Japan Introduces Mandatory Photos for Residence Cards for Children Aged 1 to 15
In short. From June 14, 2026, Japan will require a photo for the Residence Card and Special Permanent Resident Certificate for children aged 1 to 15.
- From June 14, 2026, a photo on the residence card is mandatory for children aged 1 to 15.
- Children under 1 year (0 years old) are exempt from the photo requirement.
- Current residence cards remain valid until their expiration date.
- When applying online before June 14, the child's photo must be uploaded as a PDF file in the supplementary materials.
From June 14, 2026, Japan is changing the rules for issuing residence cards (Zairyu Card) and special permanent resident certificates. The main change is the mandatory presence of a photograph for children aged 1 to 15.
What has changed
In accordance with changes to Japan's immigration legislation (Act No. 59 of 2024), a new format for residence cards will be introduced from June 14, 2026. Previously, children under 16 were exempt from the requirement to provide a photograph. This exemption has now been removed for children aged 1 and older.
| Child's age | Until June 14, 2026 | From June 14, 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1 year (0 years old) | Photo not required | Photo not required |
| From 1 to 15 years old | Photo not required | Photo mandatory |
| 16 years and older | Photo mandatory | Photo mandatory |
Who is affected
The new requirements apply to foreigners residing in Japan with children aged 1 to 15 (including Ukrainians with "Designated Activities" status or other long-term visas) who plan to:
- Apply for or renew their status of residence (Residence Card).
- Change their visa type.
- Replace a lost residence card.
- Apply for a Special Permanent Resident Certificate.
What to do now
- Prepare a photo of the child: If you are applying for a new card after June 14, 2026, include a photo of the child in accordance with the general requirements of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
- Consider the transition period: If you apply before June 14, but the card is expected to be issued after this date, you may be asked to provide a photo of the child in advance.
- Online application before June 14: Since the system has not yet been updated to accept photos of children under 16 in the standard field, the photo must be uploaded in PDF format with the file name "顔写真" (facial photo) in the supplementary materials section («資料添付欄»).
- For special permanent residents: When applying at a municipality from June 10 to 13, 2026, if the child turns 1 year old as of June 14, a photo is already mandatory.
Common mistakes
- Not providing a photo when applying online before June 14: Many ignore this because the system does not require a photo in the main field. Be sure to add a PDF file to the supplementary materials if you expect to receive the card after June 14.
- Thinking that old cards become invalid: Your current residence card remains valid until its expiration date. Only the rules for new cards issued from June 14, 2026, are changing.
- Photographing infants: Children under 1 year (0 years old) still do not need a photo on their residence card.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.
Related guides
Official sources
Questions
- Do I need to replace my child's current residence card before it expires?
- No, current cards remain valid until their expiration date. The new rules only apply to cards issued from June 14, 2026.
- How do I submit a child's photo online before June 14, 2026?
- Since the system has not yet been updated, the photo must be saved in PDF format with the name "顔写真" and uploaded to the supplementary materials section («資料添付欄»).
- Is a photo required for infants under 1 year old?
- No, a photo on the residence card is not required for children under 1 year (0 years old).