When applying for the Home Return Permit, specific photo requirements must be met. A compliant photo will make your application process smoother. Capture HK has compiled the Home Return Permit photo specifications, including size, background, clothing, and other details, and recommends certified studios to help you prepare your photo.

The photo requirements for applying for the Home Return Permit are strict, and failure to comply may result in rejection. Below are some key specifications to ensure your photo meets the requirements:

Photo Colour and Size Specifications

• Time: A recent (within six months) colour photo
• Size: The photo size must be 1.5 x 2 inches, not exceeding 45 x 55mm and not smaller than 40 x 50mm

Background Colour

• Background Colour: Pure white, with no gradients, shadows, or other people or objects

Clothing

• Clothing: It is recommended to wear dark-coloured, collared clothing. High-neck clothing should be avoided, and uniforms are not allowed. Since the background is white, avoid wearing white clothing.
• Glasses: Coloured glasses are not allowed (except for medical reasons). Thick-framed glasses should be avoided, and the frame should not cover the eyes. No glare should be present on the lenses.
• Headwear and Hair Accessories: No head coverings are allowed unless for religious, medical, or cultural reasons, and they should not obstruct the face or cause shadows. Non-permanent accessories should not block the face.

Lighting

• Lighting: Ensure the environment has balanced lighting
• Exposure: Proper exposure with no shadows or bright spots

Expression and Pose Recommendations

• Expression: Natural expression, eyes wide open, and hair should not cover the eyes. Heavy makeup should be avoided.
• Pose: Maintain a straight posture, with shoulders level, and face the camera directly.

Photo Clarity/Paper Specifications

• Clarity: True-to-colour, with no retouching of facial features such as scars, moles, or hairstyles.
• Scanning Resolution: The scanning resolution should be no lower than 300DPI.

File Format Requirements

• File Format: JPEG

1. Whystudiohk

Whystudiohk offers convenient Home Return Permit photo services at their Kowloon West (Kwai Hing), Hong Kong Island (Sheung Wan), and New Territories West (Tuen Mun) branches, all located in the same building as the China Travel Service. This makes it easy for applicants to complete the photo session and pick up the photo on the same day. Prices start from HK$50.

2. Owl Photo studio

Owl Photography Studio provides a one-stop Home Return Permit photo service, including professional photo shooting, makeup, and qualified receipts. The price is $299. The studio has four locations in Central, Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Kwun Tong, all conveniently near MTR stations.

3. Fotomax

Fotomax branches are equipped with professional passport photo booths, offering convenient and fast services. Customers can easily walk in and take their photos according to their needs, with no appointment necessary. They use softbox lighting to ensure a comfortable shooting environment and offer services for everyone from infants to adults.

4. Studio Photobi HK

Studio Photobi HK provides a 15-minute express service. After the photo session, the image is uploaded to the system for specification checks, allowing clients to confirm if their photo meets the requirements immediately, saving time and improving efficiency.

1. What is a photo verification receipt?

A photo verification receipt is issued by the photography service provider after the photo is uploaded to the photo verification centre for checks. If the photo meets the specifications, a qualified barcode is generated and printed by the service provider. The verified digital photo is uploaded to the receiving unit, and the barcode on the receipt is scanned for use in the application.

2. Can the Home Return Permit photo also be used for Special Administrative Region passports/BNO documents?

Yes, you can use the same photo. It’s recommended to inform the photographer of the intended use before the session.

Do you have a box full of cherished old photos that you’re worried will fade or get damaged over time? Want to digitise these precious memories for easy sharing and preservation? Capture HK offers professional photo album digitisation services, allowing you to easily convert these treasured memories into high-quality digital files that will last forever!

Capture HK uses high-quality scanning equipment to ensure that the scanned photos are clear and detailed, restoring the original colours and details. We offer multiple file format options, making it easy to view and share your photos on different devices. More importantly, we value your memories, and all photos undergo strict processing and preservation to ensure your memories are safe and reliable, giving you peace of mind.

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References

• Application for the "Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents" - ctshk
• Entry and Exit Document Photo Guidelines - National Immigration Administration
• ID Photo Specifications - Owl Photo Studio
• Why Studio
• One-stop ID Photo Shooting Service to Capture Professional and Precious Moments - Fotomax
• Studio Photobi HK