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Frequently Asked Questions about Japan visa

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The tourist visa for Japan is available to foreign nationals who wish to visit for the holidays. However, there are selected countries whose citizens do not have to comply with the visa requirements as they are on the visa exempt list. These countries include the EU, the US, Argentina, Australia, and others. 

If you are from any of these countries on the visa waiver program, you can travel to Japan for tourism with just your passport. However, foreign nationals from other countries not on the list have to apply for a tourist visa.

What Is The Japan Tourist Visa?

The Japanese tourist visa is a travel document issued to foreign nationals by Japanese authorities from non-visa-exempt countries who wish to visit the country for the holidays. This visa is a short-stay visa valid for 90 days or 6 months. The single-entry visa validity is for 90 days and can only be used once, while the double-entry visa is valid for6 months and can be used twice to enter the country.

This visa is solely for tourist purposes and doesn’t allow the holder to engage in any work to earn income during their stay in the country. Furthermore, the government of Japan doesn’t grant visa extensions unless under special circumstances, so visitors are advised to leave the country before or on the day their visa expires so as not to be guilty of immigration violations.

Japan Tourist Visa Application Requirements

Those who wish to apply for a tourist visa must meet the requirements as shown below.

Valid Passport:  A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months is required. The passport should also have at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps.

Colored Photograph:  A colored photograph not older than 3 months is required. The photograph should show the applicant’s face clearly.

Birth Certificate: A copy of their birth certificate.

Proof of Financial Capacity: Documents to prove financial capacity are required. The government wants to ensure that applicants can support themselves during their stay in Japan. A statement of account for 6 months will suffice.

Travel Itinerary: Information about the applicant's travel itinerary. The place they plan to stay and visit, and their arrival and departure date.

Above all, the authorities want to be sure that the person applying for the tourist visa has every plan to return to their home country at the expiration of their visa. Applicants must show that they have strong ties with their home countries before entering Japan.

Is There A Multiple Entry Visa?

The government of Japan has multiple entry visas for tourists who want to visit Japan regularly. 

Applicants may apply for a 1-5 years visa depending on their nationality and passport. Multiple entry visas allow the holder to visit as often as they wish, but they cannot stay for more than 30 days per visit.

Japan Tourist Visa Fee 

The tourist visa fee varies depending on the validity of the visa and type. Single-entry visas cost less than double or multiple-entry visas. Multiple entry visas are valid for 1 year or more and cost more than 6 months or 30 days visas. Those who wish to visit Japan for medical treatment may also apply for a tourist visa under Japanese law. 

How To Apply For A Tourist Visa?

Interested applicants may apply for a tourist visa by visiting the nearest Japanese consulate to submit their application form, but those who don’t live close to an embassy, they can apply for a Japanese E visa online.

Japan E Visa

 The Japanese E visa was launched in August 2022 as part of the government’s plans to increase the number of foreign visitors to 60 million annually by 2030. The visa was only open to US and Canadian citizens, but other citizens from eligible countries may now apply. If you are from an E-visa country, you can visit VisaHQ to apply by doing the following.

Log onto VisaHQ and enter Japan as your destination

Choose your country of origin

Select ‘Tourist visa'

Fill out the application form

Scan and attach all necessary documents

Pay the visa fee with a bank-issued card

Submit for approval

Once you submit the form online, it will be processed, and you should receive feedback in the next 5-7 working days. Successful applicants will receive the electronic visa in their email inbox, which they should print out and bring to Japan when they visit.

The immigration officers on duty will examine the visa and other documents, and if they are satisfied, they will stamp their passports and be allowed into the country.

The  Japan tourist visa  application form is available on VisaHQ. Kindly visit the platform to complete it and ensure you only provide accurate details; otherwise, your application will be rejected.

Are you someone who has an interest in visiting Japan for business purposes? Do you have an upcoming event you wish to attend in the Asian country? For this, you will need to acquire a  Japan business visa  before you can legally enter the country unless you are one of those foreign nationals exempt from visa inquiries. This page contains information about the business visa application process and the visa requirements all applicants must meet. Keep reading to learn more.

Traveling To Japan

Japan is one of the most industrialized nations on earth with a trillion-dollar economy. Being a top business destination, it is home to some of the biggest conglomerates in the world and nightlife districts. Every year, millions of visitors visit the country for business and pleasure, and you can do the same by applying for a Japan visa.

What Is The Japan Business Visa?

A business visa is a travel document issued by the Japanese government to foreign nationals entering Japan to pursue their economic interests. Business visas are short-term visas valid for 90 days and allow the holder to stay for 30 days. However, multiple entry visas have a longer validity, and the holder can stay for up to 90 days before departure. Anyone visiting for a business-related purpose such as business talks, attending a conference or meeting may apply for this visa to enter Japan. 

Remember: a business visa is not the same as a work visa. Business visas are short-term, and the holder is not allowed to work and earn wages directly from an employer during their stay in the country, unlike a work visa.

Do I Need A Japan Business Visa?

You don’t need a Japan visa if you are from a visa-exempt country. To be sure, consult the visa-free list. Also, this visa is only for business-related activities, so if you plan to visit for work, study, tourism, or any other purpose, you need an appropriate visa.

Documents Required For A Japan Business Visa

You need the following visa application documents when applying for a business visa.

Visa Form:  The visa application form is one of the most important documents required for this visa. Applicants must fill theirs correctly with vital details as they appear on their documents. All fields must be filled. Fields you don’t have answers to should be filled with N/A.

Passport:  A valid passport is also part of the required documents. Only passports with a minimum of 6 months' validity will be accepted. It must also have at least 2 blank pages on which the immigration officers at the airport will affix stamps.

Photograph:  A passport-sized photograph of oneself taken in 4.5cm x 4.5cm dimension. With the applicant’s name written on the back.

Flight Itinerary: A copy of the applicant’s flight itinerary showing the departure and arrival dates, flight reservation number, name, and other vital information.

Business Registration Data:  This information is required for applicants who own a business entity in Japan.

Letter of Invitation:  Those invited by a company or organisation in Japan must provide the invitation letter sent to them stating the purpose of the trip. The letter should be addressed to the Japanese embassy.

Letter of Guarantee:  A letter of guarantee stamped and sealed with the company’s seal.

Proof of Funds:  A statement of account to prove that the applicant has the financial capacity to meet their needs during their stay.

Other documents may be required of you, but these are the most important.

How To Apply For A Japan Business Visa?

You can apply for a Japanese in one of the following ways. 

Visit The Embassy

 You can visit the Japanese embassy in your country or residence to submit a physical application form and copies of your documents. The embassy will schedule an interview with you where your application form and documents will be vetted. The process takes about 15-20 days before the visa will be released. 

Online Application

 The online application method is only open to citizens of selected countries; if you are from an eligible country, visit VisaHQ to apply online by following these steps:

Log onto VisaHQ\n

\nSelect Japan as your destination

Pick your country of origin

Select “Business visa” as your visa of choice

Fill out the application form correctly

Attach scanned copies of your documents

Pay the visa application fee

Online applications don’t take as much time as embassy applications, so you should receive the visa at your email address in a few working days.

The  Japan business visa  form is available on VisaHQ. Feel free to visit the platform to complete the form.

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With regards to visa inquiries, you can contact “Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information” or “the Japan Visa Information Hotline” listed on the website of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan. For more information and advice, please contact the Consular Section of the Diplomatic Mission of Japan with jurisdiction over your place of residence.

Please see below for details about visa.

1. Visa Application Procedures

2. about visa.

• 3. Visa Application Documents

4. Frequently Asked Questions

5. announcements.

• 6. Inquiries Concerning Visas
• Be aware of fraudulent website, social media, emails in an attempt to extract payments from visa applicants (July 5, 2017)

Short-Term Stay

(A stay of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include remunerative activities)

Click on the nationality of the visa applicant traveling to Japan.

• Philippines
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• The JAPAN eVISA system (electronic visa)
• Countries or Regions for Visa Exemptions

Visa exemption arrangements have been resumed from 0:00 am (JST) on October 11, 2022.

It is highly recommended to purchase international travel medical insurance for your trip to Japan. Overseas travel medical insurance helps you in case of emergency.

Work or Long-Term Stay

(A stay during which the applicant performs remunerative work in Japan or a stay of over 90 days in Japan, etc.)

• Procedures chart for long-term stays
• The Working Holiday Programmes in Japan
• Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening

Visa for Medical Stay

Visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders.

• Points to Note and Application Procedures
• Visa Processing Time
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• Criteria of Visa Issuance
• Visas and Landing Permission

3. Visa Application Documents (download)

• (Note2) Company/personal seal on Letter of Guarantee and Letter of Invitation is no longer required.
• Visa Application Form
• Tell me why you rejected my visa application.
• I want to go to Japan. Do I need a visa?
• I want to invite a foreign national to Japan. What procedures are necessary?
• What should I do to get a Certificate of Eligibility?
• The Certificate of Eligibility will not arrive by the time I apply for a visa. Can I still apply for a visa with its copy?
• As a “guarantor”, to what extent do I need to be responsible?

Newly introduced visas

• Special Highly Skilled Professional (J-Skip)
• Designated activities (Future Creation Individual, Spouse or Child of Future Creation Individual) (J-Find)
• Designated activities (Digital Nomad, Spouse or Child of Digital Nomad)

Review on restrictions on new entry of foreign nationals into Japan

• Application for Visa for foreign nationals eligible for Phased Measures toward Resuming Cross-Border Travel
• Border measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

Statistics for the Number of Visas

• Number of Visas Issued in 2023 (June 25,2024)

Relaxation of Visa Requirements

• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the Federative Republic of Brazil in Possession of Ordinary Passports(September 30, 2023)
• Signing of the Japan-Israel Working Holiday Agreement (April 28, 2023)
• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the State of Qatar based on Ordinary Passport Registration System (April 2, 2023)
• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the United Arab Emirates in Possession of Ordinary Passports (November 1, 2022)
• Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (April 3, 2020)
• Japan's Visa Policy in Accordance with Measures to Combat Trafficking in Persons (February 2009)

6. Inquiries about Visas Application

Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information

Address: Yotsuya Tower 13F, 1-6-1 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0004 Phone: Navi-Dial: 0570-011000 (For some IP phones and calls from overseas, please call +81-3-5369-6577) Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00

Related Links

• Websites of Japanese Embassies, Consulates and Permanent Missions

What you need to know about Japan visa requirements

Dec 24, 2023 • 3 min read

Visitors from 68 countries can travel to Japan with a free visa on arrival © d3sign / Shutterstock

With its pulsing, modern cities, beautiful rural landscapes and world-renowned cuisine, Japan is one of the top stops for travelers seeking a fully immersive Asian experience. And there's good news: travelers dreaming of a long-awaited trip to Japan need wait no longer – after establishing some of the world’s strictest border control policies during COVID-19, Japan has opened visa-free travel for visitors from most countries.

Read on for a rundown of Japan’s latest entry requirements, and consult Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the most up-to-date information ahead of your travels.

Entry procedures – before you arrive

Ahead of your trip, register at Visit Japan Web , where you can submit your documentation for customs and immigration, and then download your QR code to your smartphone.

When you arrive in Japan, simply show the QR code when requested during the entry process. 

How to get a visa

Residents of 68 countries can enter Japan for up to 90 days for tourism purposes with a free visa upon arrival; this is considered a visa exemption. These countries include the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and most countries in Europe. For a complete list of visa-exempt countries and visa durations, consult the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs . 

On entering Japan, all holders of foreign passports are photographed and fingerprinted. If asked, travelers arriving with a visa upon arrival should be able to provide proof of onward travel or sufficient means to purchase an air or ferry ticket out of Japan. In practice, this is rarely requested. Your passport should also be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

Travelers not from a visa-exempt country will need to apply for one via their nearest Japanese embassy in their home nation or organize one with an accredited travel agent approved by the Japanese Embassy. The cost of visas is approximately 3,000 yen for a single-entry visa and 6,000 yen for a double- or multiple-entry visa. Fees are collected in the currency of the country in which the embassy is located.

The processing period for visas is five business days from the day after the acceptance of the application. For more information about the requirements of applying for a Japanese visa in specific countries, see the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

What if I need to extend my visa?

Extending a visa is possible from within Japan for citizens of Austria, Germany, Ireland, Lichtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland and the UK; these travelers may be able to extend their temporary visitor visa once, for another 90 days. Visitors wishing to do this will need to apply at a regional immigration bureau in Japan before the initial visa expires. If approved, the extension fee is 4,000 yen.

For other nationalities, extending a temporary visa is difficult unless you have family or business contacts in Japan who can act as a guarantor on your behalf. Options should be discussed at your nearest regional immigration bureau.

Longer, working visas are also available to visitors of Japan, which allow people to study, train or work in the country. These usually grant entry for either three years, one year, six months or three months. These visas must be applied for in advance of travel, via an embassy in your country of origin. 

There is also a specific working holiday visa , which allows visitors to engage in small-scale employment while visiting the country for tourism purposes. These are available to people between the ages of 18 to 30 (25 in some cases) from 26 countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Korea, the UK and a number of countries in Europe. The number of hours that can be worked and the type of work permitted are limited under this visa.

This article was first published Mar 17, 2021 and updated Dec 24, 2023.

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All you need to know about entering, leaving and staying in Japan

Any foreign visitor entering Japan must have a valid passport for the duration of their stay, and all visitors must comply with the conditions of their visas.

See below for information about the current visa requirements for Japan.

If you have any further questions, please contact the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

Enjoy the Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Japan

Japan introduced a new visa program specifically for "digital nomads" -international remote workers who are attracting worldwide attention.

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Do I need a visa for Japan?

Most travellers to Japan can enter the country without obtaining a visa in advance. These include nationals from 65 countries, including the USA , Australia , the United Kingdom and New Zealand.  You'll automatically be granted a temporary visitor visa on arrival, which is valid for up to 90 days (as long as you don’t plan to work while you’re in Japan). Even if you are from one of these visa-exempt countries, you must have a passport that remains valid through the time you stay in Japan.  

However, there are plenty of countries that do require their nationals to obtain a visa before their arrival in Japan. These countries include China , Vietnam , the Pacific Islands and Ukraine (among others). Luckily, the visa application process is relatively easy and stress-free as you can apply at your nearest Japanese embassy/consulate. The introduction of e-visas is expected to be launched in the near future, however, they're not available at this time. 

Regardless of whether you need a tourist visa to visit Japan, it's important that you get your passport stamped on arrival as this is needed to secure a Japan Rail Pass. If you don't have a stamp, you won't get a pass and that could disrupt your travel plans if it's your preferred mode of transportation around Japan. 

As well as having a valid passport with at least 6 months' validity, nationals that need to obtain a visa for tourism purposes have to show the following supporting documentation: 

• recent passport-sized photo
• copy of your birth certificate
• travel details, including a return flight 
• proof of financial stability for the duration of your stay in Japan 

Once submitted, the visa approval process usually takes around 5 to 15 business days but it can take longer depending on the visa you're applying for and the Japanese embassy/consulate you're applying at so we recommend starting the process as soon as you figure out your travel plans to avoid any disruptions. 

You'll need to pay for your visa upon application and this can be done at your nearest Japanese embassy/consulate. Please note the payment must be received in that country's currency and that fees are subject to change depending on your nationality and what type of visa you're applying for (a single-stay tourist visa, a multi-stay tourist visa etc). However, the average visa application fee is 3,000 Yen or AUD$32. Once you've paid, you'll receive confirmation that your application has been submitted. 

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 15 June, 2023 

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A Guide to Japanese Visas

A general overview of the Japanese visa system

Every foreign national entering Japan must possess a valid visa. Whether that visa is issued on arrival or applied for in advance is based on what type of "residence" the visitor is seeking.

Below is a brief introduction to some of the visa categories for visitors coming to Japan. For specific questions and more detailed information, it is always best to check with your local Japanese embassy/consulate or the immigration bureau in Japan.

Covid-19 is changing the travel landscape fast, including rules on temporary visas due to imposed restrictions. Check with your local Japanese embassy for the latest details, and follow our coronavirus updates .

Temporary Visitor Visa

Most visitors to Japan can enter the country on a temporary visitor visa, or tourist visa, thanks to visa exemption agreements between Japan and many foreign countries.

For residents of over 60 countries (a full list can be found here ), a fee-free 90-day visa is issued upon arrival. This requires no advance paperwork and amounts to being merely a landing permission stamp in the traveler’s passport. Visitors from a few select countries (including Thailand, Brunei and Indonesia) are permitted to enter Japan on a 15-day fee-free visa and 30 days for the United Arab Emirates

Visitors of certain nationalities (Austria, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland or the United Kingdom) who enter Japan on a 90-day visa can extend their stay in the country by up to six months. Those interested in this option would need to apply for an extension—usually after the halfway mark of an existing visa—at the nearest immigration bureau in Japan.

Student Visa

Those who would like to attend university or language courses in Japan that last longer than 90 days should apply for a student visa.

Most universities and schools will be able to assist potential students with the application process. An application usually needs proof of enrollment at a host institution and evidence that a student can capably support themselves financially during the term of study.

Students who hope to seek part-time employment to supplement their savings while in Japan would have to apply for special permission from the local immigration bureau.

Most student visas are issued for a term of three months to just over 4 years. This can be extended if the student can prove he is still enrolled.

Working Holiday Visa

Citizens of 23 countries/regions (France, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, UK, Ireland, Portugal, Denmark, Norway, Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Hungary, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Iceland, Czech and Lithuania) can enter Japan on a working holiday visa.

This status allows visitors to pursue part-time work for up to a year in Japan. This visa is not intended for full-time positions, but rather for a series of short-term opportunities.

To apply for this program, visitors must be between the ages of 18 and 30 (both inclusive at the time of visa application) however the condition of age may be different depending on the applicant's issued country. They are required to hold citizenship in one of the aforementioned countries, and submit the following documents for consideration:

• Submit both the required form and a CV (resume)
• Supply proof that you possess sufficient funds to support yourself
• Register at the embassy of your home country upon arrival in Japan

More information can be found at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Working Holiday official site and the Japan Association for Working Holiday Makers website (which also has a very useful job posting board).

Those who wish to engage in paid, full-time activities in Japan must enter the country with a valid work visa. Work visas are issued based on what area or field you will be working in during your time in Japan (i.e. journalism, business management, the arts, teaching, engineering, entertainment, etc). If you change jobs within Japan to a different field, it is necessary to apply for a different type of work visa.

Work visas are issued mostly to those who have either advanced degrees (university level or higher) or who possess a significant amount of experience in their field. It helps greatly to have a company "sponsor", showing that you have potential (or guaranteed) employment upon arrival.

Work visas are generally issued for a period ranging from four months to five years and are renewable.

In some cases it is possible to switch from another visa type to a work visa from within Japan if the applicant meets the required conditions — check the Application for Change of Status of Residence page on the Immigration Bureau of Japan website.

Other Visas

Several other visa categories exist that don't fall into the major categories above. These include the SOFA visa (for military members stationed in Japan or on orders), investor visa, and skilled foreign worker visa.

For more details on those visas, as well as the ones mentioned above, please contact your local Japanese consulate or see the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for guidance. For information regarding Specified visas such as Spouse or Child of a Japanese national please check this page on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Contact Information

• Inquiries about visa examination status: Inquiries can be made only for cases in which the application documents have been transferred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo from Japanese Embassies or Consulates where the visa application was initially lodged. Monday to Friday from 10:00-12:00 and 14:00-16:00.
• Other inquiries about visas: Monday to Friday from 09:00-12:30 and 13:30-17:00. Note: The automatic answering machine service is available only in Japanese (open 24 hours).
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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Japan Visa for Tourists in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: March 26, 2024

After being completely closed for tourism for more than 2 years, Japan finally reopened on October 11, 2022, restoring the previous visa exemptions and reducing the visa requirements.

Many nationalities are exempt from having to get a visa. Nationals and residents of select countries can obtain an eVisa online and everyone else can visit one of the over 200 embassies and consulates worldwide.

Table of Contents

Visa policy and visa types.

Nationals from 70 countries can travel to Japan visa-free . Most can stay up to 90 days.

Unless exempt, nationals and residents from 11 countries can apply for an eVisa online. They may still have to visit their nearest Japanese embassy. The eVisa allows stays for up to 90 days.

Everyone else must obtain a regular tourist visa from a Japanese overseas mission before traveling.

Japan does not have a visa on arrival.

Below is a summary of available visa types for tourists. 

Entry Requirements

The following requirements apply to all visitors to Japan:

• Passport, which will remain valid during the period of stay
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the cost of stay
• Return or onward ticket

Border officials rarely ask about the last 2. 

For the specific visa requirements, see the corresponding section below.

Visa Exemption

Nationals of 70 countries are visa-exempted to travel to Japan. 65 countries are allowed to stay 90 days and the remaining 5 countries are allowed to say 14 to 30 days depending on the nationality. 

There are additional requirements for some nationalities, outlined below. It’s best to check the official Japanese Foreign Ministry website for details.

• Austria (6)
• Barbados (5)
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Germany (6)
• Hong Kong (3)
• Ireland (6)
• Lesotho (5)
• Liechtenstein (6)
• Malaysia (2)
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• South Korea
• Switzerland (6)
• United Kingdom (6)
• United States
• United Arab Emirates (2)
• Indonesia (1)
• Thailand (2)
• Must register an ePassport at a Japanese embassy in the respective country. Registration is valid for 3 years but not longer than the passport’s expiry date.
• Must have an ePassport, otherwise, need a visa.
• Only for passports issued by the corresponding Special Administrative Region.
• Must have a personal ID number.
• Must have a Machine-Readable Passport .
• Eligible to extend their stay to up to 6 months. Applications are made at a Regional Immigration Bureau inside Japan.

Japan eVisa

All nationals and residents from below 14 countries are eligible to apply for Japan eVisa. Those already visa-exempt don’t need to apply.

• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• Mongolia* 

*Required to apply through an agency (see below).

Characteristics

• Only for tourism
• Valid for 3 months, single-entry only
• Duration of stay up to 90 days
• Fee 3,000 JPY or equivalent. Payable online or in person at the embassy. Some nationalities are exempt from the fee (check with your embassy)
• Processing takes 5 days to issue but could sometimes take longer

Documents required

What documents are required depends on your nationality and residence. These are the most commonly asked documents but check on the eVisa portal online for an exact list.

• Passport scan
• Color picture taken within the last 6 months
• Proof of immigration status (e.g. Permanent Residence Card or Visa if applicable )
• Flight itinerary (you don’t have to buy the tickets in advance, an itinerary from an airline is sufficient)
• Recent bank statement
• Travel itinerary (must be specific format, download eVisa travel itinerary template here)
• Proof of current residential address (e.g. driver’s license, state ID, utility bill, or lease agreement)
• Visa for the country you will visit after Japan (unless it’s your own country)

Application procedure

Applying online is incredibly simple. You can check out this video from Japan’s MOFA or follow the steps below. 

• Go to Japan eVisa portal
• Register an account
• Fill out the application and upload the necessary documents
• Wait for your documents to be examined. You may be asked to submit additional documents. You will receive an email inviting you to pay when this step is complete.
• Pay online or in person
• After the eVisa has been issued, log in and make sure you can show the “ Visa Issuance Notice ” on your smartphone.

There’s no need to print any documents. On the contrary, you must show the visa on a digital device. Screenshots are not accepted either.

At the border, show the visa issuance notice with the QR code. 

Once inside the country, you will receive an email saying your eVisa has expired. Don’t panic. This means you cannot use it to enter Japan again. You are allowed to stay up to 90 days inside Japan.

Applying from China, Vietnam, and Mongolia

Obtaining an eVisa for Japan in these three countries comes with special provisions.

EVisa is available to nationals of China who reside in China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau). You must apply through a Japan Visa Application Center or an accredited travel agency.

The eVisa grants entry to Japan for up to 30 days. Read more about it on the Japanese embassy in China website .

EVisa is available to nationals of Vietnam, who reside in Vietnam. You must book a packaged tour organized by a travel agency.

EVisa is available ONLY to foreign nationals who reside in Mongolia. You must apply at the Japan Visa Application Center (VAC) in Mongolia. Check with the Japanese embassy in Mongolia for more information.

Read the Japan eVisa article for more in-depth information on eVisa requirements, processing times, application process and border procedures.

Japan Tourist Visa

Everyone who’s not visa-exempt must obtain a visa to travel to Japan. If the eVisa isn’t an option, then you must obtain a tourist visa from a Japanese embassy.

Tourist visas are mostly single-entry. The term of stay can be either 15, 30 or 90 days from the date of entry. The visa itself is valid for 3 months for single entry and up to 5 years for multiple entry.

Requirements

The requirements for a tourist visa may differ depending on your nationality and the embassy you apply from. In most cases, they are:

• Passport with at least 2 blank pages
• Completed Visa Application Form
• 1 Passport-sized color photo taken within the last 6 months
• Flight itinerary
• Hotel reservation unless staying in an invitee’s home. It must cover the entire stay in Japan .
• Detailed, day-by-day itinerary in Japan .
• Most recent bank statement
• Proof of immigration status (if applicable)

The visa costs 3,000 JPY (~21$) or equivalent.

For further reading, check out the Japan Tourist Visa article for details such as when to apply, photo requirements and the application process.

Benefits of Japan tourist visa

Japan’s tourist visa is becoming a strong visa these days. That means Japanese visas have added benefits such as VISA-FREE travel to many other countries. As of 2024, you can travel to 14 countries with a Japanese visa. Read the VISA-FREE countries for Japan visa article for more details.

Transiting in Japan

Not leaving the airport.

If you are not already visa-exempt, you can transit in Japan without a visa only if:

• You stay within the international transit area of the airport;
• You have the necessary documents needed for the next country of destination;
• within 72 hours for Tokyo Haneda Airport or Kansai Airport (Osaka);
• within the same calendar day for all other airports.

Transit Visa

If you intend to pass through immigration and enter Japan for a short period, you must obtain a transit visa.

The requirements and procedures for obtaining transit visas are identical to regular tourist visas.

The main differences are in cost and duration of stay. The transit visa costs 700 JPY (~5$) and is issued for a maximum of 15 days but usually just 2-3 days until your next flight.

Japan Shore Pass

If you are transiting in Japan for less than 72 hours and you have a connecting flight that’s NOT on the same day, you may be able to obtain the Japan Shore Pass.

The application for it is usually done by the airline so it’s best to consult them.

To be eligible for the shore pass, you must arrive and depart from airports and seaports within the same group.

• Airports : Narita, Haneda, Nagoya, Niigata, Komatsu, Yokota.
• Seaports : Tokyo, Yokohama, Niigata, Nagoya.
• Airports : Osaka, Nagoya, Komatsu.
• Seaports : Osaka, Kobe, Nagoya.
• Airports : Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, Naha, Kadena.
• Seaports : Hakata, Shimonoseki, Naha.
• Airports : Chitose.
• Seaports : Tomakomai, Otaru, Hakodate, Muroran.

Entry Procedure at the Airports

You may use the Visit Japan Web to submit all required information online. It’s not mandatory. Instead of paper forms, you will show QR codes.

After landing, you will sequentially go through immigration and customs.

If you got the eVisa, show your visa issuance notice on a smartphone. Otherwise, just your passport. Get a stamp and enjoy Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a covid vaccination certificate required to travel to japan.

COVID vaccination certificates and tests are not required since April 29, 2023.

Can I apply for a Japan visa online?

Yes but only if you’re a national or resident of the 11 eligible countries listed above.

How much does a Japan visa cost?

Japan visa costs 3000 YEN or equivalent in another currency.

How long does visa processing take?

Japan visa processing normally takes 5 working days but it could take more. It’s a good idea to apply for a visa at least a month before you travel.

Can I get a multiple-entry visa?

Japan eVisas are single-entry only. Embassies may issue multiple-entry visas depending on your circumstances.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from HeyMondo . HeyMondo offers a 5% discount to Visa Traveler readers (use the link above), and covers all medical and travel emergencies during your trip.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Entering Japan

Below is a basic introduction to the Japanese immigration system. Contact your closest Japanese embassy or consulate outside Japan or an immigration bureau inside Japan for official advice.

All foreigners, including foreign residents, get fingerprinted and photographed upon entering Japan as a measure aimed at preventing terrorism and other illegal activities. Excluded from this procedure are persons under the age of 16 and a few special groups, such as diplomats and visiting dignitaries.

All foreigners receive a status of residence when entering Japan. There are more than twenty statuses of residence, including "temporary visitor" for tourists, and a range of statuses for students , workers and relatives of Japanese nationals and residents.

If you are a citizen of one of the over 50 countries with which Japan has a "general visa exemption arrangement", you need only a valid passport to enter Japan as a "temporary visitor". Otherwise, you need to obtain a visa before entering the country. Temporary visitors from most countries are allowed to stay for up to 90 days.

If you are a citizen of Austria, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland or the United Kingdom, you have the possibility to extend your stay to a total of up to six months. You still initially enter Japan on a 90 day permit, but can then apply for an extension at an immigration bureau in Japan.

Visitors to Japan are encouraged to use Visit Japan Web to digitally submit immigration and customs-related information ahead of their arrival for a smoother entry into the country without the need to fill out paper forms. The system can be used to also create a tax exemption QR code for an enhanced tax-free shopping experience.

Temporary visitors are not allowed to engage in any paid activities. However, short term studies at Japanese language schools are permitted.

All foreign tourists in Japan are required to carry their passports with them at all times.

Longer stays for the wealthy and digital nomads

If you are a citizen of one of the over 50 countries with which Japan has a "general visa exemption arrangement" and have savings of over 30 million yen, you and your spouse may qualify to stay in Japan for up to one year for the purpose of sightseeing and recreation. Likewise, professionals with an annual income of over 10 million yen may qualify to work remotely from Japan for up to six months. Respective visas (for "long-term residents for sightseeing/recreation" or "digital nomads") have to be obtained before traveling to Japan.

White-collar work

Foreigners who wish to work in Japan need to get a work visa from a Japanese embassy or consulate outside of Japan to enter the country on a status of residence permitting work.

There are over a dozen such statuses of residence, each allowing the holder to work only in a specific professional field, for example, journalism, arts, research, education, engineering, entertainment, business management, international services, etc. If you change jobs while you are in Japan and your new job falls into a different professional field (e.g. from education to engineering), you will need to change your status of residence.

A university degree or considerable professional experience in the applicable field is required to qualify for most work visa types. Most also require you to have a prospective employer as a sponsor. Residence permission is granted in periods of 4 months to 5 years and is extendable.

Workers may bring their spouses and children to Japan on a dependent visa. Dependents are not allowed to engage in any paid activities unless they get permission from the immigration office, but even then, they may work only a set maximum number of hours per week.

Other work and trainees

The so-called "Specified Skills" status allows for work in one of over a dozen professional fields, including construction, hospitality, nursing and manufacturing. Applicants do not need a degree but have to pass a technical skills test and know some Japanese. There are two types: Type 1 allows workers to stay in Japan for up to five years, but they may not bring their family. Type 2 is for more highly qualified workers, can be extended indefinitely and allows for the family to live in Japan. Type 1 holders may upgrade to type 2 after five years.

Furthermore, there is the "Technical Intern Training Program", which lets foreign workers acquire skills at a workplace in Japan that they could not otherwise acquire in their home countries. After a few years, participants become eligible to switch to the above-mentioned "Specified Skill" type 1 status. Most trainees come from South East Asia.

Working holidays

This is a special visa type that allows some paid activity for citizens of Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, France, Ireland, Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and a few other countries between the ages of 18 and 30. Consult the working holiday visa page for details.

Foreigners who wish to study in Japan (except for short term studies at language schools ) need to get a student visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate outside of Japan in order to enter the country on a status of residence that permits long term studies.

Sponsorship from an educational institution in Japan and proof of sufficient funds to cover all your expenses during your stay are required to qualify for a student visa. Residence permission is granted in periods of between 3 months and 4 years and 3 months and is extendable.

Students must not engage in paid activities unless they get permission from the immigration office. Even then, students may work only a set maximum number of hours per week.

Foreigners who are married to a Japanese national or to a permanent resident of Japan can obtain a spouse visa, which allows them to engage in any paid activity in Japan. Residence permission is granted in periods of 6 months or 1, 3 or 5 years and is extendable.

Staying in Japan

Inside Japan, most immigration-related matters, such as extending residence permission or changing the status of residence, are handled by the Immigration Services Agency, which has bureaus across the country.

Residence card

All new foreign residents are issued a residence card (zairyu card) upon initially entering Japan at Narita , Haneda , Kansai or Chubu airports. New residents arriving through different ports can get their cards at their municipal offices.

The residence card is an important document required for opening a bank account , obtaining a cell phone , converting a drivers license and similar activities. It stores the holder's personal information, including the current address, the status of residence and period of stay. Foreign residents are required to carry their residence card with them at all times.

Extending residence permission

Most statuses of residence allow you to stay in Japan for a period between three months and five years. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for an extension at an immigration bureau inside Japan before the expiry date of your current residence permission.

The application process is relatively simple, provided that you still fulfill the conditions for the specific status of residence. It typically takes a couple of days or weeks for the application to be processed, and you are allowed to remain in Japan during that time even if your previous residence permission expires in the meantime.

Changing status of residence

It is possible to change your status of residence (e.g. from instructor to arts or from student to engineer) at an immigration bureau inside Japan. You will have to provide similar documentation as you would when applying for a new status of residence at an embassy or consulate outside of Japan.

Re-entry permits

Foreign residents who wish to temporarily leave Japan for longer than a year, need to get a re-entry permit before departing Japan; otherwise, they lose their status of residence. Re-entry permits can be obtained at immigration offices in Japan. For absences of less than one year, re-entry permits are not required.

Permanent residence

Foreign residents, who have shown good conduct and have sufficient assets or ability to make an independent living, can be granted permanent residence if they reside in Japan for a certain number of consecutive years. For highly-skilled professionals and spouses of Japanese nationals, the minimum amount of years is typically one to five years, while for others it is typically ten years. Permanent residence status is indefinite and allows for any paid activity.

Naturalization

Foreigners, who have resided in Japan for at least five consecutive years (less if married to a Japanese national), have shown good conduct, have never plotted against the Japanese government, have sufficient assets or ability to make an independent living and are willing to renounce any other citizenship held, can be granted Japanese citizenship.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

A guide to japanese visas, japan customs, guide to the animal quarantine service, the ministry of foreign affairs, immigration services agency of japan.