Japan Require Photos for New Residence Cards for Children

Key Point  

• Japan will require photo submission for residence cards issued to foreign nationals aged 1 to 15 beginning June 14, 2026, as part of its rollout of the new residence card format. 

Photos for New Residence Cards 

Japan’s Immigration Services Agency (ISA) announced that, beginning June 14, 2026, the country will introduce a new residence card format. As part of this change, foreign nationals ages 1 to 15 will now be required to submit a facial photograph when applying for or receiving a residence card or special permanent resident certificate. 

This marks a significant shift from current rules, which do not require photos for applicants under 16. 

Who Is Affected 

The new photo requirement applies to: 

• Foreign nationals ages 1–15 applying for a new residence card 
• Foreign nationals ages 1–15 receiving a renewed or updated residence card 
• Special permanent residents receiving a new certificate 

Applicants aged 16 and older must already submit photos and remain unaffected.

Applications Submitted Before June 14, 2026 

ISA may request a voluntary photo submission even for applications filed before June 14, 2026, if it issues the residence card on or after the implementation date.

Online Applications 

Japan’s online residence application system currently allows applicants under 16 to upload a “photo not required” placeholder. Beginning June 14, 2026, applicants ages 1–15 must upload an actual photo file. 

Additional Information  

• Residence cards issued before June 14, 2026, will not display a photo for ages 1–15. 
• Residence cards issued on or after June 14, 2026, will always include a photo for this age group. 
• ISA may request additional documentation for pending applications to ensure smooth issuance. 

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