AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
AUSTRALIA - NEW ZWALAND - USA - UK - PHILLIPINES - GERMANY - SOUTH KOREA - HONGKONG - VIETNAM - MALAYSIA - ITALY - SRILANKA - CANADA - CHINA - INDIA - JAPAN - NEPAL - BANGLADESH - IRAQ - IRAN - LEBANON - PAKISTAN
๐ What's in this guide
Japan has a unique "top gap" requirement โ 2โ6mm
Most countries only require the head not be cut off at the top. Japan specifically mandates a 2โ6mm gap of clear space between the top of the head and the top photo border. Photos cropped too tightly at the top are rejected โ even if the full head is visible.
Glasses โ MOFA recommends removing them
Japan's MOFA does not formally ban glasses but strongly recommends removal. If worn, lenses must be clear, frames must not cover eyes, and zero glare is permitted. In practice, the safest approach is always to remove glasses entirely.
Miniml applies every Japanese MOFA requirement automatically
Select Japan, upload your photo. We apply the 35ร45mm spec, 32โ36mm head height, 2โ6mm top gap and white background before printing. Expert review included.
Official specifications
The exact MOFA numbers โ verified.
These are the official requirements from Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Every requirement below must be met for your photo to be accepted at the Consulate-General of Japan in Sydney or Melbourne.
| Requirement | Official Specification | Important Notes | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Photo dimensions | 35mm wide ร 45mm high Portrait format โ not square | Same size as Australian passport photos. However, background and head ratio requirements still differ โ do not assume an Australian photo will be accepted directly. | REQUIRED |
Head height (chinโcrown) | 32โ36 mm 70โ80% of photo height | Head must be centred horizontally. Face must look directly forward โ no tilt or angle permitted. Both eyes must be at the same horizontal level. | REQUIRED |
Top gap (crown to top edge) | 2โ6 mm Unique Japanese requirement | This is explicit in MOFA guidelines. Not applicable for subjects with very voluminous hair, where the measurement is taken from the visible top of the hair. Under 2mm or over 6mm is rejected. | JAPAN SPECIFIC |
Background colour | Plain white (preferred) Very light grey may be accepted | No patterns, textures, objects, or shadows on the background. White is strongly preferred and always safe. Light grey may be technically accepted but is not recommended โ white ensures no ambiguity. | REQUIRED |
Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expression. Eyes must be fully open and looking directly at the camera โ not slightly to the side. | REQUIRED |
Glasses | Remove recommended Clear prescription glasses conditionally permitted | MOFA does not formally ban glasses but strongly recommends removal. If worn: clear lenses only, no tinting, no glare, no reflections, frames must not cover the eyes. Safest: remove glasses entirely. | CONDITIONAL |
Head coverings | Not permitted Religious/medical exceptions allowed | Hats, caps, bandanas not allowed. Religious coverings (hijab, kippah) permitted if full face from forehead to chin is clearly visible. Medical headwear with supporting documentation accepted. | NOT ALLOWED |
Photo age | Within 6 months | Must represent current appearance. Significant changes in appearance โ major weight change, facial surgery โ require new photos even within 6 months. | REQUIRED |
Colour | Colour preferred (B&W accepted) Unique โ Japan is one of few countries accepting B&W | Unlike most countries that require colour only, MOFA accepts black and white photos. However, colour photos are preferred and always safe. | JAPAN SPECIFIC |
Digital resolution | 600 dpi min ยท JPEG format 827ร1062 pixels recommended | For digital submissions. Same background, expression and head ratio rules apply. File must be sharp with no blur, pixelation or compression artefacts. | REQUIRED |
Shadows | None permitted Face or background | Uniform, even lighting required. Shadows under the nose, from glasses frames or from being too close to the background wall are all rejection causes. | NOT ALLOWED |
Print quality | Professional glossy or matte No inkjet home printing | MOFA accepts both glossy and matte professional photo paper. Photo must be undamaged โ no marks, folds, creases or fingerprints. No scanning of printed photos. | REQUIRED |
Contact lenses | Clear only โ no coloured lenses | Coloured contact lenses that change natural eye colour are explicitly prohibited. Clear medical contact lenses are acceptable. | COLOURED BANNED |
Photos per application | 1 photo required Recommend ordering 2 in case of damage | Japanese passport applications require only one photo. This differs from Chinese applications (2 photos) and Australian applications (usually 2 photos for paper applications). | JAPAN SPECIFIC |
Detailed requirements
Every MOFA rule, explained clearly.
Japan's passport photo rules come directly from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These are checked at the Consulate-General in Sydney and Melbourne before your application is processed.
Photo Size โ 35 ร 45mm
Japanese passport photos are 35mm wide and 45mm high โ a standard portrait format. This happens to be the same size as Australian passport photos, but do not assume photos are interchangeable. Background and head ratio requirements still differ.
The 35ร45mm size is standard in Japan, unlike the unique sizes required by the US (51ร51mm square) or China (33ร48mm). It matches most European passport sizes.
The 2โ6mm Top Gap โ Japan's Unique Rule
This is the most frequently overlooked Japanese requirement. MOFA mandates that there must be exactly 2โ6mm of clear space between the top of your head (or the top of your hair) and the top border of the photo. Cropped too tight? Rejected. Too much space? Also rejected.
Measure this carefully if having photos taken professionally. Most automated cropping tools miss this rule. Miniml applies it precisely for every Japanese order.
White Background โ Safest Choice
While MOFA guidelines state "plain white or very light grey," white is always the safest option. Some consulates in Australia interpret the guidelines strictly and reject anything with a grey cast. Patterns, textures, objects and shadows are always rejected regardless of colour.
Don't risk light grey โ use pure white for all Japanese passport applications in Australia. Miniml applies pure white automatically.
Neutral Expression โ Eyes Open
Your expression must be completely neutral โ mouth gently closed, no smile, no frown. Eyes must be fully open and looking directly at the camera lens. Both eyes must be at the same level horizontally. Even a very slight smile can cause rejection from Japanese consulates, which apply ICAO biometric standards strictly.
Look at the camera lens, not the preview screen. The lens and screen are in slightly different positions โ looking at the screen means your eyes aren't pointed directly at the lens.
Glasses โ Remove for Safety
MOFA's official position: glasses are not formally banned, but their strong guidance is to remove them if possible. If you must wear glasses, they must have clear (non-tinted) lenses, zero glare or reflections on the lens surface, and frames must not obscure any part of the eyes. Thick frames, any tinting, or any glare is an automatic rejection.
The safest path: remove glasses entirely. Even "compliant" glasses frequently cause problems at Australian-based Japanese consulates due to strict enforcement.
Black & White โ Permitted (Uniquely)
Japan is one of very few countries that officially accepts black and white passport photos. This is explicitly stated in MOFA's guidelines. However, colour photos are preferred and always safe โ black and white photos should only be submitted if there is a specific reason to do so.
Even if submitting in black and white, the background and all other requirements must still be met. Miniml defaults to colour for all Japanese orders.
No Photo Manipulation
Japanese passport photos must not be digitally edited. Any retouching โ skin smoothing, blemish removal, red-eye correction, brightness adjustment, or background replacement โ constitutes manipulation. MOFA uses automated detection. Photos that have been edited will be rejected, and the application may be flagged for review.
Turn off beauty mode, portrait enhancement and Smart HDR on your phone before taking the photo. These are all forms of digital manipulation.
Clothing โ No Uniforms or White Tops
While there is no strict dress code for Japanese passport photos, MOFA explicitly prohibits uniforms and military-style clothing including camouflage patterns. Additionally, wearing white or very light coloured tops creates problems as they blend with the white background, making the shoulder outline difficult to discern.
Wear dark, everyday clothing that contrasts clearly with the white background. No uniforms, no white tops, no large bright logos or graphics.
Coloured Contact Lenses โ Banned
Clear contact lenses are acceptable. However, coloured contact lenses that change your natural eye colour are explicitly prohibited in Japanese passport photos. This is a specific MOFA requirement. Even cosmetic clear lenses that enhance eye appearance are not recommended as they may be flagged during biometric review.
Remove coloured contacts before taking your passport photo. Natural eye colour must be clearly visible.
Side by side comparison
Japanese vs Australian โ
where they differ.
Japanese and Australian photos happen to be the same size (35ร45mm), but several other requirements differ โ particularly the top gap rule, glasses policy, and black-and-white acceptance.
๐ฏ๐ต
Japanese Passport Photo
For Japanese Consulate applications
Photo size35 ร 45 mm
Head height32โ36 mm
Top gap2โ6 mm required โ ๏ธ
BackgroundWhite (preferred)
GlassesRemove recommended
Black & whiteโ Accepted (unique)
Photos required1 photo
Both ears requiredNot specified
๐ฆ๐บ
Australian Passport Photo
For Australian Passport Office
Photo sizeSame โ 35โ40 ร 45โ50mm
Head heightSame โ 32โ36mm
Top gapNot specified Different
BackgroundWhite OR light grey Different
GlassesBanned entirely Stricter
Black & whiteโ Not accepted Different
Photos requiredUsually 2 Different
Both ears requiredNot specified
Good news โ 35ร45mm is the same for both countries
Unlike Chinese photos (33ร48mm) which are completely different, Japanese and Australian photos share the same 35ร45mm size. However, the background preference (white vs white/grey), the unique 2โ6mm top gap rule, glasses policy and the single-photo submission mean they are not directly interchangeable. Always order specifically for Japanese specifications.
Quick reference
Do's & Don'ts for Japanese photos.
โ
You MUST do this
โPhoto size exactly 35mm wide ร 45mm high
โHead height 32โ36mm (chin to crown)
โLeave 2โ6mm gap between top of head and top edge
โPlain white background โ no patterns or shadows
โNeutral expression, mouth closed, eyes fully open
โLook directly at the camera lens (not the screen)
โUniform lighting, no shadows on face or background
โColour photo (preferred) or black & white
โTaken within the last 6 months
โProfessional quality print on matte or glossy paper
โWear dark clothing contrasting with white background
โYou must NEVER do this
โCrop head too tightly โ leave the 2โ6mm top gap
โSmile or open your mouth
โWear sunglasses or tinted/thick-framed glasses
โWear coloured contact lenses
โWear a hat, cap or head covering (unless religious)
โHave shadows on your face or the background
โEdit, filter or retouch the photo in any way
โWear a uniform or military-style clothing
โWear white or very light clothing (blends with background)
โPrint on inkjet paper or standard home printer
โTilt your head or look to the side
Avoid rejection
Why Japanese passport photos
get rejected in Australia.
These are the most common rejection causes at the Consulate-General of Japan in Sydney and Melbourne, verified from applicant reports.
1
Missing top gap โ head cropped too tight at the top
This is the #1 unique-to-Japan rejection cause. Standard photo cropping tools fill the frame with the head, leaving little or no space at the top. Japanese requirements mandate 2โ6mm of clear space above the head. Photos taken elsewhere and not specifically adjusted for Japanese specs almost always fail this rule.
2โ6mm top gap required
2
Glasses โ glare, tinting, or frames covering eyes
Even nominally "clear" glasses frequently cause rejection due to subtle glare from studio or camera flash. Thick frames are rejected outright. Any tinting of any kind is an automatic rejection. The safest and most common advice from the consulate is to remove glasses entirely.
Remove glasses entirely
3
Shadows on face or background
Single-source lighting, flash photography, or standing too close to the wall behind you all create shadows. Japanese consulates are strict about uniform, shadow-free lighting. Even subtle chin shadows from overhead lighting are flagged during the biometric compliance check.
Two-source lighting, 1m from wall
4
Grey or off-white background
Although MOFA technically permits "very light grey," the Sydney and Melbourne consulates generally apply a white-only interpretation in practice. Any background with a visible grey cast, warm tint, or texture will be rejected. Photos taken at Australian studios using their standard background may not pass.
Pure white background only
5
Head height outside 32โ36mm range
If the face is too small (head fills less than 70% of the photo) or too large (head over 80% of the photo), the photo fails biometric compliance. The face must be centred horizontally and vertically within the frame, with the 32โ36mm head height measured from chin to crown.
32โ36mm chin to crown
6
Coloured contact lenses
Coloured lenses that change natural eye colour are explicitly prohibited by MOFA. This includes cosmetically tinted lenses intended to enhance or change eye appearance. Biometric systems compare eye colour against existing records, and unnatural eye colours cause flags in the verification system.
Remove coloured contacts
7
Digital editing or beauty filter applied
Skin smoothing, blemish removal, brightness adjustment, or background alteration constitute digital manipulation. MOFA's automated review system flags images showing signs of manipulation. Many modern smartphones apply these adjustments automatically unless explicitly disabled before shooting.
Turn off all phone beauty modes
8
Photo more than 6 months old
Passport photos must have been taken within 6 months of the application date and must reflect your current appearance. Submitting the same photos used for your previous passport application is a common rejection cause โ new applications require new, fresh photos.
Take fresh photos within 6 months
Step by step
How to take your Japanese
passport photo at home.
You can take the photo yourself at home. Follow these steps carefully โ the top gap rule and head height requirements mean precision matters more than usual.
1
Set up a pure white background
Use a white wall, hang a white sheet, or tape white poster board behind you. The background must be pure white โ not cream, not grey, not warm-tinted from incandescent lighting. Check it appears pure white in your phone camera's preview before shooting.
Pro tip: Shoot near a large north-facing window during daylight. Natural daylight gives the truest white background colour. Avoid warm incandescent bulbs โ they add a yellow cast that makes white walls appear cream.
2
Stand exactly 1 metre from the wall
This is the most important lighting setup step. Standing too close to the background creates shadows behind your head โ an automatic rejection. At 1 metre distance, your body doesn't cast shadows on the wall. Use two light sources if possible โ one each side of your face at equal distance and 45ยฐ angles.
Pro tip: Test before shooting โ take a photo with just a plain wall and no person, and check the background looks perfectly white and shadow-free across the entire frame. Then add yourself in the same position.
3
Remove glasses and coloured contact lenses
The safest approach for a Japanese passport photo is to remove all glasses. While MOFA technically permits clear non-reflective glasses, the Australian-based Japanese consulates enforce this strictly and frequently reject glasses regardless. Coloured contact lenses must always be removed โ they are explicitly prohibited.
Note: If you wear prescription glasses full-time and must keep them for the photo, ensure lenses are completely clear, use natural light to eliminate glare, and shoot from slightly to the side of any window to prevent reflections.
4
Position camera at exactly eye level
Camera or phone must be at exactly eye level โ not above (causes downward chin tilt) or below (causes upward chin tilt). Your face must fill the frame so that after cropping to 35ร45mm, the head height is 32โ36mm. Have someone else hold the camera for the most natural and accurate framing.
Top gap reminder: Leave more space at the top of your head than you think you need โ at least 2โ6mm of the photo frame should be clear space above your hair. Instruct whoever is taking the photo to frame you with clear space above the top of your head.
5
Disable all phone camera enhancements
Before taking the photo, turn off: Portrait Mode, Beauty/Skin Smooth mode, Smart HDR, Deep Fusion, Cinematic Mode, and any automatic face enhancement. These are all forms of digital manipulation that MOFA's automated review system is designed to detect. Use plain Photo mode with all settings at default.
iPhone: Settings โ Camera โ Photographic Styles โ set to None. Turn off Smart HDR. Samsung: Camera โ Settings โ turn off Scene Optimiser and shooting methods that apply AI processing.
6
Take the photo โ check top gap, expression, shadows
Look at the camera lens (not the screen). Neutral expression โ relax your face completely, mouth gently closed, eyes fully open. Head perfectly straight, no tilt in any direction. Take 20+ photos. Review on a large screen and check: clear top gap above head โ, no shadows โ, white background โ, straight head โ.
Japanese passport checklist: Top gap visible above head โ | Pure white background โ | No shadows โ | No glasses or coloured lenses โ | Neutral expression โ | Head straight โ | Taken within 6 months โ
7
Upload to Miniml โ we apply the exact spec
Upload to Miniml and select Japan. We automatically apply the 35ร45mm spec, measure and adjust to 32โ36mm head height, ensure the 2โ6mm top gap is precisely correct, and use pure white background. Every photo is reviewed by a human expert before printing. Digital file same day, prints delivered in 1โ2 days.
Why Miniml for Japanese photos: The 2โ6mm top gap rule is the most commonly missed requirement. Miniml applies it precisely to every Japanese order โ No guessing, no measuring โ just compliant, consulate-accepted photos.
Consulate information
Japanese Consulates in Australia.
Japanese passport renewals must be submitted in person by appointment at the Consulate-General. All require 35ร45mm photos with white background and the 2โ6mm top gap.
๐ Sydney
Consulate-General of Japan
Address
Level 34, 360 Pacific Highway, St Leonards NSW 2065
Passport services
By appointment only โ book online at consulate website
Opening hours
MonโFri ยท 9:00โ12:30, 13:30โ17:00 (closed public holidays)
Website
sydney.au.emb-japan.go.jp (appointment booking available)
Jurisdiction
NSW, QLD, ACT, NT, SA, WA, TAS (passport)
๐๏ธ Melbourne
Consulate-General of Japan
Address
Level 2, 360 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Passport services
By appointment only โ book online at consulate website
Opening hours
MonโFri ยท 9:00โ12:30, 13:30โ17:00 (closed public holidays)
Website
melbourne.au.emb-japan.go.jp (appointment booking available)
Jurisdiction
VIC (passport services)
๐ Brisbane
Consulate-General of Japan
Address
Level 17, 12 Creek Street, Brisbane QLD 4000
Passport services
By appointment only โ contact consulate for current availability
Important
Some QLD applicants may be directed to Sydney โ verify jurisdiction before travel
Miniml tip
Order from Miniml before your appointment โ compliant 35ร45mm Japanese-spec prints delivered to any Brisbane address in 1โ2 days
Jurisdiction
QLD (confirm current services with consulate)
Japanese consulates do not take photos on-site
Unlike some other countries' consulates, Japanese consulates in Australia do not offer photo-taking services at the counter. You must arrive with your compliant 35ร45mm photo already prepared and printed. Order from Miniml before your appointment so you arrive ready โ with the 2โ6mm top gap, 32โ36mm head height, and pure white background already verified by our experts.
๐ฏ๐ต
35ร45mm + 2โ6mm Top Gap
All Japanese MOFA requirements pre-loaded โ including the unique top gap rule.
๐ค
Human Expert Review
Every photo checked by a trained expert against Japanese consulate requirements.
โ
Consulate Acceptance Guarantee
Free reprint if your photo is rejected at the Sydney or Melbourne consulate.
๐ฆ
Delivered Australia-Wide
Free tracked delivery to any Australian address. Digital emailed same day.
Frequently asked questions
Japanese passport photo questions answered.
What is the exact size of a Japanese passport photo?
+
A Japanese passport photo must be exactly 35mm wide ร 45mm high. Head height (chin to crown) must be 32โ36mm. There must also be a 2โ6mm gap of clear space between the top of the head and the top border of the photo โ this is a unique Japanese requirement not found in most other countries' specifications.
What is the "top gap" rule for Japanese passport photos?
+
Japanese MOFA guidelines specifically require 2โ6mm of clear space between the top of the applicant's head (or hair) and the top border of the photo. This is one of the most unique Japanese requirements โ most countries only require that the head not be cropped. Photos cropped too tightly at the top (less than 2mm gap) will be rejected. Miniml applies this precisely for every Japanese order.
Can I wear glasses in my Japanese passport photo?
+
Japan's MOFA does not formally ban glasses, but strongly recommends removing them. If worn: lenses must be completely clear and non-tinted, frames must not cover any part of the eyes, and there must be zero glare or reflections on the lenses. In practice, the Sydney and Melbourne consulates frequently reject photos with glasses regardless of these conditions. The safest approach is to remove glasses entirely. Sunglasses, tinted lenses and heavy frames are always rejected without exception.
Is a Japanese passport photo the same size as an Australian one?
+
Yes, the size is the same โ both are 35ร45mm. However, they are not interchangeable because other requirements differ: Australian photos accept light grey backgrounds (Japanese prefer white only), Australia bans all glasses (Japan conditionally permits clear glasses), Japan requires a 2โ6mm top gap (Australia does not specify), and Japan accepts black and white (Australia does not). Always order specifically for Japanese specifications.
How do I renew my Japanese passport in Australia?
+
Japanese passport renewals must be submitted in person by appointment at the Consulate-General of Japan in Sydney (St Leonards), Melbourne (Collins Street) or Brisbane (Creek Street). You'll need your current passport, valid residency proof, a completed Japanese application form, and one compliant 35ร45mm passport photo. Processing typically takes 3โ6 weeks. Book your appointment through the consulate website well in advance as appointment slots fill quickly.
How many passport photos do I need for a Japanese passport?
+
Japanese passport applications require one (1) photograph. This differs from Chinese applications (which require 2 photos) and Australian paper applications (which usually require 2 photos). It is recommended to order 2 prints from Miniml in case the first is accidentally damaged or rejected โ the Print plan includes 4 professional prints.
Can I submit a black and white photo for my Japanese passport?
+
Yes โ Japan is one of very few countries that accepts black and white passport photos. This is explicitly stated in MOFA's guidelines. However, colour photos are preferred and always safe. If you do submit a black and white photo, all other requirements still apply โ white background, correct head height, 2โ6mm top gap, neutral expression, and professional printing. Miniml defaults to colour for all Japanese orders unless specifically requested otherwise.
Where can I get Japanese passport photos in Sydney or Melbourne?
+
Miniml delivers expert-reviewed, MOFA-compliant Japanese passport photos to any Sydney or Melbourne address. Digital file same day from $8, printed photos in 1โ2 business days from $10. The Japanese-specific 35ร45mm spec, 2โ6mm top gap rule, and 32โ36mm head height are all applied automatically. Many other photo services โ including AusPost โ don't apply Japan's unique top gap requirement, so their photos frequently fail at the consulate.
Can I use my Japanese passport photo for a Japan visa?
+
Yes โ the photo requirements for Japan visa applications are similar to passport requirements: 35ร45mm (passport) or 45ร45mm (visa โ a square format for some visa types), white background, neutral expression. For a Japan visa application in Australia, confirm with the Japanese consulate or your visa application agent (such as H.I.S. Sydney) which exact size is required for your visa type. Miniml supports both Japan passport (35ร45mm) and Japan visa (45ร45mm) photos.
My Japanese passport photo was rejected โ what now?
+
Get the specific reason from the consulate โ they must tell you why the photo was rejected. Most common causes in Australia are: missing top gap, glasses glare, shadow on background, or subtle grey tint on background. If you ordered through Miniml and our photo was rejected for a compliance reason, we will reprint and redeliver at zero cost under our 100% acceptance guarantee. Email us the rejection notice and we'll process a free reprint immediately.
Understanding Japanese Passport Photo Requirements in Australia
For the estimated 80,000โ100,000 Japanese nationals living in Australia, passport renewal requires navigating a set of photo requirements set by Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). The requirements are based on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Document 9303 biometric specifications, but with several unique Japanese additions that frequently catch Australian-based applicants off guard.
The most frequently misunderstood requirement is the top gap rule. Unlike Australian, Chinese or US passport photos โ which simply require the full head to be visible without being cropped โ Japanese MOFA guidelines specifically mandate a clear space of 2โ6mm between the top of the applicant's head and the top border of the photograph. Standard photo cropping software, including that used at AusPost and most commercial photo studios, fills the frame to ICAO standard proportions without applying this specific gap. The result is that photos taken elsewhere for "passport photos" frequently fail the Japanese consulate's compliance check even if everything else is correct.
The glasses situation is another area of frequent confusion. Australia bans all glasses outright, while Japan's MOFA takes a more nuanced position โ formally permitting clear non-reflective prescription glasses, but strongly recommending their removal. In practice, the Consulate-General of Japan in Sydney and Melbourne apply these guidelines strictly, and photos with any visible glare, tinting, or frame coverage of the eyes are routinely rejected. Many applicants who believe their glasses comply find that the consulate's evaluation differs from their own assessment. The practical advice from applicants who have successfully renewed their Japanese passports in Australia consistently aligns: remove glasses.
Japan is one of only a handful of countries worldwide that formally accepts black and white passport photos. This is explicitly stated in MOFA's official guidelines, reflecting a historical acceptance that remains in the rules despite the near-universal shift to colour photography. Colour photos are preferred, and Miniml defaults to colour for all Japanese orders, but knowing black and white is technically accepted can be useful in specific circumstances.
Miniml's Japanese passport photo service applies every MOFA requirement automatically when you select Japan โ including the 35ร45mm dimensions, 32โ36mm head height, 2โ6mm top gap, pure white background, and professional dye-sublimation printing. Every photo is reviewed by a trained human expert before dispatch. Professional prints are delivered to any Australian address in 1โ2 business days, and digital files are emailed the same day. For Japanese expats in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and regional Australia, Miniml is the most reliable way to get consulate-compliant photos without the uncertainty of standard photo services.
๐ฏ๐ต Ready to order your Japanese passport photo?
Exact MOFA spec.
Exact MOFA spec.
2โ6mm top gap. Delivered.
Upload your photo from home. Our experts apply every Japanese consulate requirement โ including the unique top gap rule โ and deliver professional prints to your Australian door from $10.