Complete Guide to ID Photo Specifications for Japanese Visa Applications

One of the most common mistakes when applying for a status of residence (visa) in Japan is ID photo specifications. If the photo does not meet the requirements, your application may be delayed or you may be asked to resubmit. Be sure to prepare your photo correctly.

1. Photo Size and Basic Specifications

Required Specifications

Size: Height 4cm × Width 3cm
Date taken: Photo taken within the last 3 months
Color: Color photo
Quantity: 1 photo per application form (may vary depending on application type)

Points to Note

Note that this is different from Japanese passport photos (45mm × 35mm), so be careful not to confuse them
It is also different from My Number Card photos (45mm × 35mm)
Since this is the same photo printed on your residence card, prepare a sharp, clear photo

Document	Photo Size	Notes
Status of Residence Application	Height 4cm × Width 3cm	The specifications described in this article
Japanese Passport	Height 4.5cm × Width 3.5cm	Different from status of residence application photo
My Number Card	Height 4.5cm × Width 3.5cm	Same specifications as passport
Driver’s License	Height 3cm × Width 2.4cm	Smallest size

2. Photography Conditions

The following criteria must all be met.

Background

Plain background (white or light solid color)
No shadows, patterns, furniture, or other objects visible
Gradient backgrounds are also not allowed

Face

Facing directly forward: Look straight at the camera
Neutral expression: Natural expression (mouth closed)
No hats: Hats and head coverings not allowed except for religious reasons
No sunglasses: Medical eye patches are also not allowed
Eyes, nose, and chin must be clearly visible: Face must not be covered by hair

Face Size Ratio

From the top of the head to the bottom of the chin approximately 2.7cm to 3.0cm (approximately 70% of the photo height)
Centered in the photo
Approximately 2–6mm of space above the top of the head

3. Can I Wear Glasses?

Regular glasses are allowed, but the following cases are not permitted:

Strong light reflection on the lenses
Eyes obscured (e.g., thick frames)
Tinted lenses (including sunglasses)
Shadows around the eyes

Recently, the Immigration Services Agency recommends taking photos without glasses if possible, in order to improve the accuracy of facial recognition systems.

4. Notes for Digital Photo Submission

When applying online (the online residence application system) or submitting data, additional specifications apply.

File Specifications

File format: JPEG
File size: 300KB or less (recommended)
Resolution: At least 600 × 800 pixels

Digital Photo Notes

No background removal: Photos with a transparent or composited background are not accepted
No excessive retouching: Skin retouching, facial contour changes, eye size adjustments, etc. are not allowed
No filters: SNS filters, whitening filters, etc. are not allowed
Resolution must be clear: Blurry or noisy photos will be rejected

Since recent Japanese immigration screening uses facial recognition systems, excessive editing can cause problems at immigration. Use a photo that looks the same as you do in person.

5. These Photos Will Be Rejected

Photos that fall under the following categories will be rejected or you will be asked to resubmit.

Reason for Rejection	Description
Photo older than 3 months	Photo taken more than 3 months ago
Exaggerated expression	Unnatural expressions such as smiling or frowning
Hair covering eyes	Bangs must not cover the eyes
Cropped from a snapshot	Cropped everyday photos are not acceptable
Submitted in incorrect passport photo dimensions	4.5cm × 3.5cm is not suitable for status of residence applications
Insufficient resolution	Photo that would be blurry when printed
Excessive retouching	Photo that does not look like you in person
Shadows	Photo with shadows on the face or background

6. Where Should I Take My Photo?

Option 1: Automated Photo Booths in Japan (証明写真機)

Automated photo booths installed near train stations, shopping malls, and government offices.

Cost: ¥700–¥1,000
Time: Approximately 5 minutes
Advantages: Quick and convenient. Most offer 4cm × 3cm selection
Disadvantages: Limited control over lighting and background

Major automated photo booth brands: Ki-Re-i (DNP), Photo-Me, 富士フイルム

Option 2: Photo Studio (写真館)

For more precise specifications or for important applications such as permanent residence or naturalization, a professional photo studio is recommended.

Cost: ¥1,500–¥3,000
Time: Approximately 15–30 minutes
Advantages: Lighting, background, and posture can be adjusted. High specification accuracy
Disadvantages: Higher cost and may require an appointment

Option 3: Take at Home and Print at a Convenience Store

Since modern smartphone cameras have good image quality, taking your own photo and printing it at a convenience store is the most cost-effective method.

Cost: ¥30–¥200 (convenience store printing cost only)
How to take the photo:
1. Take the photo in front of a white wall under natural light or bright indoor lighting
2. Position the camera at eye level and shoot straight on
3. Edit the photo to the correct specifications using an ID photo app (e.g., 「証明写真アプリ」)
4. Use the photo printing service at a convenience store (Seven-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)

Recommended apps: Free apps such as 「証明写真アプリ」 and 「パスポート写真」 allow you to select the 4cm × 3cm format.

Practical Tips

Administrative scrivener offices frequently receive correction requests due to photo specification errors.

Photo review is particularly strict for the following applications:

Permanent residence applications: Since the photo is used on the residence card for a long period, clarity is important
Change of status of residence: Since a new residence card is issued, specifications must be thoroughly confirmed
Dependent visa applications: Photos are required for all family members, so children’s photos must also meet specifications

Additional Tips

Prepare 2–3 extra photos in case additional documents need to be submitted
Keep the digital original data, as it can be used for online applications
Given the 3-month validity period, it is best to take the photo immediately before submitting your application

Conclusion

In Japanese status of residence applications, the photo is not just a formality — it is a key element for identity verification. A small mistake can affect the entire review schedule, so be sure to follow the specifications above when preparing your photo.

For the full flow of the status of residence application process, see Status of Residence Application Process Guide.