🇯🇵 Japan Transit Visa photo requirements
The exact specification for this route — size, head height, background and the details that get photographs bounced at the counter.
Check my photo freeThe specification
Photo size
45 x 45 mm
Head height
27 mm head height
Background
Plain white
- Japan uses a square format — a 35x45 photo will be rejected
- Taken within the last 6 months
Last reviewed 12/08/2026 · Source: Japan MOFA. Confirm against the official Japan guidance before printing.
Why visa photos get rejected
- Background is off-white, textured or shadowed instead of the flat tone required.
- Head is too large or too small in the frame — the single most common mechanical failure.
- Smiling, open mouth, or eyes partially closed.
- Glare on glasses, tinted lenses, or frames crossing the eyes.
- Digital retouching, beauty filters or a photo cropped out of a group picture.
- Low resolution or heavy JPEG compression once uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo is needed for a Japan Transit Visa?
45 x 45 mm. Head height must be 27 mm head height, taken against a Plain white background.
Can I wear glasses in a Japan Transit Visa photo?
Assume no. Almost every authority now rejects glasses because of glare and frame obstruction. If you must wear them for medical reasons, carry the supporting letter.
How recent must the photo be?
Within the last six months, and it must reflect your current appearance — beard, hair length and glasses status included.
More for Japan — Transit Visa
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