Japan visa photo
Japan is the one case on this list where the answer depends on which consulate you use. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs publishes 45 by 45 mm, while many consulates also accept the ICAO standard 35 by 45 mm. Confirm before you print.
Start now · €4.99 Refund if the office rejects it
Specification
MFA standard45 x 45 mm
Often accepted35 x 45 mm (ICAO)
Head height32 to 36 mm, chin to crown
BackgroundPure white
EarsBoth fully visible
Taken withinLast 6 months
Requirements
- 45 by 45 mm per the MFA standard
- Many consulates also accept 35 by 45 mm
- Head 32 to 36 mm chin to crown
- Pure white background
- Both ears fully visible
- Neutral expression, taken within the last six months
What gets photos rejected
- Printing 45 by 45 mm for a consulate that wants 35 by 45, or the reverse
- Hair covering an ear
- An off-white or grey background where pure white is required
- A photo older than six months
Questions
What size is a Japan visa photo?
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs standard is 45 by 45 mm. Many consulates also accept the ICAO 35 by 45 mm format, so check the one handling your application before printing.
Why do sources disagree about the size?
Because both are genuinely in use. The MFA publishes the square format while individual consulates commonly accept the international rectangle. It is worth one email rather than a guess.
Do both ears need to show?
Yes, both ears must be fully visible, so hair should be tucked back.