Japanese permanent residence application photo (30×40 mm)

Official Photo Size and Head Measurements

The official size for your application photo is 30 by 40 mm, which equals 1.18 by 1.57 inches^[1][2]. You must attach this photo to your permanent residence application form when you submit your paperwork to the office^[1].

Your head height, measured strictly from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, must measure between 22 and 28 mm^[2]. You must also leave a top margin of 2 to 8 mm between the top of your head and the upper edge of the photo frame^[2].

Following these exact dimensions helps you meet the basic size requirements set by the authorities. Always double-check your measurements before you print or submit your application documents.

Background and Lighting Requirements

The Immigration Services Agency specifies a photo with no background, including shadows^[2].

To get good lighting without harsh shadows, stand facing a bright window during daylight hours. Avoid using a direct flash on your camera, as a flash can cast dark shadows on the wall behind you or create bright reflections on your skin.

Good natural light helps the camera capture your true skin tone and facial features clearly. Position yourself carefully so that light falls evenly across your face without creating dark patches on one side.

Rules for Glasses, Expression, and Head Coverings

You may wear glasses in your application photo only if your eyes remain clearly visible and the frames do not block your eyes^[2]. Make sure there is no glare or reflection from lights on the lenses of your glasses^[2].

Head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons^[2]. Even when worn for these permitted reasons, your face from the chin to the forehead and the edges of your face must remain fully visible^[2].

The supplied photo specifications do not state an expression or mouth-position rule^[2]. Follow the agency’s published requirements.

Rules for Children and Age Exceptions

Different rules can apply depending on the age of the person submitting the application form. For permanent residence applications, children under 16 are exempt from submitting a photo under the published application instructions^[1].

For permanent residence applications, children under 16 are exempt from submitting a photo under the published instructions^[1].

Applicants aged 16 and older must submit the required photo^[1]. Follow the agency’s instructions for the photo specifications and submission method^[2].

How to Take Your Photo at Home

Taking your own photo at home is simple if you follow a few basic steps. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from a plain background and ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you.

Keep your camera or smartphone at your exact eye level so the angle is straight and natural. Look directly into the lens, keep your shoulders square, and maintain a neutral expression while someone else snaps the photo.

Take several test shots so you can check the lighting and your head position. Review the photos on your screen to confirm that your chin-to-top head height falls within the allowed range before you pick a final image.

Preparing and Printing Your Photo Sheet

Once you capture a clear image, you need to format it correctly for printing. You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the exact 30 by 40 mm dimensions and place it onto a standard 4 by 6 inch sheet.

Take your prepared 4 by 6 inch file to a local store or kiosk and print it out as an ordinary photo. You can use the tool above to prepare your copy, but the Immigration Services Agency of Japan makes the final decision on whether to accept your printed photo.