Japan Passport Photo 35mm x 45mm requirements

1. Basic Photo Specifications

• Quantity: One photo (taken within the past 6 months).
• Standard Size: 45mm (height) x 35mm (width).
• Alternative Size: U.S. standard passport photos (2in x 2in) are generally accepted by consulates in the U.S.
• Facial Dimensions: The distance from the top of the head to the chin must be between 32mm and 36mm.
• Head Margin: There should be a gap of approximately 4mm (plus or minus 2mm) between the top of the head and the top edge of the photo.

2. Composition and Quality

• Background: Must be solid/plain (no patterns or shadows) and a light color (typically white or off-white).
• Pose: Full face view, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression (mouth closed).
• Image Quality: Must be clear, in sharp focus, and have proper contrast/brightness. Poor quality digital photos or home prints may be rejected; professional studio photos are highly recommended.
• Recency: Must be an accurate current likeness of the applicant.

3. Appearance and Attire

• Eyes: Eyes must be open and clearly visible. No red-eye or glare on glasses.
• Eyewear: If glasses are worn, the frames must not cover the eyes. Tinted lenses or sunglasses are not allowed.
• Headgear: No hats, caps, or headbands. Religious headcoverings are permitted only if they do not obscure facial features (from the hairline to the chin).
• Hair: Hair should not cover the eyes or the outline of the face.
• Obstructions: No masks, heavy jewelry that reflects light, or wireless earbuds/headphones.

4. Prohibited Photos (Common Reasons for Rejection)

• Photos with shadows on the face or background.
• Photos where the person is leaning or the head is tilted.
• Photos with "busy" backgrounds or objects visible (including the back of a chair or another person).
• Photos that are blurry, grainy, or have "pixelation" from low-resolution printing.
• School "yearbook" photographs are often not accepted due to non-standard lighting or backgrounds.

5. Special Cases (Infants/Children)

• Children must be photographed alone (no parents' hands or shoulders visible).
• For infants who cannot sit up, they may be photographed lying on a plain white sheet, ensuring no shadows fall on the face.

References

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA): Passport Photo Standards.pdf
• Consulate-General of Japan in San Francisco: Passport Application/Renewal