The general specification and local upload field
The published photo sheet gives a digital size range. Manchester’s upload FAQ instead says dimensions must not exceed 354 × 472. Follow the instructions for the centre processing your application, rather than assuming the largest general size will upload everywhere.
Do not derive the digital crop from the print size
The paper and digital specifications use different aspect ratios. A 33 × 48 mm print is not simply the same rectangle expressed in pixels. Choose the required output before framing the image.
Keep a record of the active instructions
Merodim tip: save the centre’s photo guidance with your application checklist. If a portal error conflicts with that guidance, keep the error text and ask the centre which upload dimensions it expects.
Problems and practical fixes.
Use the issue you can see to choose your next step.
- A larger file is rejected despite matching the general sheet
- Compare it with the local centre’s upload instructions before repeatedly changing compression.
- The uploaded photo belongs to another applicant
- Reopen the selected file and verify the person before submission, particularly when preparing a family’s applications.
- A print layout is uploaded as a portrait
- Export one digital portrait. A sheet containing several photos is a different output.
Check the instructions for your application.
Reviewed October 3, 2026. Requirements above are attributed to the issuing authority; Merodim tips are practical preparation advice.
Chinese Visa Application Service Centre · Photo specifications ↗Manchester Visa Centre · Online photo upload instructions ↗