Japanese Special Permanent Resident Certificate Photo Requirements
You need a precise photo size and head measurement for your Japanese Special Permanent Resident Certificate application. Follow these official rules to prepare your image correctly.
Official Size and Measurements
The official photo size for your Special Permanent Resident Certificate is 30×40 mm, which equals 1.18×1.57 inches[1][2].
The photo specifications give a face height of 25 ± 3 mm, measuring from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head, including your hair[1].
You must also leave a top margin of 2 to 8 mm above the top of your head in the frame so your head is positioned correctly[1][2].
Background and Lighting
The photo must have no background, including shadows[1].
Stand facing a bright window to get even lighting across your face without creating harsh shadows behind you. Natural light from the front works best to keep your features clear.
Keep your shoulders relaxed and look straight into the camera lens with a neutral expression. Avoid tilting your head up, down, or to the side.
Glasses, Headwear, and Expressions
Glasses must not obscure identification; avoid frames or glare that hide the eyes[1]. If your glasses reflect light or thick frames block your eyes, take them off.
Headwear is permitted strictly for religious or medical reasons[1][2]. Everyday hats, caps, or hairbands are not allowed.
Make sure your eyes are clearly visible and your face is fully uncovered from the chin to the crown of your head.
Rules for Children and Age Exceptions
Certificates show a photo for people aged one and older starting from June 14, 2026[1][2].
Children under one year old do not have a photo on their certificate[1][2].
Before June 14, 2026, cards for people under 16 did not display a photo[1][2]. This rule change means younger residents now need compliant photos taken according to the new schedule.
Printed and Digital Submission
You can submit either a printed photo for counter applications or a digital image for applicable online procedures[1][2].
The authority does not set a specific file size limit for digital uploads[1][2], but your image file should be clear and high quality.
You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the exact dimensions needed for your application type, whether you apply online or in person.
How to Take Your Photo at Home
Place your camera or smartphone on a steady surface or tripod at eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face. Avoid holding the phone in your hand.
Ask someone else to take the picture instead of taking a selfie to avoid awkward camera angles and arm positions.
Stand against a plain, light-colored wall if possible, making sure there are no shadows cast on the wall behind you.
You can use the tool above to adjust your crop so your chin and the top of your head match the required measurements.
Printing at a Kiosk
If you choose a printed photo for your counter application, place your cropped image onto an ordinary 4x6-inch photo sheet as a template.
Take the file on a USB drive or your phone to a local store printing kiosk that offers standard photo printing services.
Print the 4x6-inch sheet at standard photo settings without any cropping filters applied by the kiosk machine.
Cut out the 30x40 mm photo carefully using a pair of sharp scissors and a ruler to keep the edges straight.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for a Special Permanent Resident Certificate?
What are the head height requirements?
Do babies and children need a photo?
How do I submit the photo?
Can I use a selfie for this application?
It is best to have someone else take the picture or use a tripod at eye level rather than holding the camera yourself, to avoid incorrect angles and distortion.