【2025 Latest Edition】How to Avoid Passport Photo Rejection | Common Mistakes and Tips to Pass

August 26, 2026 August 26, 2026

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Did you know that many people have their exciting overseas trips ruined simply due to "photo specification errors"?
In fact, cases where applications are rejected due to excessive photo editing or overlooking fine details are quite common.
In this article, from a professional point of view, we will clearly explain common "passport photo troubles" in Japan and how to prevent them!

Trouble ①: Deemed a "Different Person" Due to Excessive Editing
Trouble ②: Defects Caused by Background Color and Shadows
Trouble ③: Even a Single Strand of Hair Can Be Fatal
Trouble ④: Face Hidden by Accessories or Other Items
Trouble ⑤: Data Specification Errors in Online Applications
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A) | Key Points to Check Before Applying
Summary: Review Your Passport Photo for a Worry-Free Departure

Trouble ①: Deemed a "Different Person" Due to Excessive Editing

Passport photos need to clearly show "your face" to prove your identity. If you alter your eyes or facial contour through editing, you risk being judged as a "different person" during identity verification.

Case Study:
Using a smartphone app to enlarge the eyes and slim the face resulted in the photo being judged as "unable to confirm identity" during inspection, and the application was sent back. With not enough days left before the trip, the travel plans had to be postponed.

A passport is an international identity document. Since excessive editing interferes with personal identification, it is crucial to keep adjustments to a natural level of brightness.

Trouble ②: Defects Caused by Background Color and Shadows

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends a white background. However, depending on the shooting environment, shadows may appear in the background, or the background color may turn out grayish or beige. These are deemed inappropriate and may require a resubmission.

Case Study:
Taking a photo in an automated photo booth instead of a studio resulted in a subtle shadow in the background, which failed to meet specifications and required a re-application.

Make sure the background is a "pure white" with no shadows. Even when using a white wall or cloth, be careful that the color does not look ivory or gray.

However, photos where the contour of the face/body is unclear due to a white background combined with white clothing are also invalid. Don't forget to check if there is clear contrast between the background and the person.

Trouble ③: Even a Single Strand of Hair Can Be Fatal

Hair covering your face is also invalid. In particular, if your bangs touch your eyes, it may be judged as "unable to confirm part of the face," requiring resubmission.

Case Study:
A few strands of long bangs fell over the eyes, causing a defect that led to a request for resubmission. Because it was right before departure, the re-application could not be made in time, forcing the trip to be abandoned.

Even a single strand of stray bangs can affect the inspection. The golden rule is to keep your face clear by tucking your hair behind your ears, pinning it up, or tying it back!

Trouble ④: Face Hidden by Accessories or Other Items

Large earrings or hairbands hiding ears, or false eyelashes and eyelash extensions casting shadows around the eyes—these can all cause defects during inspection.

Case Study:
Wearing large earrings covered the ears, which was treated as a defect for "unable to confirm facial contour." Being forced to retake the photo delayed the application.

The condition for a passport photo is that "the area around the face can be clearly confirmed." Avoid wearing anything that might hide parts of your head, facial features, or facial contour!

Trouble ⑤: Data Specification Errors in Online Applications

Starting March 24, 2025, online passport applications became available. However, online applications have strict rules regarding file size, file format, aspect ratio, and more.

Case Study:
When applying through a travel agency, the file size of the sent photo data exceeded the specification, making it impossible to upload and requiring resubmission. As a result, the issuance was delayed by several days.

Detailed specifications are set for online applications, such as "730x600 pixels or larger" and "file format must be jpg (for domestic applications in Japan)."

Click here for an article on online passport applications!
【2025 Latest】Complete Guide to Passport Online Application | Procedure Flow, Required Documents, and ID Photo Tips

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A) | Key Points to Check Before Applying

We have summarized points that are easy to get confused about right before applying in a Q&A format.
It is important to check these in advance, as small doubts can lead to unexpected rejections.

Q1: Is it okay to take a photo while wearing glasses?

A: Basically, we recommend taking off your glasses.
If you wear them, tinted lenses, reflections, or shadows are not allowed! Avoid thick frames that might obscure your eyes.

Q2: Can I use color contact lenses?

A: Color contact lenses are not allowed.
If the size or color of your pupils changes, it interferes with identity verification.
Generally, only medical clear contact lenses are permitted.

Q3: How should I take a passport photo for a child?

A: The same rules apply to children as to adults. A natural expression with clearly visible eyes and facial contour is essential. For infants, instead of holding them, laying them down on a white or light-colored cloth makes it easier to meet specifications.

By resolving these minor questions in advance, you can significantly reduce the risk of application rejection.

Taking Photos at a Studio is Recommended

"Does this photo meet the regulations?" "I'm worried if my bangs are covering my eyes..." "Is my clothing or background okay?"
Have you ever felt such anxiety after taking a passport photo?

19Studio in Shinjuku takes photos that comply with the passport photo regulations specified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

We perform natural retouching to fix messy hair or wrinkled clothes and make contrast adjustments between the background and clothing, delivering a photo you can feel confident about for inspection. We also support urgent applications and trip preparations with unlimited retakes until you are satisfied and same-day photo data delivery.

Why not reduce the risk of rejection due to defects and get a photo at 19Studio that ensures a smooth travel preparation?

Click here for details!

Summary: Review Your Passport Photo for a Worry-Free Departure

A passport photo is not "just an ID photo," but your departure ticket for your journey.
Make sure to thoroughly review whether your photo meets the regulations so you don't face a situation where a small defect cancels your trip.
19Studio fully supports you so you can embark on your journey with a confident smile!