Visa · Japan

Japan Visa Photo

Japan's MOFA standard visa photo is 4.5x4.5cm (45x45mm), white background, taken within 6 months, neutral expression, no hat, both ears visible. Some consulates accept 3.5x4.5cm or 2x2 inch — check where you apply.

Photo difficulty6/10

Photo specs

Print size	45 × 45 mm (4.5 × 4.5 cm) — chuẩn MOFA
Background	White (#FFFFFF)
Head size	Head about 32–36 mm (chin to top of head)
Quantity	Usually 1–2 photos depending on the mission (affixed to the form)
Recency	Taken within the last 6 months

45 × 45 mm (4.5 × 4.5 cm) — chuẩn MOFA · Head about 32–36 mm (chin to top of head)

Detailed rules

HatsFront view, no hat

Smiling / showing teethMouth closed, neutral expression

Selfie / filtersNo selfies, no social-media filters

GlassesBetter to remove glasses; if worn, eyes must be clear with no glare

Both ears visibleBoth ears preferably visible, taken straight-on

Common rejection reasons

Using 3.5x4.5cm when the mission requires 4.5x4.5cm (or vice versa)
Slight smile / showing teeth causing rejection
Off-white or shadowed background instead of pure white

Photo difficulty

Size varies by consulate, easy to submit the wrong one
Strict pure-white background and neutral expression
Specific ban on smiling/showing teeth

Frequently asked questions

Is a Japan visa photo 4.5x4.5cm or 3.5x4.5cm?

The MOFA standard is 4.5x4.5cm, but many consulates/VFS accept 3.5x4.5cm or 2x2 inch. Check with your submission point first.

Can I smile in a Japan visa photo?

No. Japan is strict about expression: mouth closed, no smile (including a closed-mouth smile).

Official sources

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) — VISA — Verified on 04/07/2026
Consulate-General of Japan in Chicago — Visa photo standard (2x2 inch / 2x1.4 inch) — Verified on 04/07/2026

Updated 04/07/2026

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