Japanese Passport Photo Size Guide
The Japanese passport photo is 35×45mm with a plain white background. Face should occupy 70-80% of the image, with head height between 27-40mm from chin to crown.
Japan Passport Photo Requirements (2025-2026)
Thinking about visiting the Land of the Rising Sun? Whether you're planning to explore Tokyo's neon-lit streets, experience traditional Kyoto, or work for a Japanese company, you'll need a perfect passport photo first. Japan is known for precision and attention to detail – and their passport photo requirements are no exception.
Japanese authorities are quite particular about photo specifications. A photo that might be acceptable in other countries could get rejected in Japan. But here's the good news: our free tool handles all the technical details, so you can focus on looking your best.
Official Photo Specifications
| Photo Dimensions | 35mm × 45mm (width × height) |
| Digital Size | 413 × 531 pixels (at 300 DPI) |
| Head Height | 27mm to 40mm (chin to crown) |
| Face Position | Centered, 70-80% of photo height |
| Background Color | Plain white or off-white |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, no smile |
| Photo Age | Taken within last 6 months |
Photos for Different Japan Visas
Work Visa (Engineer/Specialist)
For skilled workers, IT professionals, and specialists.
Create Now →Important Rules for Japan Photos
Glasses Policy Update (Since 2021)
Japan now recommends removing glasses for passport photos. While not strictly banned, glasses with thick frames, tinted lenses, or any glare will cause rejection. To be safe, it's best to remove them unless medically necessary.
Do's
- • Face the camera directly, head straight
- • Keep both ears visible (hair behind ears)
- • Natural skin tone, minimal retouching
- • Eyes open and clearly visible
- • Sharp focus on face
Don'ts
- • No smiling or showing teeth
- • No colored contact lenses
- • No wigs (unless for medical reasons)
- • No headphones or Bluetooth earbuds
- • No shadows on face or background
Sample Compliant Japanese Passport Photo
Here’s what a properly formatted Japanese passport photo looks like — white background, neutral expression, 35×45mm dimensions, no glasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size photo do I need for a Japanese passport? ▼
Japanese passport photos must be exactly 35mm wide × 45mm tall. This is the same size used by most European countries and Schengen visas. Your face should take up about 70-80% of the photo height, with your head measuring between 27-40mm from chin to the top of your head.
Can I smile in my Japan visa photo? ▼
No, smiling is not allowed. Japanese authorities require a completely neutral expression with your mouth closed. Even a slight smile can lead to rejection. Keep your face relaxed but expressionless – think "resting face" rather than trying to look serious or stern.
How long is a Japan visa photo valid? ▼
Your photo must be taken within the last 6 months. Japanese immigration is strict about this – if your appearance has changed noticeably (different hairstyle, significant weight change, new facial hair), you'll need a fresh photo even if it hasn't been 6 months yet.
Can I wear religious head coverings in Japan passport photos? ▼
Yes, religious head coverings like hijab are permitted for religious reasons. However, your full face from hairline to chin must be clearly visible, and the covering should not cast shadows on your face. The forehead and both cheeks must be visible.
What's the difference between passport and visa photo for Japan? ▼
The specifications are identical. Both Japanese passports and all types of Japanese visas (tourist, work, student, spouse) require 35×45mm photos with the same requirements. You can use the same photo for multiple applications as long as it was taken within 6 months.
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