod, lens at eye level. Standard setup: a 50-85 mm portrait lens, f/8 aperture, a softbox at 45° with a reflector on the opposite side. Cue: "chin slightly back, mouth closed, eyes fully open, neutral expression". Because IMMD lists glare as a rejection reason, glasses are usually removed; if medically required, a single off-axis light reduces reflection.
Reasons for rejection at IMMD
• Wrong size: 35×45 or 33×48 mm prints are rejected for Hong Kong; only 40×50 mm is valid. • Non-white backdrop or visible shadow. • Flash reflection on glasses; a frame crossing the eyes. • A frame older than six months from the capture date. • Postal submissions clipped or folded. • Head, including the top of the hair, outside the 32-36 mm range. • A smile, visible teeth, or an open mouth.
For studios in Hong Kong
Hong Kong studios run busy on HKSAR passport, Document of Identity and Re-entry Permit renewals all year. The PhotoID Studio Hong Kong preset locks the 40×50 mm white background; switching from the same frame to a China or Schengen format is a one-click move.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Hong Kong photo size 35×45 mm?
No. Hong Kong uses a unique 40×50 mm size. Prints at 35×45 mm or 33×48 mm are rejected by IMMD.
What matters for a postal application?
The print must not be folded, attached with paper clips, or written on the back. IMMD returns these applications unprocessed.
Is the same photo enough for the passport and Document of Identity?
Yes. The same 40×50 mm white-background print covers HKSAR passport, Document of Identity and Re-entry Permit.
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