Japan Residence Card
Japan Residence Card Photo Requirements – Zairyu Card (在留カード)
Check your Japan Residence Card (Zairyu Card) photo against official 35×45mm requirements. White background, taken within 3 months, neutral expression. Free AI check.
Last updated Apr 26, 2026
Verified against the official source · May 11, 2026Japan Residence Card (Zairyu Card) Photo Requirements
The Japan Residence Card (在留カード, Zairyu Card) is issued by the Ministry of Justice to mid- to long-term foreign residents. Photos submitted with renewal or status-change applications must meet strict biometric standards.
- Size: 35×45mm (413×531px at 300 DPI).
- Background: plain white or very light background, no patterns.
- Head height: 60–80% of the total image height.
- Taken within the past three months.
- Expression: neutral, mouth closed, eyes open.
- No glasses, no tinted lenses, no hats.
- Full face must be visible — no hair covering the forehead or eyes.
Where to Submit Residence Card Photos
Residence Card photos are submitted in person at the Regional Immigration Bureau or via the online application system (ぴったりサービス / Immigration Services Agency portal).
- In-person: bring two printed 35×45mm photos.
- Online: upload a compliant JPEG during the status-change or renewal form.
- Working Holiday or new visa applications: attach the same format.
Why Zairyu Card Photos Are Rejected
The Immigration Services Agency uses biometric scanners. The most common rejection reasons are photo age (older than three months), off-white background, and glasses.
- Photo taken more than three months ago.
- Background has shadows, texture, or is cream/yellow rather than white.
- Glasses present — clear lenses and rimless glasses are also not permitted.
- Hair covers part of the forehead or eyebrows.
Photo Examples
Pass example
Correct photo
Common rejection risk
Incorrect photo
Frequently Asked Questions
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