Everything you need to know about Japan passport photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Japan (日本) |
| Document Type | Passport (パスポート) |
| Photo Size | 35 × 45 mm (width × height) |
| Face Size (top of head to chin) | 32 – 36 mm |
| Space from Top Edge to Top of Head | 2 – 6 mm |
| Space from Side Edges to Ears | At least 2 mm each side |
| Background Color | Plain white (recommended) |
| Color | Color or black & white (both accepted) |
| Number of Photos Required | 1 |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Head Coverings | Not allowed (exceptions for religious reasons) |
| Expression | Neutral with mouth closed |
| Image Quality | Sharp and clear, no digital alteration |
The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (外務省, MOFA) has specific requirements for passport photos. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Glasses are NOT allowed in Japanese passport photos. This includes prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses. Remove all eyewear before taking the photo.
Source: 外務省 (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan) — パスポート用写真の規格
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Japan passport 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 1.2 meters (4 feet) 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 closed. No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos
A Japan passport photo must be exactly 35x45mm (width x height). The face size from the top of the head to the chin must measure between 32mm and 36mm.
No. Glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses are not allowed in Japanese passport photos. Remove all eyewear before taking the photo.
No. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed. No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions are permitted.
Yes! You can take your passport photo with any smartphone. Simply upload it to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all official Japan passport photo requirements.
A plain white background is recommended for Japanese passport photos. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a white wall, don't worry — our tool will automatically replace your background with white.
Your passport photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. It should reflect your current appearance, including any significant changes to your face such as facial hair, weight changes, or facial piercings.
No, hats and head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious reasons. Even then, your full face must be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and the head covering must not cast shadows on your face.
Yes. Both color and black-and-white photos are accepted for Japanese passports. However, color photos are recommended for better quality and clarity.
You need to submit 1 photo with your Japan passport application. The photo must meet all the size and quality requirements specified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
If your passport photo doesn't meet the requirements, your passport application will be delayed. Using PassportPhoto.help ensures your photo meets all official requirements before you submit your application, saving you time and hassle.
