Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Japanese passport photo?
Japanese passport photos must be 35x45mm (450x600 pixels at 300 DPI). The face from chin to the top of the head should measure 34mm ± 2mm. The photo must be taken within the last 6 months.
What background is required for Japanese passport photos?
Japanese passport photos require a plain, uniform background in white or a very light color. The background must be shadow-free with no patterns. Pure white is the safest choice.
Can I use a photo booth (証明写真機) for Japanese passports?
Yes, photo booths (証明写真機) found at train stations and convenience stores in Japan produce passport-compliant photos. They automatically set the correct dimensions and print on proper photo paper.
What other Japanese documents use the 35x45mm photo size?
The 35x45mm size is also used for Japanese driver's licenses (運転免許証), My Number cards (マイナンバーカード), and some visa applications. Slightly different sizes apply to resume photos (履歴書), which use 30x40mm.
