Japan Residence Card / Professional Photo Specifications

Japan Residence Card Photo Size Diagram

Detailed Japan Residence Card Photo Requirements

The 30×40 mm photo format is widely used in Japan for various official purposes including residence cards (在留カード), certificates of eligibility (在留資格認定証明書), and other professional documents. This format replaced the former alien registration card photo requirements after the system was overhauled in July 2012. Below is a comprehensive guide.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
• Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
• The photo must be clear, sharp, and in focus with high resolution
• No filters or digital alterations — no retouching, airbrushing, or manipulation
• No scanned or photocopied photos
• No red-eye or flash reflections
• No borders or edges around the photo

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 30 × 40 mm (3 × 4 cm) in portrait orientation
• Head height: approximately 25 mm measured from chin to the top of your hair
• Face height: approximately 32–36 mm from chin to top of head
• Head occupies approximately 70–80% of the photograph
• Printed on high-quality photo paper (matte or glossy)
• You must provide 2 identical photos for Certificate of Eligibility applications

Background

• Use a plain white or light plain uniform background
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible
• No shadows on your face or behind your head
• Clear contrast between your face and the background

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — full front view, head not tilted or rotated
• Maintain a neutral expression — mouth closed, no smiling
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible, looking straight at the camera
• Ensure your face is fully visible from chin to forehead
• Both sides of your face must be visible
• Shoulders must be squared and visible

Glasses

Glasses should be removed when taking your photo. If you must wear prescription glasses:

• There must be no glare or reflection on the lenses
• No shadow cast by the frames on your face
• Your eyes must be clearly visible through the lenses
• Sunglasses and tinted lenses are never allowed

If possible, remove your glasses before taking the photo to avoid any risk of rejection.

Head Coverings

• No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn for religious reasons
• If worn for religious reasons, your full face must be visible from chin to forehead and both sides of the face
• The head covering must not cast shadows on your face
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms
• Avoid wearing white or very light-coloured tops that may blend with the white background

About the Residence Card System

Japan replaced the old Alien Registration System (外国人登録制度) with the new Residence Card (在留カード / Zairyu Card) system in July 2012. All mid- to long-term foreign residents in Japan receive a Residence Card instead of the former Alien Registration Card. The photo requirements remain the same: 30×40 mm with a plain white or light background.

Certificate of Eligibility

The Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書 / Zairyu Shikaku Nintei Shomeisho) is a document issued by a regional immigration bureau in Japan before a foreign national enters the country. It certifies that the applicant meets the conditions for landing in Japan and is used to facilitate the visa issuance process at a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad. Two identical photos (30×40 mm) are required for the application.

How to Take a Japan Residence Card Photo at Home

Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Japan residence card (30×40 mm) photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera can take a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and set to the highest resolution. Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo. Avoid selfies as they tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows on your face.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically replace the background with a clean white.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that may blend with the white background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face remains visible from chin to forehead.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 metres in front of the camera. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible, with head, shoulders, and upper body in the frame. Both sides of your face must be visible.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face completely relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. Do not smile. No squinting, frowning, or any exaggerated expressions. Look straight at the camera lens.

Good and Bad Examples

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions