Japan Visa Photo (45 × 45 mm) Requirements and Size Guide
Everything you need to know about Japan visa photo requirements, including the 45x45mm square format, white background rules, pose guidelines, and how to take a compliant Japanese visa photo at home.
Japan Visa Photo Specifications
Requirement
Specification
Country
Japan (日本)
Document Type
Visa
Photo Size
45 × 45 mm (4.5 × 4.5 cm, square)
Resolution (DPI)
Minimum 300 DPI
Digital Photo Size
531 × 531 pixels (at 300 DPI)
Max Digital File Size
Less than 120 KB
Borders
No borders or edges
Background Color
White or off-white
Color
Color only
Number of Photos Required
1 (pasted on application form)
Recency
Taken within the last 6 months
Size Diagram
Key measurements: The photo must be exactly 45 × 45 mm (square format, no borders). Your face should occupy approximately 70–80% of the photograph, with the head centered. Eyes should be in the upper portion of the photo.
Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI will automatically crop to 45 × 45 mm square, remove the background, and ensure it meets all Japan visa requirements.
Detailed Japan Visa Photo Requirements
Photo Basics
Must be in color, taken within the last 6 months
Clear, sharp, and in focus — no blur or pixelation
No borders or edges around the photo
No filters, digital alterations, or retouching
No scanned or photocopied photos — original photographs only
No selfies — have someone else take the photo
Pose and Expression
Face the camera directly — full front view, facing forward
Neutral facial expression — mouth closed, no smiling
Both eyes open and clearly visible
No hat or head covering (unless for religious reasons)
Head not tilted or rotated
Only the applicant in the photo — no other persons or objects
Background
White or off-white uniform background, no shadows, patterns, or objects
Glasses
Not allowed. Remove all eyewear including prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses before taking the photo.
Head Coverings
No hat — head must be bare
Only for religious reasons may a head covering be worn
Full face must be visible from chin to forehead and both sides
Clothing
Normal everyday clothing
No uniforms or costume-like attire
Avoid white or very light-colored tops that may blend with the background
Important Notes
The photo must be pasted on the visa application form in the designated photo box
Do not staple or use clips — paste it securely
Some Japanese embassies or consulates may accept 35 × 45 mm as an alternative size — check with your local embassy before submitting
Source: Requirements are based on standard Japanese embassy and consulate guidelines worldwide. Always verify with your local Japanese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date photo requirements.
Any modern smartphone works. Clean the lens, use the highest resolution setting. Use a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you.
2
Good Lighting
Face a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight and harsh shadows. Our AI will fix the background to plain white.
Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically replace it with a compliant white background.
3
Dress Appropriately
Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid white tops that blend with the background. No hats. Religious head coverings are allowed if the full face is visible.
4
Pose Correctly
Face forward directly toward the camera. Head straight, not tilted. Both ears should be visible. Hair should not cover your face.
5
Neutral Expression
Keep your eyes open and mouth closed. No smiling or frowning. Remove glasses before taking the photo.
Good and Bad Examples
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Japan visa photo?
Exactly 45 × 45 mm (square format, no borders). This is the standard size accepted by most Japanese embassies and consulates worldwide.
How many photos do I need?
You need 1 photo. It must be pasted on the visa application form in the designated photo box.
Can I wear glasses?
No. Glasses are not allowed in Japan visa photos. Remove all eyewear including prescription glasses before taking the photo.
What background is required?
Plain white or off-white, uniform, with no shadows, patterns, or objects behind you.
Can I take it with my phone?
Yes! Upload your photo to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will crop to the 45×45mm square format and ensure full compliance with Japan visa requirements.
Do all Japanese embassies accept 45x45mm?
The 45×45mm square format is the standard Japan visa photo size. However, some embassies or consulates may also accept 35×45mm. Always check with your local Japanese embassy before submitting.
What if my photo is rejected?
Your visa application may be delayed or returned. Using PassportPhoto.help ensures your photo meets all requirements before you submit.
