Everything you need to know about Japan APEC Business Travel Card photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background colour, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Japan |
| Document Type | APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) |
| Photo Size | 45 × 45 mm (4.5 × 4.5 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 70–80% of the photograph |
| Background Color | Plain white |
| Printable | Yes — check with issuing authority for quantity |
| Digital for Online Submission | Check with issuing authority |
| Digital Photo Size | At least 1063 × 1063 pixels (at 600 DPI) |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy photo-quality paper |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) allows Japanese business travellers visa-free entry to participating APEC economies. The card is a credit card-sized document that displays the issuing economy, photograph, full name, and date of birth. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
The APEC Business Travel Card is a valuable document for Japanese business people who frequently travel within the Asia-Pacific region. The card provides visa-free business travel to participating APEC member economies and access to fast-track immigration lanes at participating airports. Japan-issued ABTC applications are processed through the relevant Japanese government authority.
Glasses are generally not permitted. If you must wear them for medical reasons, ensure there is no glare or reflection on the lenses. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are strictly not allowed. Your eyes must be clearly visible through the lenses with no red-eye effect.
Check with the issuing authority for the exact number of photographs required with your APEC Business Travel Card application. All submitted photos must meet the requirements listed above.
The APEC Business Travel Card provides visa-free business travel to participating APEC economies:
Source: APEC Official — ABTC FAQ
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Japan APEC Business Travel Card photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.
Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 1.5 metres in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth must be closed. Do not smile — a neutral expression is required for Japan APEC Business Travel Card photos.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable APEC Business Travel Card photos
A Japan APEC Business Travel Card photo must be 45x45mm (square format). The photo must have a plain white background with your head occupying approximately 70–80% of the photograph.
Check with the issuing authority for the exact number of photographs required. All submitted photos must be identical and meet the official requirements.
The background must be plain white, with no patterns, objects, shadows, or other people visible. The background must be uniform and evenly lit throughout.
The photo must be taken within the last 6 months to ensure an accurate likeness. Photos older than 6 months may not be accepted.
The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) is a credit card-sized document that allows visa-free business travel to participating APEC economies. It displays the holder's photograph, full name, date of birth, and issuing economy. Card holders enjoy fast-track entry through special APEC lanes at airports across the Asia-Pacific region.
No. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open. Smiling is not permitted.
Glasses are generally not permitted. If you must wear them for medical reasons, ensure there is no glare or reflection on the lenses. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are strictly not allowed.
You apply for a Japan APEC Business Travel Card through the relevant Japanese government authority handling ABTC applications. Contact the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your local immigration office for details on eligibility, forms, and processing times.
