Japan Visa Photo Size & Specifications – Complete Guide for Indians

The Japan visa photo size is 45×45 mm (2 inches & 2 inches) with a white background for tourist visa applications. Photos must be recent, and any photos with dark or patterned backgrounds will not be accepted. In this blog, we will cover all the essential rules associated with Japan visa photo requirements to help you get your visa on time. 

Image Source

Specification	Japan Visa Photo Requirement
Size	45 mm × 45 mm (2 × 2 inches)
Face Size	About 60-70% of frame (32-36 mm from chin to crown)
Face Orientation	Full face forward, eyes open, neutral expression (no smile), head straight
Background	Plain white (no patterns, shadows, or objects)
Quantity	2 identical photos typically needed
Accessories	No hats or headgear unless religious; glasses if used must not glare or hide eyes
Photo Age	Taken within the last 6 months
Clothing	Clothing that contrasts with the white background; avoid uniforms or logos

Photo Size

To avoid delays in your Japan visa application, make sure your photo meets the required specifications for size, age, and background. Here’s a quick overview:

Photo Size in MM	45 mm x 45 mm
Photo Size in CM	4.5 cm x 4.5 cm
Photo Size in Inches	2 inches x 2 inches
Photo Size in Pixels	600 dpi

Photo Color & Recentness

Age of the Photo

The photo should be recent, taken within the last 6 months. Photos older than this may be rejected, as they may not be your current appearance.

Color

Japan visa photos must be in color. Black-and-white images will not be accepted. Ensure the colors are natural and not edited or poorly lit.

Photo Background & Lighting

Background

The background should be plain white, with no patterns, shadows, or objects. Here are a few key points to remember:

• Avoid dark, patterned, or colored backgrounds.
• Take the photo against a smooth, light-colored wall or background.
• There should be no visible objects in the background, like furniture, people, or decorations.

Lighting

Good lighting is important to maintain the Japan visa photo quality standards for Indians

• Lighting should be even and not harsh on your face or the background.
• Natural light is preferred, but if artificial light is used, make sure it doesn’t cause glare or uneven lighting.
• Photo should not be overexposed or underexposed; aim for a balanced brightness where your features are visible.

Face Visibility & Expressions

Your face should occupy 70-80% of the photo so it is clearly visible. This means the distance from the top of your head to your chin should occupy a good portion of the image. If your face is too small or too big in the frame, the photo may be rejected.

Face Orientation

Another Japan visa photo requirement is that your head must be centered and facing forward. This means:

• No tilting or turning of the head.
• Shoulders should be square to the camera, and you should not be leaning.
• Symmetrical alignment so your facial features are evenly positioned within the frame.

Facial Expression

A neutral expression is required. This means:

• No smiling, frowning, or raising eyebrows.
• The mouth should be closed, and the eyes should be open and looking at the camera.
• Both eyes should be visible, with no hair, glasses, or other obstructions.

Suggested Read: Know How to Book Japan Visa Appointment Easily 

Attire & Accessories

Attire

For your photo specification for a Japan visa, stick to simple, everyday clothing:

• Solid colors are preferred. Avoid wearing white, as it may blend in with the white background, causing your face to lack definition.
• Casual attire is acceptable, but clothing should be modest and not distracting. Avoid clothing with logos, patterns, or designs.
• Avoid ties, bow ties, or other formal accessories that may divert attention from your face. Also, do not wear uniforms or clothing resembling official attire, such as police or military uniforms.

Suggested Read: How to Book a Japan Visa Extension for Indian Citizens? 

Accessories

• Glasses: 

Glasses are generally discouraged in Japan visa photos. However, if you must wear them for medical reasons, ensure they meet the following criteria:

• Frames should not cover any part of the eyes.
• Lenses must be clear, without any tint, glare, or reflections. Sunglasses or tinted glasses are not permitted.

• Hearing Aids and Medical Devices: 

If you wear a hearing aid or other necessary medical device, you can wear it for the photo as long as it does not obstruct any facial features.

• Jewelry: 

Small, subtle jewelry is allowed, provided it doesn’t cover any part of your face. Avoid large earrings, necklaces, or other accessories that may cast shadows or draw attention away from your face.

• Headwear:

Head coverings are only allowed for religious reasons. If you wear religious headwear, ensure that:

• The covering does not obscure any facial features, from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead.
• Your face remains clearly visible from the front, without shadows or obstructions.
• Any headwear must be free of patterns or designs that may distract from your facial features.

Other types of headwear, such as hats, caps, or fashion accessories, are not permitted in visa photos. If you must wear headwear for medical reasons, you’ll likely need a doctor’s note as proof, depending on the embassy’s specific requirements.

Makeup

For Japan visa photo requirements for Indian tourists, your makeup should be minimal and natural so that it doesn’t alter your appearance significantly. 

• Mascara and Eyelashes: You can wear mascara, but avoid heavy eyeliner or false eyelashes, as they may obscure your eyes.
• Lipstick: Natural-looking lipstick is allowed. Avoid bright or bold colors that could distract from a clear view of your face.
• Hair Color and Wigs: Hair should be natural in color. If you wear a wig, it should not alter your appearance significantly. Brightly colored wigs or unnatural hair colors should be avoided.
• Other Cosmetics: Foundation and concealer should be applied lightly, avoiding anything that significantly changes your natural appearance.

Japan visa photos require a straightforward, accurate representation of your face. Therefore, the makeup and overall appearance should align with these Japan visa photo guidelines to avoid any issues with your application.

Japan Visa Photo Requirements for Children 

Infants

• Eyes open and facing the camera (partially open may be accepted).
• Use a plain white background (e.g., blanket/sheet).
• No hands, parents, or objects visible.
• Head centered and facing forward; a slight angle is allowed.
• Photos can be taken lying on a flat surface or in a baby photo booth.

Children under 10

• Eyes must be fully open and looking at the camera.
• Neutral expression; no smiles or frowns.
• Face the camera directly, head centered.
• No parents or visible support in the frame.

Common Reasons for Japan Visa Photo Rejections

Here are some common reasons why Japan visa photos may be rejected:

1. Incorrect Size: Photos that do not adhere to the exact 45 mm x 45 mm size may be rejected. 
2. Non-White Background: Photos with a background color other than white, or those with patterns or shadows, are often rejected. 
3. Poor Lighting or Blurry Image: Low-quality images due to poor lighting, pixelation, or blurriness will not meet the visa requirements. 
4. Face Obstruction: Items that cover or obscure facial features, such as hair, large jewelry, or headwear (unless worn for religious reasons), can lead to rejection. The entire face, from the chin to the top of the forehead, should be visible.
5. Glare or Reflection on Glasses: If you wear glasses, any glare, reflections, or frames covering part of your eyes will result in rejection. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are also not allowed.
6. Incorrect Expression: A neutral expression is required. Smiling, frowning, or any other facial expression will result in the photo being deemed non-compliant.

Suggested Read: Japan Visa Rejection for Indians | Tips to Avoid Rejection 

By following the outlined guidelines for Japan visa photo requirements for Indians, you can avoid rejection and improve your chances of a smooth application process. If you wish to make official inquiries, check out the official Embassy of Japan website here.

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FAQs

What is the standard size for visa photos for Indian citizens applying for a Japan visa?

The standard size for Japan visa photos is 45 mm x 45 mm (approximately 2 inches by 2 inches).

Can I use a photo with a colored background for my Japan visa application?

No, the background must be plain white. The photo required for Japan visa must not have colored or patterned backgrounds in any way. 

Are glasses allowed in Japan visa photos?

Yes, glasses are allowed, but they must be clear with no tint, glare, or reflection. The frames must not cover any part of your eyes. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are not permitted.

What facial expression should I have in my Japan visa photo?

For Japan visit visa photo requirements, a neutral expression is required. Your mouth should be closed, and you should look directly at the camera. Smiling, frowning, or any other expressions are not permitted.

What should I do if my Japan visa photo is rejected?

If your photo is rejected, you will need to retake it and submit a new one that adheres strictly to the Japan visa photo requirements for Indian travelers. It’s a good idea to review the Japan visa photo guidelines and consult with a professional photo service if necessary.

Are there specific requirements for infant visa photos?

Yes, the Japan visa photo requirements for Indian infants are very specific. Ideally, the infant’s eyes should be open, but partially open eyes may be acceptable for very young babies. The background should be plain white, and no objects or visible support, such as a parent’s hand, should appear in the photo.