Foreigners in Guangdong need to submit digital photos when applying for visas starting today, according to a new rule released by Guangdong’s exit and entry authorities.

The new rule includes Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents as well as expatriates who formerly had to provide print photos to the public security bureau for visa applications.

Digital photo service is available at photo studios designated by the bureau, whose computers are connected with the exit and entry department’s photo verification system. Once a photo is taken, the studios will upload it to the bureau’s system and print a receipt if the photo is verified and accepted. Applicants will be rejected if they fail to produce a receipt for the photo.

Ning Jian, an officer of the exit and entry administration department of the Shenzhen Municipal Public Security Bureau, reminded applicants not to forget to provide a printed photo together with the receipt.

Chinese residents started this practice in April last year when the provincial exit and entry authorities opened the Web site www.gdjczx.com.cn to verify photos.

Previously, residents had to hand in two or three photos when applying for travel permits and passports.