Japan Residence card (zairyu card) photo requirements
Residence card applications need a 4 cm high x 3 cm wide photo taken within the last 6 months, facing the camera, hat off, with a plain background and no shadows (Immigration Services Agency). Digital submissions use the same 3:4 portrait shape as a .jpg or .jpeg file.
| Photo size | 30 x 40 mm (1.18 x 1.57 in) |
|---|---|
| Digital size | 354 x 472 px |
| Resolution | 300 DPI |
| Head height (chin to crown) | Not published — check official source |
| Eye line from bottom | Not specified |
| Background | plain, no pattern or shadow |
| File format | JPEG |
| File size | No limit published |
| Background editing | Not offered; we crop and resize only |
| Last verified | 2026-09-29 |
Official source: www.moj.go.jp
How to take your Japan Residence card (zairyu card) photo
- Stand about 50 cm in front of a plain, no pattern or shadow wall, with nothing else in the background.
- Use soft, even light from the front (a window in daylight works well). Avoid shadows on your face and behind you.
- Have someone else take the photo from 1–2 m away with the camera at eye level. Avoid arm-length selfies.
- Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression, mouth closed and both eyes open.
- Remove glasses, hats and headphones unless the rules allow them (religious or medical exceptions vary).
- Leave space above your head and below your shoulders so the tool can crop to the exact size.
FAQ
- What size is a Japan Residence card (zairyu card) photo in pixels?
- 354 x 472 px, JPEG, on a plain, no pattern or shadow background. The printed size is 30x40 mm (1.18x1.57 in).
- Can I take my Japan residence permit photo with a phone?
- Usually yes, if the photo is sharp, evenly lit and taken from about 1–2 m away with the camera at eye level. Ask someone else to take it rather than using a selfie at arm's length, which distorts facial proportions.
- Can I wear glasses?
- Many authorities no longer accept glasses in photos, and others require no glare or tinted lenses. Check the official source linked on this page.
- What background should I use?
- The published requirement is: plain light (white or light blue). Stand about 50 cm in front of a plain wall to avoid shadows.
- Will my photo be accepted?
- We format your photo to the published spec, but acceptance is decided by the issuing authority.
Official source
Requirements are published by the issuing authority at https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/status/photo_info_00002.html. Last verified: 2026-09-29.
Disclaimer: We format your photo to the published spec; acceptance is decided by the issuing authority.