Japan Visa Photo Requirements for Filipino Applicants
Applying for a Japan visa from the Philippines? The photo size catches almost everyone off guard. It's not the same as your Philippine passport photo, and it's not even the same as a Japanese passport photo. Here's exactly what you need.
The Key Difference
Japan visa photos are 45×45mm square — completely different from your Philippine passport (35×45mm rectangular) AND Japanese passports (also 35×45mm). White background, no glasses, neutral expression.
| Size | 45×45mm (square) |
| Background | White or plain light |
| Glasses | Not permitted |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Recency | Within last 6 months |
| Quantity | 2 photos (most agencies require 2) |
The Triple Confusion: Why So Many Filipinos Get This Wrong
Here’s the problem. Your Philippine passport photo is 35×45mm — a standard rectangular format used across Southeast Asia. If you’ve traveled to other countries, you’ve probably used this size or something close to it.
Japanese passport photos are also 35×45mm. So you might assume Japan visa photos are the same size.
They’re not. Japan visa photos are 45×45mm — a square. The Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs sets this requirement, and it catches applicants off guard because nothing else in their experience uses this size.
Don't assume 35×45mm works
The 45×45mm square requirement is strictly enforced. Accredited travel agencies in the Philippines will reject your application if you submit 35×45mm photos. You’ll need to retake them, delaying your application.
Full Photo Specifications
Beyond the size, Japan visa photos must meet these standards:
- White or light plain background — no patterns, no shadows
- No glasses — prescription or otherwise
- Neutral expression — mouth closed, no smiling
- Face centered in the frame, looking directly at the camera
- No head coverings unless for religious reasons
- Sharp focus, proper exposure — no blurry or underexposed photos
- Taken within the last 6 months — must reflect your current appearance
The specifications come from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
Where to Apply for a Japan Visa
Unlike many countries, Filipino tourist visa applicants cannot apply directly at the Japanese embassy. You must go through an accredited travel agency.
Tourist visas (temporary visitor)
Apply through one of the accredited agencies listed by the Embassy of Japan in Manila. The agency submits your documents to the embassy on your behalf. Processing typically takes 5-7 working days.
Work, student, and other visa categories
Apply directly at:
- Embassy of Japan in Manila — 2517 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City
- Consulate of Japan in Cebu — 8th Floor, 2Quad Building, Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business Park
- Consulate of Japan in Davao — 4th Floor, B.I. Zone Building, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada
Agency tip
When submitting through an accredited agency, ask them upfront about photo requirements. Some agencies are strict about the 45×45mm size while others are less familiar with it — don’t rely on the agency to check your photo size for you.
Common Mistakes Filipino Applicants Make
These are the specific errors we see from Philippine-based applicants:
- Submitting 35×45mm photos — The most common mistake. You’re used to this size for your Philippine passport, and most local studios default to it. Japan visa requires 45×45mm.
- Wearing glasses — Philippine passport photos allow glasses; Japan visa photos do not. Remove them before shooting.
- Asking for “Japanese photo size” at a studio — The studio may give you 35×45mm (Japanese passport size) instead of 45×45mm (Japan visa size). Specify “45 by 45 millimeters, square” explicitly.
- Using an old photo — The photo must be taken within the last 6 months. If you’ve changed your hairstyle, gained or lost weight, or changed your appearance, retake the photo.
- Shadows on background — Stand at least 1 meter away from the wall to avoid casting a shadow. Natural light from a window helps.
Where to Get Your Japan Visa Photo
Local photo studios
Most photo studios in Metro Manila, Cebu, and other major cities can take passport-style photos. However, 45×45mm is not a standard size in the Philippines. You need to explicitly request it.
Tell the studio: “I need a 45 by 45 millimeter square photo for a Japan visa. Not 35 by 45.”
Expect to pay ₱100-300 depending on location. Studios near embassies or travel agency offices tend to charge more.
Take it yourself
A smartphone camera, a white wall, and good lighting is all you need. Stand facing a window for even lighting, keep the background clean, and have someone take the photo from chest level.
| Method | Price | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online tool + self print | ~₱56 ($1) | 3 minutes |
| Photo studio | ₱100-300 | 15-30 min |
| Studio near travel agency | ₱200-350 | 15-30 min |
Printing Your Photo
After creating your photo with the correct 45×45mm dimensions, you can print it at any photo printing shop. Bring the file on your phone or USB drive and ask for 4R or 4×6 inch glossy paper. The printable sheet will have multiple copies arranged on one page.
Timeline reminder
Japan tourist visa processing through accredited agencies takes 5-7 working days. During peak travel season (cherry blossom season in March-April, autumn in October-November), it can take longer. Get your photos ready before you start the application — don’t let a wrong-sized photo cost you extra days.
Sources: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan — Visa Information, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines
Frequently Asked Questions
What size photo do I need for a Japan visa from the Philippines?
Japan visa photos must be 45×45mm (4.5cm × 4.5cm) — a square format. This is different from both the Philippine passport (35×45mm) and the Japanese passport (35×45mm). The square size is the most common reason for rejection.
Can I use my Philippine passport photo for a Japan visa?
No. Your Philippine passport photo is 35×45mm (rectangular). Japan visa requires 45×45mm (square). Photo studios and travel agencies will reject photos in the wrong size.
Can I wear glasses in my Japan visa photo?
No. Glasses are not permitted in Japan visa photos. Remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, before taking your photo.
Where do I apply for a Japan visa in the Philippines?
For tourist visas, you must apply through an accredited travel agency — not directly at the embassy. The Embassy of Japan in Manila and consulates in Cebu and Davao handle work visas, student visas, and other categories directly.
How much does a Japan visa photo cost in the Philippines?
Local photo studios charge ₱100-300, but most default to 35×45mm (passport size) and may not have the 45×45mm Japan visa template. Our tool costs ~₱56 ($1) and guarantees the correct 45×45mm size.
What background color is required for a Japan visa photo?
White or plain light background. Avoid patterned backgrounds, shadows, or off-white walls. A clean white wall or white backdrop works best.
Is Japan visa photo the same size as Japanese passport photo?
No — this is a common source of confusion. Japanese passport photos are 35×45mm (rectangular), while Japan visa photos are 45×45mm (square). Even Japanese citizens use a different size for their passport versus visa applications to other countries.
Create Your Japan Visa Photo
Take a photo with your phone, upload it, and get the exact 45×45mm Japan visa format in under 3 minutes. No guessing, no wrong sizes.
Create Japan Visa Photo$1 (~₱56) · 45×45mm guaranteed · Print at any local shop