How to Get Your Japan eVisa Passport Photo Accepted

April 20, 2025

Applying for a Japan eVisa is an exciting step, but many applicants face setbacks when their passport photo is rejected by the online system. To help you avoid these frustrations, we've compiled a comprehensive guide based on official requirements and expert recommendations from iShotAPhoto.com.

Why Are Japan eVisa Passport Photos Rejected?

The Japan eVisa system uses automated checks to ensure every uploaded passport photo meets strict standards. Common reasons for rejection include:

  • Incorrect photo dimensions or aspect ratio
  • Poor lighting, glare, or reflections
  • The face is not centered or is too small/large in the frame
  • The background is not plain white or off-white
  • The Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) at the bottom of the passport is missing or unclear
  • The photo is blurry, smudged, or has visible defects
  • The passport is rotated, wrinkled, or bulging

Official Requirements for Japan eVisa Passport Photos

To pass the automated checks, your photo must:

  • Show the full passport spread with the biographical data page
  • Clearly display the MRZ (the two lines of machine-readable text at the bottom)
  • Be free of glare, reflections, and shadows
  • Have a plain white or off-white background
  • Be in focus, with no blurring or smudging
  • Be correctly oriented (not rotated)
  • Show the entire document without cropping important information

Expert Recommendations for a Successful Upload

Based on our experience and the logic used in our photo processing service, here are the most important tips to ensure your photo is accepted:

  • Include the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ): Make sure the two lines of text with <<<< symbols at the bottom of the passport data page are fully visible and clear.
  • Check for Clarity: The MRZ and all biographical data must be sharp and readable. Avoid any smudges, haze, or blurring.
  • Avoid Glare and Reflections: Take the photo in soft, even lighting. Watch out for reflections from overhead lights or windows.
  • Keep the Passport Flat: Lay the passport flat on a dark, non-reflective surface. Avoid bending, wrinkling, or bulging the document.
  • Correct Orientation: Ensure the passport is not rotated. The text and MRZ should be horizontal and upright in the image.
  • Show the Full Passport Spread: Do not crop out any part of the data page or MRZ. The entire page should be visible.
  • Use a Plain Background: Place the passport on a plain white or off-white background for best results.
  • Take a High-Resolution Photo: Use a good camera or smartphone. Make sure the image is in focus and not pixelated.
  • Avoid Shadows: Make sure your hands or phone do not cast shadows on the passport.

Step-by-Step Guide to Taking the Perfect Passport Photo for Japan eVisa

  1. Prepare Your Passport: Open the passport to the data page and lay it flat on a white or off-white surface.
  2. Set Up Lighting: Use natural daylight or soft, diffused indoor lighting. Avoid direct flash.
  3. Frame the Shot: Hold your camera directly above the passport. Make sure the entire data page and MRZ are visible.
  4. Check the Image: Before uploading, zoom in to ensure all text is sharp and readable. Retake the photo if there is any blur, glare, or shadow.
  5. Upload the Photo: Follow the Japan eVisa website instructions. If you see an error, review the tips above and try again.

Still Having Trouble? Let the Experts Help

If you continue to face issues or want to guarantee your photo meets all requirements, consider using a professional service like iShotAPhoto.com. We use advanced technology and expert review to ensure your photo is fully compliant, saving you time and stress.

Get your Japan eVisa passport photo right the first time—travel with confidence!

Happy travels!