Photo Size & Photo Requirements for Japan Student Visa

2024/12/08

Getting the right passport photo for your Japanese student visa application is a critical first step in your journey to study in Japan. Applicants get confused over the requirements and dimensions needed for the visa photos.

In this article, learn everything you need to know about Japanese student visa photo requirements-from the exact size specification to the quality standards-to ensure that your application process is smooth, with no delays or rejections concerning the photos.

Japan Student Visa Photo Size

When you submit your application for a student visa to study in Japan, you will have to attach a passport-style photograph. The size required for a photo to attach to the application form for a student visa to Japan is 45mm × 45mm (2 inches × 2 inches).

The photo should be in square shape, exactly to these dimensions, neither more nor less than the required size. There mustn’t be any frame around your photo. In simple words, the full area of 45mm x 45mm needs to be covered by the photo and background.

The size of the photo is very important to be submitted because it shows the clear visibility of your face and immigration officers will easily identify you. A photo which is too small will not show your features clearly, and a photo which is too big will not fit on your visa documents properly.

Photo Requirements for Japan Student Visa

In addition to the size specifications, your Japan student visa photo should also satisfy several other requirements.

Background:

• The background of the photo should be plain white
• Photos with dark, patterned, or any other color background will not be accepted

A plain white background ensures that the focus is on your face and features, without any distractions. It also helps maintain consistency across all visa applicant photos.

Appearance:

• Your photo must be a clear, centered image, with your full face visible – with an open eye
• You should have a neutral expression
• Must show you without any head coverings, hats or dark glasses
• Normal eyeglasses are fine if they don’t cover part of your eyes.
  Headphones, wireless hands-free devices, or similar items are not allowed.

Such photonegative and positive facial characteristics increase the likelihood of your photograph to be a correct representation in relation to how you present yourself today.

A neutral expression with both eyes open allows officials an easier chance to identify you. Avoiding hats, glasses, or other obstructions may prevent your photo from getting rejected.

Photo quality

The photo shall be coloured

• It should be on photo paper of good quality and not on ordinary copy paper.
• The image should be clear, distinct, and in focus.
  There are to be no creases, stamps, or blemishes on the photo.

Visa applications require high-quality, colored photos. The photo should be sharp and clear, with all your facial features discernible. Printing on high-quality paper makes sure it will not deteriorate or be damaged in any manner while going through the process.

Recency:

• Photo should be taken within the last 6 months
• Should be a true representation of your current appearance

Visa officials will need to be able to see what you look like now, and an old photo can raise identification problems. If your look has changed a great deal since the photo was taken, you may have to get a new one.

Digital photos:

• If you are submitting a digital photo, it should be at least 600 dpi
• The digital photo should be in JPEG format, with a high quality setting

These requirements for the digital photo ensure that your photo will be of high enough quality to print and use on official visa documents.

Here is the rest of the article, with the added sections:

Visa Photo Tips and Considerations

When getting your photo taken for your Japan student visa application, keep these tips in mind.

Clothing and Appearance

Dress in normal, appropriate attire and style your hair neatly so your face is fully visible. Apply makeup as you typically would, but avoid heavy or excessive amounts that could alter your appearance.

Posing for the Photo

Sit up straight, face the camera directly, and maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed and eyes open.

Double Check the Photo

After the photo is taken, review it to confirm it meets all of the requirements and accurately reflects your current appearance.

Examples of Photos That May Be Rejected

To help you understand what to avoid when submitting your Japan student visa photo, here are some examples of photos that may be rejected:

1. Non-white or patterned background
2. Black and white photos
3. Wearing hats, sunglasses, or face-obscuring accessories
4. Non-neutral facial expressions-smiling, frowning, etc.
5. Hair covering face or eyes
6. Blurry, out-of-focus, or low-quality images
7. Photos with creases, stamps, or blemishes
8. Incorrect size-not 45mm x 45mm
9. Outdated photos (more than 6 months old)
10. Low-resolution or wrong file format for digital photos

Avoiding these common mistakes and following the photo guidelines can increase the chances of your Japan student visa application being accepted without photo-related delays or issues.

Therefore, a high-quality, up-to-date photograph that depicts all the sizes and specifications mentioned herein is necessary for a seamless student visa application process in Japan. Carefully follow these requirements to ensure your photo will be approved.