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Embassy of Japan in the United States of America

Visa and Travel Information

• If you need a visa, check how and when you can apply for a visa: General Rules & Processing Time
• If you do NOT need a visa, skip to STEP #6 .

Visa Information

Who needs a visa.

• The Visa Waiver Program applies based on your nationality, NOT on your U.S. residence status (including green card).

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General Rules for Visa Application

Application procedure & processing time.

• In general, it takes 5 business days to issue a visa. (ex., If you apply on Monday, you can pick up a visa next Monday. Our holidays are not counted as business days.)
• It may take more than one month depending on the visa. We recommend that you apply for a visa approximately 1.5 months before your departure date. We do NOT have expedited services.

Types of Visas & Application Documents

• Please click on the applicable box below to see application documents on each visa. 
• If you intend to stay in Japan more than 90 days, please click on the "COE Holders" box.

Application drop-off/pick-up & payment Hours

• No appointment required.
• No parking available.
• Please check our holidays before visiting.
• In case of adverse weather conditions, Embassy of Japan follows the guideline of U.S. Federal Government. When the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) announces federal agencies in the Washington, D.C. area are "closed" or "delayed", Embassy of Japan along with VISA section will be closed/delayed accordingly.
• The Embassy will NOT accept any applications by mail.

• US citizens are exempt from visa fees. (Some countries and regions are also exempt from visa fees. Please check the Visa Fee Exempt list to find out if your visa fee is waived. )
• We accept CASH only. We DO NOT accept personal checks and credit cards.

Information on Border Measures

Visiting japan.

• After April 29, 2023, pre-registration for quarantine procedures on Visit Japan Web are no longer required, however, you can still use Visit Japan Web to pre-register for "Immigration", "Customs" and "Tax-free Shopping Service" (Optional).   
• For information about traveling with minor(s), please read our FAQ . 

Staying in Japan

• Be aware of traffic rules in Japan
• Nice to Meet You! Let's Be Friends!
• Study in Japan
• Japanese pension law
• Information on Local Call Centers
• It is a CRIME to sell or give a bank account without just cause.
• Roadmap for the Realization of a Society of Harmonious Coexistence with Foreign Nationals
• Comprehensive Measures for Acceptance and Coexistence of Foreign Nationals
• A daily life support portal for foreign nationals
• Guidebook on Living and Working
• New to Japan? Useful pages for foreign nationals

Recommended Information

• Consular Section: Embassy of Japan, 2520 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008
• Office Hours: Application Drop-off/ M-F 9:15am-12:00pm Visa Pick-up/ M-F 1:30pm-4:00pm
• Contact Us: 202-238-6800/ M-F 9:00am-5:00pm
• Japan Visa Information Hotline (Available in English/Vietnamese/Russian/Ukrainian) 1-202-499-1468 Domestic call fee applies, 24hours, 7days/week

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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.

Click here for details:

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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 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.

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Travel Advisory January 8, 2024

Japan - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Japan – Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Japan.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Japan.

If you decide to travel to Japan: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow Embassy Tokyo’s American Citizen Services section on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Japan.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Quick Facts

Duration of intended period of stay. Please note you cannot travel on a passport you have previously declared as lost or stolen even if you subsequently locate it

One page required for entry stamp

Amounts equivalent to ¥1,000,000 or above subject to declaration

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Tokyo  1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420 Japan Telephone: 81-3-3224-5000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 81-3-3224-5000 Fax: 81-3-3224-5856 Our Navigator Assistant will guide you to the information you need.

U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe 2-11-5, Nishitenma, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-8543, Japan Telephone: 81-6-6315-5900 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 81-3-3224-5000 Fax: 81-6-6315-5914 Our  Navigator Assistant  will guide you to the information you need.

U.S. Consulate General Naha 2-1-1 Toyama, Urasoe City, Okinawa, Japan Telephone: 81-98-876-4211 Emergency Telephone: 81-3-3224-5000 Fax: 81-98-876-4243 Our  Navigator Assistant  will guide you to the information you need.

U.S. Consulate General Sapporo Kita 1-jo Nishi 28-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064-0821, Japan Telephone: 81-11-641-1115 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 81-11-641-1115 Fax: 81-11-643-1283 Our Navigator Assistant will guide you to the information you need. All assistance at the Consulate General Sapporo is by appointment only.

U.S. Consulate Fukuoka 5-26 Ohori 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka 810-0052, Japan Telephone: 81-92-751-9331 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 81-3-3224-5000 Fax: 81-92-713-9222 [email protected] Our Navigator Assistant will guide you to the information you need. Routine services are provided by appointment only.

U.S. Consulate Nagoya Nagoya International Center Bldg. 6th floor, 1-47-1 Nagono, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya 450-0001, Japan Telephone: 81-52-581-4501 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 81-3-3224-5000 Fax: 81-52-581-3190 Our Navigator Assistant will guide you to the information you need. Emergency services are provided by U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe. 

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Japan for information on U.S-Japan relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Embassy of Japan  website for the most current visa information.

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Entry & Exit:

• You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business "visa free" stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan.
• You cannot work on a 90-day "visa free" entry.
• "Visa free" entry status may not be changed to another visa status without departing and then re-entering Japan with the appropriate visa, such as a spouse, work, or study visa.
• Visit the Embassy of Japan website for the most current information on all visa categories.
• Japanese immigration officers may deny you entry if you appear to have no visible means of support. 
• All foreign nationals are required to provide fingerprint scans and to be photographed at the port of entry. Exceptions to this requirement include diplomatic and official visa holders, minors, and individuals covered under SOFA Article IX.2. For further information about landing procedures, please visit the  Immigration Bureau of Japan’s website . 
• Make sure your passport is valid. Note you cannot travel on a passport you have previously declared as lost or stolen even if you subsequently locate it. Japanese authorities will likely deny you entry into Japan if you attempt to do so. If you have reported your passport lost or stolen, you must apply for a new passport before travel.

Transiting Japan: 

• Ensure that your passport and visa are valid and up-to-date before you leave the United States. Passport services are not available at the airport.
• Airlines in Japan may deny you boarding for transit if you do not have the required travel documents for an onward destination in another country or if your passport does not have six months of validity remaining. For the entry requirements of the country you are traveling to, visit the  State Department's Country Specific Information  website.

Military/SOFA Travelers:  While active-duty U.S. military personnel may enter Japan under the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) with proper Department of Defense (DoD) identification and travel orders, all SOFA family members, civilian employees, and contractors must have valid passports to enter Japan. Please consult the  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide  before leaving the United States.

See  the Immigration Bureau of Japan’s website  for various immigration procedures.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:  The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Japan. 

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

For police services in Japan, dial 110. For fire or ambulance services, dial 119.

Crime:  Crime against U.S. citizens in Japan is generally low and usually involves personal disputes, theft, or vandalism. In addition:

• Robberies committed after a victim has been drugged from a spiked drink can occur, especially in nightlife districts.
• Sexual assaults are not often reported, but they do occur, and victims may be randomly targeted.  Victim's assistance resources or shelters are difficult for foreigners to access.
• Hate-related violent crimes rarely occur, although some U.S. citizens have reported being the target of discrimination because of their nationality or their race.
• Pick pocketing can occur in crowded shopping areas, on trains, and at airports.
• Police reports must be filed before leaving Japan, as Japanese police will not accept reports filed from overseas. 
• In instances involving credit card theft or fraud, Japanese police often provide a report number rather than a police report.  You can provide this report number to your credit card company to confirm the incident with the police.

Entertainment and Nightlife Districts in Tokyo: 

• Exercise caution in all entertainment and nightlife districts throughout Japan, especially Roppongi, Kabuki-cho, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro. 
• Incidents involving U.S. citizens in these areas include physical and sexual assaults, drug overdoses, theft of purses, wallets, cash and credit cards at bars or clubs, and drugs slipped into drinks. 
• Drink spiking at bars and entertainment venues, especially in areas such as Roppongi and Kabuki-cho, near Shinjuku, has led to robbery, physical and sexual assaults, and credit card fraud.  Some victims regain consciousness in the bar or club; other victims may awaken on the street or other unfamiliar locations.
• U.S. citizens have reported being threatened with gun or knife violence in such venues so that they will pay exorbitant bar tabs or withdraw money.  U.S. citizens have also reported being beaten when they have refused to pay or hand over money.
• There have been reports of U.S. citizens being forcibly taken to ATMs and robbed, or made to withdraw funds after being unable to pay exorbitant bar tabs.
• Please be aware that Roppongi, Kabuki-cho, and other entertainment and nightlife districts have also been the scenes of violence between criminal syndicates. 

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams. 

Police reports must be filed at the nearest police station prior to departure from Japan. The Japanese police cannot accept reports filed from overseas. Report crimes to the local police at 110 and contact the U.S. Embassy at 03-3224-5000 (011-81-3-3224-5000 from overseas).  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care;
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms;
• provide a list of local attorneys;
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home; and/or
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Contacting Police, Fire and Ambulance Services:  You can reach the police throughout Japan by dialing 110. Fire and ambulance services can be contacted by dialing 119.  Note that English-speaking dispatchers may not be available. Please review advice on  “Calling for Help” on our  website . If you need assistance, you should be able to describe your address/location in Japanese or find someone who can do so, since few police officers speak English.

Domestic Violence:  Victim's assistance resources or battered women's shelters exist in major urban areas, but are difficult for foreigners to access. These types of resources are also generally unavailable in rural areas. Investigations of sexual assault crimes are often conducted without female police officers present, and police typically ask about the victim's sexual history and previous relationships.

Tourism:  The Victim's assistance resources or battered women's shelters exist in major urban areas, but are difficult for foreigners to access. These types of resources are also generally unavailable in rural areas. Investigations of sexual assault crimes are often conducted without female police officers present, and police typically ask about the victim's sexual history and previous relationships.

See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to Japanese law while you are in Japan. If you violate Japanese laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, imprisoned, or deported. If you are arrested in Japan,  even for a minor offense , you may be held in detention without bail for several months or more during the investigation and legal proceedings.

Some offences are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of Japanese law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

The vast majority of arrests of U.S. citizens in Japan are for drug-related offenses. Japanese authorities aggressively pursue drug smugglers and users, including recreational users with sophisticated detection equipment, "sniffing" dogs, blood tests, “stop and frisk” tactics, and other methods. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking a drug that is illegal in Japan are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and fines. Please note that some drugs which may be legal in certain jurisdictions outside of Japan, including marijuana and synthetic drugs, remain illegal in Japan. This also applies to certain prescription drugs that doctors in the United States may prescribe.  Japanese law makes no distinction between medical and recreational marijuana; therefore, having a prescription for medical marijuana will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. Even possession of a small amount of marijuana for personal medical or recreational use can result in a long jail sentence and fine. Japanese customs officials carefully screen incoming packages, and individuals who are mailed drugs can be arrested and prosecuted as drug traffickers.   

Confiscation of Prescription Drugs and Other Medication:  It is important to note that some medications that are routinely prescribed in the United States, including Adderall and marijuana, are strictly prohibited in Japan. The Japanese government decides which medications may be imported legally into Japan. The Embassy and Consulates of Japan in the United States have limited information available and do not have a comprehensive list of specific medications or ingredients. Please see more  information on importing medicines  into Japan.

You must carry your U.S. passport or Japanese Residence Card (Zairyu Kado) with you at all times. In Japan, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport or Japanese residence card to show your identity and status in Japan (e.g., as a visitor, student, worker, or permanent resident).

It is illegal to work in Japan while in tourist or visa-waiver status. Overstaying your visa or working illegally may lead to fines of several thousands of dollars, and in some cases, re-entry bans as long as 10 years, or indefinitely for drug offenders. For additional information, please see  Japan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act  and contact the  Japanese Embassy  or nearest Japanese Consulate in the United States for more information.

Driving under the influence of alcohol could also land you immediately in jail. The blood-alcohol limit in Japan is 0.03%. Punishments can be up to 10,000 USD in fines and up to five years in prison.

Possession of a gun or ammunition is a crime in Japan. Carrying a knife with a locking blade, or a folding blade that is longer than 5.5 cm (a little more than two inches), is illegal in Japan. U.S. citizens and U.S. military personnel have been arrested and detained for more than 10 days for carrying pocket knives that are legal in the United States but illegal in Japan. The possession of lock-picking tools is illegal in Japan.

Establishing a Business : Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

A  list of English-speaking lawyers  located throughout Japan is available on our  website .

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See the Department of State’s webpage  and the Embassy’s  website  for additional information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice’s website for more information .

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI+ events in Japan.

Laws governing rape, sexual commerce, and other activity involving sexual relations do not apply to same-sex sexual activity. This leads to lower penalties for perpetrators of same-sex rape and sexual assault and greater legal ambiguity surrounding same-sex prostitution.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Japan prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities. Japanese disability laws require the public sector to provide reasonable accommodations and the private sector to make best efforts in employment, education, access to health care, or the provision of other services; however, there are no penalties for noncompliance. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.

Although Japan’s accessibility laws mandate that new construction projects for public use include provisions for persons with disabilities, older buildings are not likely to have been retrofitted for accessibility. At major train stations, airports, and hotels, travelers with disabilities should encounter few accessibility problems. Note that many smaller stations are inaccessible to those who cannot climb stairs. Information on travel in Japan for travelers with disabilities is available at  Accessible Japan .

Travelers with disabilities can learn more about resources available in country from the Japan National Tourism Organization’s  traveling with a disability page .

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Conditions at Prisons and Detention Facilities:  Japanese prisons and detention facilities maintain internal order through a regime of very strict discipline.  U.S. citizen prisoners often complain of stark, austere living conditions and psychological isolation.  Heating in winter can be inadequate in some facilities, food portions can be significantly smaller than what many may be accustomed to, and access to specialized medical care, particularly mental health care, at detention facilities and prisons is sometimes limited. Additional  information on arrests in Japan  is available on our embassy website.

Customs Regulations:  Please contact the Japanese Embassy or nearest Japanese consulate in the United States, or  visit the Japanese Customs website  for specific information regarding import restrictions and customs requirements.

Japanese customs authorities encourage the use of an Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission (ATA) Carnet in order to temporarily import professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and trade fairs into Japan.  For additional information, please call (212) 354-4480, or  email the U.S. CIB  for details.

Pets:  The Japanese  Animal Quarantine Service  (AQS) sets procedures for importing pets. At a minimum, the process will take seven to eight months, though the process can take up to a year before a pet may enter Japan. Advance planning is critical. You can find more information about  importing a pet into Japan  or information about  exporting a pet from Japan  on our  Embassy website.

Employment Issues:  U.S. citizens should not come to Japan to work without having the proper employment visa arranged ahead of time. Teaching English, even privately, and serving as hosts/hostesses are both considered "work" in Japan and are illegal without the proper visa.

Some U.S.-based employment agencies and Japanese employers do not fully or correctly represent the true nature of employment terms and conditions. A minimum requirement for effectively seeking the protection of Japanese labor law is a written and signed work contract. If there is no signed contract, Japanese authorities are not able to act on behalf of foreign workers. If you are coming to Japan to work, carefully review your contract and the history and reputation of your Japanese employer before traveling to Japan. Complaints against U.S.-based employment agencies or recruiters may be directed to the  Better Business Bureau  or the Office of the Attorney General in the relevant state(s).

Disaster Preparedness : Japan is prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, and landslides. See the  Embassy’s  webpage for recommendations and steps you can take to prepare for an emergency. The Japan Tourism Organization’s  Safety Tips app  and  NHK World app  provide Japanese government emergency “J-Alerts” to your cell phone in English through push notifications. “J-Alerts” can provide early warning emergency alerts on earthquakes predicted in a specific area, sometimes seconds before an earthquake hits. 

Radiation: Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant : The Government of Japan continues to closely monitor the conditions at and around the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. You should comply with all travel restrictions and cautions put into place by the Government of Japan for areas surrounding the plant. For more information, contact the  Japan Nuclear Regulation Authority .

For police service in Japan, dial 110. For fire or ambulance, dial 119.

Ambulance services are widely available but receiving hospitals may decline to accept inbound patients unless they can provide proof of funds to pay for services.

COVID-19 Testing:

• Travelers should contact Japanese local health providers to determine the location of testing facilities within Japan. A non-comprehensive list of some COVID-19 testing facilities can be found here on the Embassy website.

COVID-19 Vaccines:

• The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Japan.
• Review the Government of Japan’s  English language website  on COVID-19 vaccinations in Japan.
• Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States. 

The Department of State does not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Some care providers in Japan only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  Japan’s Ministry of Health website to ensure the medication is legal in Japan; possession, use, or importation of a prescription drug that is illegal in Japan may result in arrest and criminal prosecution. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. U.S. prescriptions are not honored in Japan, so if you need ongoing prescription medicine, you should arrive with a sufficient supply for your stay in Japan or enough until you are able to see a local care provider.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Japan has a national health insurance system which is available only to those foreigners with long-term visas for Japan. National health insurance does not pay for medical evacuation. Medical caregivers in Japan may require payment in full at the time of treatment or concrete proof of ability to pay before they will treat a foreigner who is not a member of the national health insurance plan.

U.S.-style and standard psychological and psychiatric care can be difficult to locate outside of major urban centers in Japan and generally is not available outside of Japan's major cities. Extended psychiatric care can be very difficult to obtain.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Driving in Japan can be complicated and expensive. Traffic moves on the left side of the road. Those who cannot read the language will have trouble understanding road signs. Highway tolls can be very high, and city traffic is often very congested. A 20-mile trip in the Tokyo area may take two hours. There is virtually no legal roadside or curbside parking; however, traffic is commonly blocked or partially blocked by those illegally parked curbside. In mountainous areas, roads are often closed during the winter, and cars should be equipped with tire chains. Roads in Japan are much narrower than those in the United States.

Traffic Laws : Japanese law provides that all drivers in Japan are held liable in the event of an accident, and assesses fault in an accident on all parties. Japanese compulsory insurance (JCI) is mandatory for all automobile owners and drivers in Japan. Most short-term visitors choose not to drive in Japan. Turning right or left on red lights is not permitted in Japan, and all passengers are required to fasten their seat belts.

Japan has a national 0.03 percent blood-alcohol-level standard for driving, and drivers stopped for driving under the influence of intoxicants will have their licenses confiscated. If you are found guilty of driving under the influence, speeding, or blatantly careless driving resulting in injury, you are subject to up to 15 years in prison. 

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. The National Police Agency (NPA) oversees the administration and enforcement of traffic laws in Japan. You can find further information in English on the  NPA English website . Information about roadside assistance, rules of the road, and obtaining a Japanese driver's license is available in English from the  Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) web site . See  the Japan National Tourism Organization’s website for car rental and driving in Japan.

Emergency Assistance : For roadside assistance, please contact the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) at 03-5730-0111 in Tokyo, 072-645-0111 in Osaka, 011-857-8139 in Sapporo, 092-841-5000 in Fukuoka, or 098-877-9163 in Okinawa.

International Driving Permits (IDPs):  An international driving permit (IDP) issued in the United States by the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is required of short-term visitors who drive in Japan. You must obtain an IDP issued in your country of residence prior to arriving in Japan. The U.S. Embassy andU.S. consulates do not issue IDPs. IDPs issued via the Internet and/or by other organizations are not valid in Japan. 

Foreign residents in Japan who use an IDP may be fined or arrested. In practice, the term “resident” involves more than simply visa status or length of stay in Japan and is determined by the police. In short, a driver license from country outside Japan is not a substitute for a valid Japanese license for foreign residents. See the U.S. Embassy’s  website  for more information on driving in Japan.

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Japan’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Japan’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel : Mariners planning travel to Japan should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts  in the Alerts section of the Embassy’s messages. Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) broadcast warnings website portal  select “broadcast warnings.”

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Japan . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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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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Temporary Visitor Visa

Who can use a temporary visitor visa, temporary visitors for business.

(1) The visa application form (see Documentation #1 below). (2) A valid passport (see Documentation #2 below). (3) A photo (see Documentation #3 below). (4) A certificate of completion of registration for the ERFS.

Additional documents may be requested.

Temporary Visitors Visiting Relatives or Acquaintances (*) *Only those who are deemed to have a relationship equivalent to relatives (betrothed or common-law marriage) or those who are deemed to have a need to visit Japan (to attend a wedding or funeral or to visit an acquaintance who is ill).

Visa Exemption

U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries which have a reciprocal visa exemption arrangement with Japan may be eligible to visit Japan without a visa for a short-term stay for the activities allowed to Temporary Visitors. For more information about reciprocal visa exemption arrangements, please click here . Important Notice ：Border enforcement measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

Documentation

Please be aware that we will decline applications that have incomplete documents. Each Temporary Visitor Visa applicant must submit the following documents: * Consulate General of Japan will not make copies. If you need original documents, please bring the original plus one copy.

• An application form completed and signed. Blank forms are available at Japanese consular offices. You can also download by clicking on visa application form ( Sample ) in PDF format. Chinese citizens must write their names in Chinese characters, as well as in Roman letters. Korean citizens in principle are asked to write their names in Chinese characters, as well as in Roman letters. Please include your e-mail address and contact phone information. An applicant with an arrest or criminal record must provide a copy of his/her court and/or arrest record (including cases that ended with an acquittal or pardon), along with an English translation of those documents if they are in any language other than English. Even if the case did not go to trial, please provide a letter that explains in detail the circumstances surrounding the arrest. We would like to know about the charges, time served, fees paid, and probation (if any).
• Valid passport ( original plus one photo copy of the face page) with sufficient space for a visa (This means at least one empty, blank visa page. US passports use the rear pages for amendments, and are not acceptable as blank visa pages ). If you already have a valid Japanese visa in your passport, please include a signed consent form as shown in the sample at this link: http://www.ny.us.emb-japan.go.jp/en/d/Consent.pdf . If you submit a PERMIT TO REENTER THE UNITED STATES or a REFUGEE TRAVEL DOCUMENT issued by the U.S. government, it must have a validity date at least six months beyond the date of visa application.
• A passport-sized photograph: 2-inch x 1.4-inch photograph on glossy photo paper taken within the last six months with plain background. Photograph may be attached to the application form with glue (not tape or staples) or you may submit the photograph unattached.
• Green Card or valid I-94 and U.S. resident visa to re-enter the United States (F or J visa holder must show an I-20 or DS-2019 with the valid signature of an appropriate official in order for re-entry). If you will be entering a third country after leaving Japan, you must show a valid visa to enter that country (or a national passport of that country). We ask that all applicants submit their original immigration documents (green card, I-20, etc.) or a NOTARIZED copy of the documents. * Please note: In principle we do not accept an application from B-1 and B-2 U.S. visa status holders.
• A confirmed reservation record of your round-trip flight to/from Japan. An e-ticket or print-out from a travel agency, airline or travel website is acceptable. The print-out should include: -Your name. -Your confirmation number/record locator. -Your airlines, flights and all departure and destination cities. -Your complete round-trip flight itinerary, starting and ending in the US. This should include all of the countries you are visiting other than Japan, if applicable. * Please note: We do not require the purchase of tickets, but we do require a confirmed reservation. We are not responsible for tickets which may be unusable due to the delay or denial of a visa. For those with non-revenue ticket holders: a) Actual Non-Revenue ticket (original plus copy of all pages), plus a printed entire flight information from the airline company b) A copy of the employee ID of the airline employee who obtained the flight coupon, or a letter from the airline proving the employee works for the airline, and that the applicant is authorized to use the non-revenue ticket
• If traveling for BUSINESS, original letter from applicant’s company signed by an authorized executive officer, on company letterhead, stating: a) applicant’s position in the company, duration of employment, and monthly or annual salary b) nature/purpose of visit in detail c) dates/duration of stay intended d) contact person, company name, address and phone number of business contact in Japan e) guarantee of financial support during applicant’s stay in Japan and return transportation from Japan * Additional documents may be requested during the course of examination.
• If going to attend a CONFERENCE, conference brochures plus a paid registration form and invitation will be required. In addition, a letter from the home institution/company giving the circumstances of the trip as in 6.a ) ～ 6.c ) from the visa applicant’s home institution/company, plus the applicant’s financial resources such as listed on 8.a) will be required.

Visa Fees Visa fees are determined according to reciprocal arrangements between Japan and the country of the applicant's nationality. Click here for Visa Fees.

Processing Time Please refer to our introduction page .

Applications by mail Please refer to our introduction page .

Note for Chinese nationals In general, Japanese Embassy/Consulates in China are not accepting Japanese tourist visa applications from Chinese nationals residing in other countries, and if you are planning to sightsee in Japan during your temporary stay in China or on the way back to the US, we recommend applying for a Japanese visa before leaving the US.

Note for Nationals of India Click here for outline of application procedures for Multiple Entry VISA ( English / Japanese )

Note for Nationals of Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam Click here for outline of application procedures for Multiple Entry VISA ( English / Japanese )

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Japan Tourist Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Published: March 18, 2024

A Japanese tourist visa is required for all non-visa-exempt nationalities and those who are not eligible for eVisa. Japan tourist visa application can only be lodged in person at a Japanese embassy in your country of nationality or residence.

Quick summary:

• Who requires it: Foreign nationals that are not visa-exempt
• Validity: 3 months, single-entry
• Allowed stay: up to 90 days
• Extensions: not allowed
• Processing time: 5 business days
• Fee: 3000 JPY or less

Read the Japan Visa Guide for more general advice about available visas for tourists, eligibility, and procedures.

Table of Contents

Understanding japan tourist visa.

Tourist visa validity

Japan single entry visa is valid for 3 months. You cannot extend this period of validity and if you change your passport before you use it, you must apply for a new visa.

Duration of stay

In most cases, the duration of allowed stay inside Japan is 90 days. In some cases, it can be lower, about 15 or 30 days.

Allowed number of entries

The standard Japanese tourist visa is a single entry only.

Multiple entry tourist visas are also issued but only to select nationalities with additional requirements.

Allowed ports of entry

With a Japanese tourist visa, you can enter Japan at any international airport or seaport.

When to apply

The processing time is 5 business days after the visa application is deemed complete by the receiving embassy. This can in turn take a few extra days or even up to 2 weeks.

It can take even longer if additional documents are requested from you or your application is sent for further review. Apply well in advance to ensure you receive the visa before your travel dates.

• Earliest : 3 months before traveling
• Latest : 2 weeks before traveling

Tourist visa extension

Extensions are not possible for either visa validity or allowed duration of stay.

Benefits of Japan tourist visa

Japan tourist visa offers VISA-FREE access to 14 countries. Read the VISA-FREE countries for Japan visa for more details.

Japan Tourist Visa Requirements

Who requires a tourist visa

The following nationalities require a tourist visa to travel to Japan

• Nationalities that are NOT visa-exempt (currently, 70 countries are visa-exempt)
• Nationals that are NOT eligible for Japan eVisa (currently, nationals and residents of 14 countries are eligible for eVisa)

North Korean nationals are not eligible for Japanese visas and are always denied entry.

Documents required

The following are the required documents for a Japan single entry visa for individual tourists (not on organized tours through travel agencies):

• Passport valid for the duration of stay
• One passport-size photo
• Completed Visa Application Form (use Adobe Acrobat Reader to fill out the Visa application form digitally, then print it and stick the passport photo)
• Confirmation of reservation of tickets (air or sea) both to and from Japan OR Information about the planned schedule of flight or cruise, including entry and departure dates both to and from Japan
• Proof of sufficient funds – certificate of income or tax statement AND bank statement
• Travel Itinerary plus any tickets or leaflets supporting your travel plans

The documents may vary depending on the receiving embassy and you may be requested to submit additional ones.

NOTE There are minor differences in the required documents for independent tourists from China, Russia, CIS countries, Georgia, and the Philippines. These are listed below.

Chinese travelers

Generally, Chinese tourists visiting Japan come on tours organized by authorized travel agencies.

As an independent Chinese traveler, it is possible to obtain a tourist visa for Japan if you have sufficient financial capability.

You must prepare your own travel itinerary in advance and approach an approved Chinese travel agency to facilitate and lodge the visa application for you. There is currently no way to apply at a Japanese embassy in China independently.

The period of stay granted for tourist visas to Chinese nationals is usually 15 or 30 days.

Travelers from Russia, CIS Countries, and Georgia

Independent tourists from any of the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries, Russia, or Georgia traveling to Japan, can obtain a single-entry visa.

The required documents are more or less the same as for other countries but you must submit 2 Visa Application Forms and 2 photos.

Travelers from the Philippines

In addition to the general document requirements, you must also submit:

• Birth certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (PSA) on security paper. If the certificate is illegible, crumpled, or parts of it are missing, also submit a birth certificate from the local government.
• Marriage certificate (if married)

Photo requirements

The passport photo must meet the following requirements.

• Taken within the last 6 months
• Must be of size 45mm x 35mm
• In color against a plain white background
• Taken looking straight forward and face visible clearly
• On a good quality paper

Tourist visa fee

The fee for the Japan tourist visa is 3000 JPY payable in the local currency of the embassy where you apply.

Visa fees may be lower for some countries.

Online payment for the visa fee is not possible.

Crucially, you don’t need to pay the visa fees when you apply. You will pay only if your Japan visa is approved. Japan is one of the few countries in the world that charge visa application fees after the visa is issued and don’t charge for unsuccessful applications.

Processing time

The processing time is 5 business days. 

However, this period starts after the embassy confirms that your application is complete which is known to take a few days or longer.

In reality, you can expect your visa to be issued within 2 weeks in most cases.

Japan Tourist Visa Application Process

How to apply for a Japan tourist visa

You must apply at a Japanese Embassy or Consulate General with jurisdiction over the area where you live or the one with jurisdiction over the country in which your passport is issued.

Effectively, this means that you must apply in the embassy in your own country or the country where you are legally a resident . 

If there is no Japanese embassy in your country, see which embassy nearby has jurisdiction over your country – it’s usually the closest one in a neighboring country. Check the Japanese embassies and consulates around the world.

Applying for Japan tourist visa at the embassy is usually a 5 step process.

Step 1: Gather all the necessary documents.

Step 2: Apply in person at the Japanese embassy.

Step 3: Remain available to reach – the embassy may request additional documents or an in-person interview.

Step 4: If your application is successful and your visa issued, go back to the embassy to collect your passport

Step 5: Pay the visa fee in cash in the local currency

If your application is rejected, you won’t be able to apply for a tourist visa again for the next 6 months unless there are major changes to your circumstances. There are no other penalties and there is no fee to be paid.

How to contact the Japanese embassy or consulate

Check the website of your Japanese embassy . They have methods of contact listed on their websites.

Alternatively, reach out to the Japan visa information hotline at [email protected] with your nationality or residence and inquiry.

Entry Procedure at the Border

Regardless of the border you enter Japan at, your flight origin, or your nationality, the entry procedure in Japan is pretty much always the same.

The border officer will check that you meet all requirements, including that your visa is valid, your purpose for entering Japan, and the planned length of your stay. 

Assuming everything is in order, the officer will grant you “landing permission” by affixing a seal of verification for landing in your passport. At this point your visa expires and you are allowed to stay in Japan for up to 90 days (or as much as provided in your visa).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is japan visa easy to get.

The Japanese tourist visa is one of the easiest to obtain. There are relatively few required documents, no mandatory interviews, and a high success rate.

If you submit a complete and honest application, the chances of visa approval are high.

Can I apply for a Japan visa online?

Japan also has an eVisa system in place but it’s available only to certain travelers.

You can apply for a Japan visa online (eVisa) if you are a legal resident of Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, UAE, the UK or the USA.

A legal resident can be anyone residing in those countries on a student visa, work visa, residence permit, etc.

What is the minimum bank balance for Japan tourist visa?

There is no official guideline for the minimum required bank balance but a rule of thumb is to have at least 100 USD for each day of intended stay in Japan.

For example, if you submit an itinerary for a 15-day trip to Japan, you should show a minimum of 1,500 USD balance in your bank account.

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 SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

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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Japan Visa Requirements

Entry requirements for japan.

Japan has visa exemption agreements with 68 countries . Travelers from several countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia as well as many former Soviet Union nations are required to obtain a visa to Japan .

There are a few entry requirements for Japan that must be considered when planning a trip to the country.

Japan Entry Visa Requirements

Foreign visitors who need a visa to travel to Japan must meet the following Japan tourist visa requirements .

• A valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
• A completed and signed visa application form
• A recent photograph , size 4.5 x 4.5 cm, in color and with a white background
• An official birth certificate or a certified copy
• If the traveler is married, it is necessary to submit a marriage certificate issued within one year
• Schedule and travel plans in Japan

Visitors who are required to apply for a Japan visa should verify that they meet all the necessary requirements . It is essential to have a valid passport and complete the visa application form with the details exactly as they are on the passport.

The period of time to stay in Japan is differs from 15 days to 90 days, depending on the nationality of the passport traveler. All the other travelers are required to visit the nearest Japanese diplomatic mission and apply for a visa before departure.

Citizens of the following countries are required a tourist visa for Japan:

• Central African Republic
• Cote D'Ivoire
• Congo, The Democratic Republic of the
• Marshall Islands
• Moldova, Republic of
• Palestinian Territory
• Russian Federation
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Solomon Islands
• Syrian Arab Republic
• Timor-Leste

Japan entry requirements for citizens from visa exempt countries require that travelers carry a passport, valid for at least the proposed duration of their stay.

Other Requirements to visit Japan

There are some additional Japan visa requirements that foreign travelers need to take into account when submitting their application at a Japanese mission.

Some travelers have a sponsor or guarantor that will support the Japan visa application. A sponsor is a person that, under the visa conditions, will cover the expenses of the person applying for a visa.

If the traveler does not have a sponsor or guarantor for their trip to Japan it is necessary to demonstrate that they can cover the expenses of their stay. In order to do this, it is necessary to submit the following:

• Bank certificate, issued within the last 3 months
• Applicant’s income tax return

In the case that the traveler has a sponsor or guarantor it is necessary to provide:

• Guarantee letter where the relation between the traveler and the sponsor is explained and the details of the sponsor or guarantor must be included
• Proof of relationship with the guarantor
• Bank certificated and income tax return of the sponsor/guarantor

For questions or inquires about how to apply for a tourist visa to Japan, it is advised to contact the Japanese embassy or consulate.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Japan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Japanese Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Japan.

Travel in Japan

There are no official COVID-19 restrictions on travel, dining out or other activities. However, the Japanese government still recommends social distancing, mask wearing and other basic precautions. Public compliance with these recommendations is high.

Passport validity requirements   

If you’re visiting Japan, your passport must be valid for the length of your stay. No additional period of validity is required.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Visa requirements

If you have a ‘British citizen’ passport, you can travel to Japan for tourism or business for up to 90 days. You will get a visa in your passport on arrival, and you do not need to apply before you travel. The Japanese immigration authorities may extend your visa by another 90 days at their discretion. You will need to apply for an extension.

If you have another type of British passport, you must get a visa.

To stay longer (to work or study, for or for other reasons), you must meet the Japanese government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Japanese Embassy in the UK .

It is illegal to work in Japan without the correct visa however informal or temporary the work.

If you overstay your permission to remain in Japan, you risk arrest, detention and a heavy fine.

For residency information, see the Japanese Immigration Services Agency website and living in Japan .

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Japan guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Japan . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

It is illegal to bring meat products (including sausages, bacon and ham) to Japan without permission from the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service . Penalties include a heavy fine and prison sentence.

Whale meat is available in Japan but importing it into the UK and EU is illegal. If you import whale meat to the UK, you can get a fine of up to £5,000 and a prison sentence. Customs officers will seize the meat.

Taking money into Japan  

People mainly use cash in Japan.

You may have difficulty using credit and debit cards issued outside Japan. Cirrus, Maestro, Link and Delta cash cards are not widely accepted. Japanese post offices, 7-Eleven stores and JP Post Bank have cash machines that will accept some foreign cards during business hours.

Check with your bank before travelling and take alternative sources of money.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Japan travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: June 6, 2024 08:02 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, japan - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Japan.

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Fukushima nuclear power plant and surrounding area

Following the 2011 incident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, Japanese authorities have placed restrictions, including travel and overnight stay bans, on the plant's surrounding area due to the risk of exposure to radiation. Restricted areas are clearly identified.

Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Assistance of Residents Affected by the Nuclear Incidents – Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

Tensions on Korean Peninsula

The regional security situation on the neighbouring Korean Peninsula could deteriorate suddenly. Tensions may increase before, during and after North Korean nuclear and missile tests. Military exercises and activities may also escalate tension.

• Remain vigilant
• Monitor developments to stay informed on the current situation
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including the Cabinet Secretariat's guidance on civil protection

Cabinet Secretariat Civil Protection Portal

Crime against foreigners is generally low. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs from time to time. Be cautious in entertainment and nightlife districts throughout Japan, especially in these four in Tokyo:

If you are the victim of a crime, file a police report at the closest station of the incident. Occasionally, local police may be hesitant to prepare a report for foreigners. If this happens, contact the Embassy of Canada to Japan for assistance.

Drug trafficking

An increasing number of travellers report having been used as unwitting drug couriers.

Penalties for drug-related criminal activities are severe. Even unsuspecting individuals transporting packages containing narcotics can be criminally charged and face long jail sentences.

Be wary of individuals, even those you know, who ask you to carry a package to Japan on their behalf.

Useful links

Drugs, alcohol and travel

• International Drug Smuggling Scams

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

There are reports of incidents where staff, or other customers at bars and nightclubs, have mixed drugs and copious amounts of alcohol into drinks of unsuspecting clients. These incidents are particularly frequent in the districts of Kabukicho and Roppongi in Tokyo. The intend is usually to defraud, overcharge services, rob or assault the person.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. There have been incidents of overcharging at bars and clubs. Disputes over overcharging have led to violence.

Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements and contact your financial institution as soon as possible if irregularities

Overseas fraud

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Inappropriate physical contact may occur on busy subways and trains. There are women-only train cars during rush hour on some subway and train lines.

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are generally good throughout the country. However, roads may be narrow.

Japan Road Traffic Information Center (in Japanese)

Public transportation

Taxis are generally safe.

• Use only officially marked taxis
• Negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged
• Have your destination written in Japanese as drivers may not understand English

Taxis in Japan – Japan National Tourism Organization

Train and subway

Travel by subway and train is quick and convenient. Signs are usually in Japanese but signage in English is becoming more common, especially in larger cities and at tourist destinations.

General safety information

Emergency information and advice for tourists is available from the Japan National Tourism Organization .

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Japanese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Japan. If you plan to travel to other countries in the region, check passport validity requirements for the countries you plan to visit.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to a maximum of 90 days Business visa: required Work visa: required Student visa: required 

You can’t apply for a business, work or student visa if you have already entered Japan as a tourist.

Business travellers need a visa if they are to receive compensation in addition to their regular salary for work carried out while in Japan.

Overstaying the 90-day, tourist visa-free limit or any other visa time limit is a criminal offence. If you overstay, you may be subject to fines and deportation, and you may be barred from re-entry to Japan.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket, confirmed accommodations arrangements and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Japanese officials will photograph and fingerprint visitors upon arrival. Exceptions may apply.

Immigration Services Agency of Japan

Registration

Japanese regulations require that visiting foreigners give detailed information when checking in at hotels or other lodging facilities.

Foreigners must also allow their passports to be photocopied.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is very good. Service is available throughout the country.

Services in English could be limited, especially in rural areas. The cost of health-care services is similar to Canada. As a foreigner, you will likely have to pay in advance or provide a document proving that the bill will be paid prior to discharge.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Health insurance for foreign workers

As a Canadian working in Japan, you must have medical and health services coverage for the duration of your stay. If not provided by your Japanese employer, you must subscribe to the national health insurance plan.

If you need to consult medical professionals, the following organizations can refer you to medical facilities with English and other foreign language-speaking staff:

• Guide for when you are feeling ill – Japan National Tourism Organization
• Medical information net  (NABII) – Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare 
• AMDA International Medical Information Center

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

In many cases, arrested or detained suspects are denied oral or written communication with anyone other than their lawyer or a Canadian consular representative for an extended period.

If you are detained, even for a minor offence, you may be held without charge for up to 23 days. Police officers may begin their initial questioning before you see a lawyer. You could also be in detention for weeks or months during the investigation and legal proceedings.

• Overview of the criminal law system in Japan
• Arrest and detention

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Japan has a zero-tolerance policy with respect to drugs, including recreational drugs and cannabis. Severe penalties are imposed for the possession of even a small quantity.

Medications

Certain medications are banned in Japan, including:

• amphetamines
• methamphetamines
• pseudoephedrine

You may bring a one-month supply of prescription medication or a two-month supply of non-prescription medication into Japan, as long as the medication does not contain narcotics (including codeine). You cannot bring banned substances with you, even with a prescription.

You must have a doctor’s note that states your full name, address, the reason for use, and dosage, along with your prescribed medication. Local authorities may also request a detailed listing of the contents of the medication.

If you wish to bring in larger supplies of medication or bring in prescription medication that contains narcotics, you must apply in advance for import certification. You should do so several months prior to arrival.

Bringing medicines for personal use into Japan – Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Japanese law doesn't prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Japan.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Japan, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

If you acquire 2 or more citizenships at birth, you can keep them all, including Japanese citizenship, until the age of 18. At 18, you must choose between your Japanese citizenship or other citizenships within a 2-year period.

Japanese family law is different from Canadian family law.

In Japan, joint custody of a child after separation is not a legal option if one of the parents is a Japanese national. As a result, access rights for a non-custodial parent can be limited, if granted.

If you are involved in a custody or other family law dispute in Japan, consult a Japanese family lawyer.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Japan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Japan, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Japanese court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Japan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Identification

You must carry your passport or residence card at all times.

A photocopy will not satisfy authorities. Police officers in Japan may ask for your identification documents at any time.

If you fail to do so, you could face arrest or detention.

Working in Japan

Working without an appropriate visa is illegal. Offenders may be subject to imprisonment, a fine and deportation.

If you are considering employment offers in Japan, contact the Japanese embassy or consulate nearest you before coming to Japan.

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Teaching English

You should carefully review a contract to teach English before you sign. There have been incidents of employers not adhering to their contractual obligations. 

Ensure that all terms and conditions of employment are clearly stated in the contract and that you meet all requirements before accepting an offer.  

More on teaching English in Japan

You may be denied entry to public establishments such as swimming pools, hot springs, beaches and some gyms if you have a tattoo.

Some establishments may ask that you cover your tattoo.

Traffic drives on the left.

You must carry an international driving permit along with your Canadian licence, or a Japanese driver’s licence.

International Driving Permit

You must also obtain Japanese insurance. There are two types of driving insurance available:

• compulsory insurance, which is basic government-mandated insurance covering your legal liability
• voluntary insurance, obtained on your own from a private company and designed for your needs

Should you have an accident, compulsory insurance may not be sufficient.

Drinking and driving

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe.

Under Japanese law, it’s forbidden to:

• drive if you have been drinking
• lend a car to someone who has been drinking
• serve alcohol to someone who has to drive

If you are a passenger in a car whose driver is under the influence of alcohol, you both are subject to prosecution.

The currency of Japan is the yen (JPY).

Credit cards are accepted in most major hotels and restaurants, but Japan is a predominantly cash-based society.

ATMs are widely available, but many don’t accept foreign debit cards.

Typhoons usually occur between June and October. During this period, even small storms can quickly develop into major typhoons. Southern areas, including Okinawa and surrounding islands, are more vulnerable.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to Japan during the typhoon season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Japan Meteorological Agency

Seismic activity

Japan is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to a multitude of natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, volcanic eruptions. Strong earthquakes occur, as well as tsunamis.

Earthquakes

Each year, Japan experiences thousands of earthquakes of varying magnitudes, some triggering tsunamis. Deaths, injuries and significant damage may occur.

Earthquakes  - Government of Canada

Japan is prone to tsunamis. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

There are a number of active volcanoes. The Japan Meteorological Agency lists active volcanoes and associated warnings.

If you are travelling near a volcano, check for the latest activity and warnings. Always follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.

Volcanic alert levels and warnings  - Japan Meteorological Agency

Seasonal risks

Snowstorms occur in western Honshu and Hokkaido from December to March.

Avalanches can occur in mountainous areas, including at ski resorts. These can cause power disruptions, make roads impassable and limit the ability of responders to reach these areas in case of emergency.

• Information in case of natural disasters  - Japan National Tourism Organization

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 110
• medical assistance: 119
• firefighters: 119

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Japan, in Tokyo, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

When calling from within Japan, the area code is preceded by a 0. There is no 0 when calling from outside Japan. If placing a call to a cellular phone number, you do not need to enter the code.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Japan Visa

Do I need a Visa for Japan? Japan Visa Policy

There are a number of different types of Japanese visas which are designed by the Japanese government for different purposes and lengths of time.

There are over 60 countries whose citizens can enter visa-free for tourism or business. Other nationalities currently need to go to a Japanese embassy or consulate to apply for a visa.

Japan introduced an eVisa for citizens of the US and Canada in 2022 that simplified the application process to acquire a Japan visa during pandemic visa suspensions.

Canadians and Americans no longer need a visa for Japan for short stays, but the eVisa is expected to launch for other visa-required nationalities in the near future.

Japan visa types

There are several  types of visas for Japan and more will be introduced in the future, including the eVisa.

Visas are obtained directly from Japanese embassies and consulates, although the application process for the eVisa will be completed entirely online.

Japanese visas can be grouped in 3 main categories :

Working visa

Non-working visa.

• Family Related Visas

Working visas are considered long-term stay visas  and cover the kind of work that requires high-level professional knowledge or skills and ‘thus, they do not include simple labor tasks. Jobs like waiter, construction workers, sales people, etc. cannot obtain a working visa. Typical working visas:

• Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, International Services Engineer. Engineers and Specialists in Humanities must have a university degree in their corresponding fields or 10 years of professional experience. International Services Engineers must have 3 years of professional experience in their field.
• Intra-company Transferee. This status applies to expats of foreign companies or the subsidiary companies of Japanese firms located overseas who have worked more than one year in the said office in overseas.
• Skilled Labor. Jobs involving foreign cooking, architecture, or civil engineering characteristic to foreign countries, training animals, instructing sports, sommeliers, processing precious stones will fall into this status. It’s mandatory to have at least 3 years of professional experience in the field.
• Business Manager. Those who are going to start a business or invest into a business in Japan. It also applies to those managing business on behalf of investors.
• Highly-Skilled Professional. This visa aims to attract workers who are likely to contribute to the Japanese economy.

Those with a certain status, knowledge, or skills can get the following working visas:

• Diplomats or Officials, Personnel of the embassies and consular offices, Diplomatic missions, Government personnel and their families.
• Research and education at university or equivalent educational institutions.
• Instruction of foreign languages or other education at elementary schools, high schools, etc. Those instructors looking to work in private language schools must apply for the Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa.
• For those whose artistic activities provide enough income to support their living in Japan.
• Religious activities. Missionaries sent to Japan from foreign religious organizations.
• Those journalists who have signed contracts with foreign media organizations. It includes freelance journalists.
• Legal and Accounting services.
• Medical Services. Medical specialists with Japanese qualifications.
• For those researchers working under a contract with public or private organizations in Japan.
• All of those working in show business and sports.

Anyone who holds a non-working visa is allowed to work as long as the immigration office grants them permission. This type of visas is considered a short-term stay visa and some restrictions apply. Those doing some work under a non-working visa cannot exceed the number of authorized hours per week.

Who can benefit:

• The visa application is submitted through the school.
• Those training to acquire technology, skills or knowledge. This status is granted only when the candidate will work in a job requiring that technology, skills or knowledge once he returns to his home country.
• Technical Internships. That covers internships after training under trainee visa.
• Spouses or children of people staying in Japan under the work visa and non-working visa (except for temporary visitors and trainees).
• Cultural Activities. Cultural or artistic activities with no income.
• Students or researchers of Japanese cultural or artistic activities.
• University students taking part in an internship without remuneration.
• Temporary Visitors (also known as Tourist visa ). This status includes visitors on vacation, sports, family visits, participants in seminars and conferences, business meetings, market research, and those traveling to Japan to engage in PR activities.

There is also another epigraphe for non-working visas that is granted case by case: Designated Activities. Students on internship, working holidays, diplomats’ housekeepers are some of the people who can apply for this visa.

Family related visas

Family related visas are considered short-term stay visas and have no retrictions when it comes to employment, so you can engage in more than one activity or change jobs. Those who can apply to these visas are:

• Spouses and children of Japanese nationals
• Long Term Residents
• Permanent Residents
• Spouses and children of Permanent Resident

Japan tourist visa

Any tourist wanting to visit Japan must obtain a tourist visa prior to entering the country. Nonetheless, Japan excludes several nationalities from having to comply with this requirement.

For instance, citizens from most European countries, United States, Australia, and Argentina do not need to get the Japan Tourist Visa since they are considered visa-exempt countries for tourism purposes. Nationals from any of those regions can stay in Japan for a maximum of 90 days visa-free and are assigned Temporary Visitor status.

Japan tourist visa is a short-term stay visa for the purposes of sightseeing, visiting friends, or attending conferences or courses . A tourist visa is normally valid for a single-entry stay of up to 90 days.

Tourists can also apply for a double-entry visa for 2 short trips within a 6-month period. It is important to note that the Japan tourist visa does not allow travelers to engage in paid work while in the country.

Other short-term stay visas

• Business visa:  There is a temporary business visa for stays of up to 90 days which can single or double-entry visa (if both trips are within a 6-month period). Business purposes include conferences, meetings, signing contracts, and market surveys.
• Transit visa:  Some nationalities need a transit visa to stop over in Japan when going to an onward destination. Many travelers do not need this as long as they stay within the allocated zone and do not leave the airport.

Which countries need a tourist visa?

All nationalities who are not visa-exempt need a visa to enter Japan. Citizens of certain countries can enter with Temporary Visitor status for limited periods of time ( 15 to 90 consecutive days ) for tourism or business purposes.

Visitors receive a stamp in their passport which is a requirement for the Japan Rail Pass . The rules are very strict and it is not possible to get the pass without showing the stamp (tourists with other types of visas are not eligible for the Pass).

The following nationalities are eligible for Temporary Visitor status (all others need a visa to enter):

The nationalities listed above can enter for tourism , visiting relatives, and business purposes. However, visitors cannot be paid for work under Temporary Visitor status. In these cases, it is necessary to obtain a work visa .

Citizens of the following countries will need a Japan tourist visa in order to enter Japan:

• Philippines
• CIS countries and Georgia

Book your Japan Rail Pass now

Japan tourist visa requirements

To successfully apply for a tourist visa for Japan, applicants must meet the following visa requirements :

• Hold a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and 2 blank pages
• A completed visa application form
• Provide a recent color passport photo and a certified copy of your birth certificate
• If married, submit a marriage certificate (if issued within the last year)
• You must have the intention to leave Japan at the end of your authorized stay
• Proof of financial ability demonstrating you can support yourself financially during your stay in Japan
• Provide a certificate of your financial situation for the previous 6 months issued by your bank
• Submit the applicant’s tax return
• If applying without a sponsor, a copy of your Certificate of Employment must be submitted
• Provide a schedule and travel plans for the trip

If you still have questions about what you need in order to obtain the Japan tourist visa, you can find out more by checking the Japan entry requirements FAQ.

Japan tourist visa validity

Single-entry visas are valid for 3 months upon issue and usually allow you to stay in the country for up to 90 days. It is not possible to extend its validity.

Double-entry visas have a validity of 6 months from the date of issue.

Multiple-entry visas are usually good for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on the visitor’s nationality, the purpose of the visit, and the type of passport they hold. Multiple-entry visas allow you to visit Japan multiple times within this period of 1 to 5 years since the issuing date, but each stay cannot exceed the 15 or 30-day period.

Japan tourist visa fees

A fee must be paid in order to obtain your Japan tourist visa. These fees vary depending on whether you are applying for a single-entry visa, a double-entry or a multiple-entry visa, as well as on the nationality of the tourist.

It is a good idea to check with your Japanese embassy or consulate before submitting your application since fees are subject to change at any time. Also, please note fees are collected in the local currency where the embassy or consulate is located and must be paid at the time of submitting your application. Once that has been done, you will receive proof of payment.

Japan Tourist eVisa

A Japan Tourist eVisa launched in August 2022 as part of the government’s wider plan to reach 60 million foreign visitors a year by 2030.

The eVisa for Japan was available for Canadians and US citizens, but these nationalities are now once again able to enter Japan visa-free. However, it may it is expected to launch for other nationalities in the future.

The online application form will be straightforward to complete and means that tourists do not need to go to an embassy or consulate to complete the application. It has been designed to simplify the visa application process.

It will be necessary to make a payment by credit or debit card to submit the application. Once an application has been submitted and approved , the eVisa approval notice will be sent to applicants by email.

More information: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html

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Home → Apply Visa → Visa Type

Visa Information

Please select the consular district you live in to learn at which Visa Application Centre you can apply for a visa.

Regions under the Jurisdiction of Japan

Consulate General of Japan, Mumbai

Jurisdiction : Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Daman, Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Embassy of Japan, New Delhi

Jurisdiction : Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttaranchal, Uttar Pradesh

Consulate General of Japan, Kolkata

Jurisdiction : West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha.

Consulate General of Japan, Chennai

Jurisdiction : Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala and Pondicherry.

Consulate General of Japan, Bengaluru

Jurisdiction : Karnataka.

• What is a visa?
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Japan Tourist Visa: All you need to know

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How to Apply: Tourist Visa

Complete our user-friendly online application in just 20 minutes, or feel free to take breaks and return at your convenience.

Move closer to an approved visa with our team of iVisa Experts, who not only review your answers but also provide you with the necessary tools to prepare.

Make use of our feedback and free templates to confidently submit accurate information, and experience a surprisingly stress-free process!

Once government-approved, your visa will be ready for collection, marking the start of your travels.

How to Apply: Embassy Registration

Complete our easy online application and pay with credit card or PayPal

Your embassy will assist you if an emergency (eg. Natural disasters, civil unrest, etc) occur

Why Register with the Embassy

Required information to apply.

Once You Have Registered With Your Embassy Or Consulate, You Will Need To Update Your Data If:

• your contact details change,
• your civil status changes,
• you are going back to your home country.

Learn More: Tourist Visa

What you need to know.

The Japan Tourist Visa is a travel document created for foreigners that want to visit the country only for tourism purposes

To apply for this visa you must be located in your country of residence

In some cases you will need to go through an interview to complete the process of your application

Take into account that at the Japanese airport, the Immigration Officer will give you a Landing Permit to replace your Tourist Visa so you can enter Japan

All you need to know about the Japan Tourist Visa

Last updated: April 2024

We currently don't offer this visa, but you can find more information on the Japan government website .

This article will explain the visa requirements and how to apply for the Japan Tourist Visa .

What is the Japan Tourist Visa?

The Japan Tourist Visa is a document for eligible travelers planning to visit Japan for tourism purposes .

It's different from the Japanese eVisa , for which only certain nationalities are eligible, and has more requirements.

What can you do with a Japan Tourist Visa?

This visa is meant for tourist purposes only.

What can you not do with a Japan Tourist Visa?

Keep in mind, you may need a different visa if you're visiting Japan for:

Cultural exchanges, municipal exchanges, and sports exchanges

Work and live in the country

Business activities like liaisons, meetings, consultations, signing contracts, after-sales service, advertising, or market research

Visit or to stay with family and friends, including your spouse

Who requires the Japan Tourist Visa?

More than 100 nationalities can apply for a Japan Tourist Visa .

Find the full list of eligible nationalities on the government website .

Visa-exempt: Who doesn't need to apply for a Japan Tourist Visa?

Over 70 countries are exempt from having to apply for a short-stay tourist visa , including the United States, many EU countries, and the United Kingdom.

Find the full list of visa-exempt nationalities here .

Do minors have to apply for the Japan Tourist Visa?

Yes, minors from eligible countries must also have a Japan Tourist Visa to enter Japan .

Parents or legal guardians are responsible for applying for the Japan Tourist Visa on behalf of their child.

Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to submit their application at a Japanese Embassy. Children under 12 years old are not allowed to travel alone to Japan.

How long is the Japan Tourist Visa valid for?

There are two types of Japan Tourist Visas:

The single-entry visa allows you to stay in Japan for 15 to 30 days, depending on your nationality.

The multiple-entry visa is valid for 1 to 5 years and allows you to stay for a maximum of 90 days per visit.

Can I extend my Japan Tourist Visa?

If you want to extend your stay, you must **apply at the appropriate Japanese authorities before the expiry date of your visa.

Never overstay the validity of your visa to avoid legal issues. You may need to show proof of the reasons for the extension, such as a medical emergency.

Japan Tourist Visa required documents

To get this travel document, travelers must submit the following documents to the Japanese government:

A passport , valid for at least six months

Applicant’s passport-size photo

Depending on your nationality, Japanese authorities may ask for additional documents such as:

Financial documents to prove that you have enough funds to pay for your entire stay in Japan, such as bank deposits, statements, or other evidence

Travel itinerary or any other evidence of planned tourism activities in Japan

Reservation of your flight tickets to prove your intent to return to your home country

Please note:

Travelers are no longer required to submit their applications in the Entrants, Returnees Follow-up Systems (ERFS). The ERFS was a system foreign travelers had to use to obtain an ERFS certificate to be eligible for a visa to visit Japan.

Minimum bank balance for Japan Tourist Visa

There is no specific minimum bank balance required for a Japan Tourist Visa .

However, proving your ability to pay for travel expenses is essential. To calculate the amount of money, consider how much time you’ll stay in Japan and the daily expenses, such as hotel, food, and transportation.

You could present:

Bank statements from the last three months

An income certificate or a tax declaration certificate issued by a public agency

Certificate showing your deposit balance

How to apply for the Japan Tourist Visa with us

Apply for the Japan Tourist Visa via the nearest Japan Embassy or Consulate and follow their instructions.

In some cases, the Japanese authorities require you to attend an interview, depending on your individual circumstances.

Costs and processing times for the Japan Tourist Visa

The government fee is US$42 (at the time of writing).

Depending on your location, scheduling an appointment to submit the documents may take weeks to a few months. From the appointment date or submitting your documents, Japanese authorities process visa applications in 1 to 4 weeks .

We recommend applying as early as possible to avoid delays.

Arriving in Japan with a Japan Tourist Visa

Once you arrive in Japan, an immigration officer will check your visa and the reasons for your visit. After that, you’ll receive a Landing Permit .

This document will replace your Tourist Visa during your stay in Japan, and your issued visa will become invalid. The Landing Permit will be placed in your passport upon entry, so always keep it with you and present it when requested.

Where can I find more information about the Japan Tourist Visa?

If you have questions about the Japan Tourist Visa, other travel documents, or our services, please contact our customer service team via online chat or WhatsApp . We're happy to help!

Related Articles

• Japan Visa rejection: Common reasons and how to avoid it

• Japan eVisa for Cambodian citizens: Complete application guide for 2023

• Japan eVisa for South African citizens: Requirements and application online

Do I need a Japan Tourist Visa to transit through the country?

If you remain at the airport and do not enter Japan beyond the transit area, you do not need a visa or exemption to transit.

However, if you're wanting to enter Japan, you may need a Tourist Visa. Contact the nearest Japanese Embassy for more info about transiting in the country.

What are the other entry requirements and restrictions for Japan?

Before embarking on your trip to Japan, be aware of the entry requirements and restrictions to ensure a smooth journey. Here's what you should keep in mind:

Make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay

Japan has lifted all COVID-19 entry restrictions

Why has the government of Japan rejected my Tourist Visa application?

If the Japanese government doesn’t see strong ties to your country of residence or there are indications you’re trying to stay in Japan, so your visa could be denied.

From the submitted documentation, it must be clear that you're a tourist and will only stay for the travel purpose you indicated. You must also have enough funds to cover your entire stay.

How far in advance can I apply for a Japan Tourist Visa?

It is recommended to apply 2 months before your intended travel date.

Some people may have to attend an interview, adding more days to the application process. As soon as your paperwork is submitted, it can take up to 4 weeks to process your application.

What documents do Russian nationals need to submit to get the Japan Tourist Visa?

To apply for a Japan single-entry tourist visa, Russian nationals need the following documents:

• 2 visa application forms
• Documents to prove payment ability of travel expense
• Travel Itinerary
• Confirmation slip for airline reservations

If you are a college student or a graduate student from a university authorized by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation or the Federal Subjects of Russia or that belongs to the Association of Institutions of Higher Education of the Russian Federation and Japan You will not need to prove that you’re able to pay for your trip. Instead, you will need to show certificates of your university identifications or certificates of graduation issued within the 3 years of your graduation.

If you’re applying with a tour group you will need the following documents:

Your Russian travel agency will also need to provide these documents:

• List of tour participants
• Confirmation slip for airline reservation
• Confirmation slip for accommodation
• Materials to demonstrate that the tour is a group sightseeing tour
• License of travel agency, issued by the Russian Federation or the government of Japan.

What documents do nationals from CIS countries and Georgia need to apply for this visa?

• Confirmation for airline reservations

My passport has been lost or stolen. Must I apply for a new Japan Tourist Visa?

Where can i read more.

• The Japan Tourist Visa for citizens of India explained
• Japan Tourist Visa for Moroccan citizens: Everything you need to know
• Japan eVisa for Brazilian citizens: Everything you need to know
• Japan eVisa for Mongolian citizens: Requirements and application online
• Japan eVisa for Saudi citizens: Everything you need to know
• Japan Tourist Visa for Mauritanian citizens: Everything you need to know
• Japan Tourist Visa for Panamanian citizens: Everything you need to know

Other Available Visas: Japan?

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Home Japan Visa Document Requirements

Japan Visa Document Requirements

Japan is one of the most amazing tourist destinations offering a unique experience that is not found in any other region. Japanese culture provides a blend of Western and Eastern traditions and modernity seen on every street of Japan. Japan has diverse tourist destinations ranging from scenic mountains to stunning and breathtaking buildings. However, you must have a Visa in order to visit Japan.

For the ease of tourists, the Japanese government has launched the service of an electronic visa . This process is far more efficient than the old traditional way of obtaining a Japan visa . A list of countries is given, which clearly mentions the citizens who can apply for it. Nationals of the mentioned countries must apply for electronic Visas for ease. It permits about 90 days of stay in japan with a single entry. Online visa service is for countries with a larger number of nationalities like the Canada, Taiwan, United States of America.

Note: All other nationalities not mentioned in the list must visit their nearest embassy or consulate to obtain a visa.

When did Japan Launch their eVisa service?

The COVID-19 pandemic caused the Japanese government to postpone plans to implement the new eVisa policy in April 2020 . However, since Japan eased entry rules for tourist travel, the eVisa was officially introduced on August 18, 2022 .

What does the Japanese eVisa allow for?

The eVisa service offered by the Japanese government permits a single entry visa for a period of about 90 days which roughly makes three months . During your visit through eVisa, you can visit the country as a tourist, for business activities, visit relatives, and for various cultural exchanges. This Visa, however, cannot be used for remunerative activities.

Required Documents for Visa Application:

A number of other documents are required for the issuance of eVisa. The documents, however, differ depending on the purpose of your visit.

Following are the documents required for eVisa:

Copy of your passport:

candidates from eligible nationalities are required to submit a copy of their passport. Please note that the passport is not expired or does not have a nearby expiry.

Applicants Photo:

The application requires your facial picture, which must be clear for recognition. It should be a Passport styled photograph with the mentioned dimensions on the application. Your complete face should be visible and horizontally centered in the photo. It can't have any texture. It must be taken in recent six months.

ERFS certificate:

If you are visiting for Business purposes, traveling, or educational exchange, you must obtain this certificate and attach the file to your online application form.

Invitation letter:

Those visiting their family or friends need to show evidence of their kinship and stay addressed. The evidence could be a birth certificate, marriage certificate, a copy of a certified family register, etc.

ERFS for Registering for An eVisa:

Canadian, American, and Taiwanese citizens must first have an inviting organization in Japan in order to submit an online visa application for tourism or business . A travel operator or a Japanese corporation could invite them to Japan for commercial purposes.

The inviting group will thereafter provide a registration certificate for ERFS . After receiving this certificate, the visitor can start the Japan eVisa registration process. Those applying for visas to visit relatives or friends do not need an ERFS certificate . However, they are required to show their Invitation letter from family or relatives as proof of their kinship.

Application Submission Procedure:

The visa issuing portal is quite user-friendly for people who want to obtain their visas through the ease of staying at home. The applicant has to go through the following steps to get their hands on Visa:

• The applicant is first required to log on to their application portal. The applicant will be required to fill out the details mentioned on their passport. It is advised to write and fill out the form very carefully as any mistakes can lead to problems in issuing Visa. You will also be asked to attach the required documents depending on the purpose of your stay.
• You will be asked to give an email; please note that the email mentioned is in use and accessible.
• The second step required the applicant to pay the required fee. For ease, this portal is connected with an online payment system so that the applicant does not have to go through a difficult and lengthy procedure.
• After submission, the Visa will be sent to your mentioned email. Please download the copy and print it out. You will be required to show this copy to the border authorities on your visit.

Note: PDF forms and screenshots are not accepted while traveling. The original document form must be printed on behalf of the candidate to display on the border.

Application submitted on behalf of proxy:

Suppose a proxy submits the application on behalf of the applicant rather than the applicant themselves. In that case, a letter of authorization ( optional format ) indicating that the proxy is responsible for handling the visa application is required. Please be aware that applying using a proxy is only permissible if the applicant experiences difficulty submitting an e-VISA on their own, and the proxy can help the applicant present the "visa issuance notification" while checking in at the airport.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Applicants are advised to use the checker tool on the website to find their required eligibility. You should apply through the embassy or consulate if your nationality is not mentioned.

The simplified Japanese e-Visa application may be filled out online by eligible people. It only requires a few minutes to fill out the form.

The applicants must submit a new e-Visa application if their online Japan visa application is rejected. It is expected that applicants will be asked to carefully verify that all the information on the e-Visa form is accurate, as even minor errors are likely to result in the application being rejected.

No, you cannot apply for a multiple entry Electronic Visa. However, you can visit by obtaining a regular visa. For further assistance, please get in touch with the embassy or consulate near you.

Nationals of the US and Canada are exempted from paying Visa fees. However, Taiwanese passport holders must pay the cost as they are not exempted.

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Related Resources

Additional policy and regulations related to federal travel.

• Department of State Standardized Regulations
• DoD 4500.9-R, Defense Transportation Regulation, Parts I-V
• DoD Financial Management Regulation
• Federal Acquisition Regulation
• Federal Travel Regulation

Joint Travel Regulations

The Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) implements policy and law to establish travel and transportation allowances for Uniformed Service members (i.e., Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, Coast Guard, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Corps, and Public Health Service Commissioned Corps), Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees, and others traveling at the DoD’s expense.

The JTR is published on a monthly basis; however, policy changes may occur at any time during the month. In each issue of the JTR, the cover letter outlines all policy changes from the previous version and the updated sections are highlighted throughout the document. Refer to the travel regulations archive for previous versions.

For Uniformed Service members, the JTR's authority is primarily derived from U.S.C. Titles 10 and 37 statutes. For DoD civilian employees, the JTR's authority is primarily derived from U.S.C. Title 5 statutes, General Service Administration's (GSA) Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) , and the Department of State's Standardized Regulations .

Provisions of the JTR are also determined by decisions of the Comptroller General (CG), the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals (CBCA), the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), and DoD General Counsel.

The Per Diem Travel and Transportation Allowance Committee (PDTATAC), or Per Diem Committee, has oversight of the JTR, per DoD Instruction 5154.31, Volume 5 [PDF, 8 pages] . Two working level advisory panels support the subcommittee – the Military Advisory Panel (MAP) and the Civilian Advisory Panel (CAP). The Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) serves as the administrative staff for the PDTATAC by developing, administering, and maintaining JTR.

MAP and CAP meet monthly and evaluate issues pertaining to travel and transportation allowances for Uniformed Service members and DoD civilian employees respectively.

Learn more about governance .

Proposed changes to the JTR may be submitted through a MAP or CAP member or the PDTATAC’s staff. Some changes to the JTR are required by changes to law and Service or DoD policy, or decisions of the Comptroller General, the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals, or the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals.

To request a JTR policy change, submit your recommendation through your chain of command to your component’s MAP or CAP member.

Review the JTR frequently asked questions . For questions about Pay, Travel Vouchers/Claims, Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), Tax Exemptions, and Clothing Allowances, go to DFAS-Feedback .

Check your organization’s local business rules as they may contain additional clarification or guidance. If you need assistance locating your organization’s local business rules, contact your local level support .

Use your chain of command or contact your local servicing finance, transportation, or personnel office. The local offices are in the best position to review your circumstances and provide appropriate answers.

If you still need information after consulting these resources, submit a question to the PDTATAC’s staff . You must provide contact information for your servicing finance, transportation, or personnel office (whichever you consulted), the name of the person(s) with whom you spoke to, and a summary of any guidance given to you. A copy of the reply is forwarded to the Military or Civilian Advisory Panel member from your service.

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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TIPS: What you need to know about getting a Japan visa

Planning to travel to Japan any time soon?

Applying for a visa can be daunting, but it shouldn't stop you from taking that trip to see the Land of the Rising Sun. With some proper preparation of all the necessary documents, you'll be able to get approved for your Japan vacation.

There are different types of Japanese visas but we'll focus more on the tourist ones for those who want to go on a quick leisure trip to experience the country. There are two common tourist visas: the single-entry allowing holders to enter Japan once and stay for as long as 90 days, and the multiple entry visa which lets the holder enter the country many times within a specified period for at least 15 to 30 days each stay. Here are the requirements you'll need to get ready.

• Valid Philippine passport  in good condition, must be signed and have at least two blank visa pages
• Visa application form which you can download here
• Your itinerary in Japan which includes your port of entry, where you intend to stay and the contact number of the accommodation
• A passport photo 2 x 1.4 inches with a white background taken within six months
• If your birth certificate is "late registration," you must also submit a  Baptismal Certificate  and a Form 137  from high school or elementary, both of which must be issued within at least three months
• You only need to submit a birth certificate if you have never applied for a Japan visa before
• You will also need to write a letter of authorization for the Japan Embassy to verify your birth certificate
• Original Marriage Certificate (if married) issued within one year
• Bank Certificate  of a personal account (not company/business) issued within three months
• A copy of your latest Income Tax Return

If someone else will be shouldering your travel expenses, you must also submit the following:

• Guarantee letter
• Proof of relationship between applicant and guarantor
• Bank Certificate and Income Tax Return of the guarantor

Once you've acquired all the requirements, choose an accredited travel agency from this list from the Japanese Embassy. Fees may cost P950 to P1,200 for a single entry visa, depending on the travel agency.

Multiple-entry requirements

Want to get a multiple-entry visa? This type of visa has some conditions for issuance, so it may not be as easy to get one. For instance, you will need to have a history of travel as a temporary visitor to the country in the last three years.

If you pass the conditions, you will need the same requirements as above but also include an explanation letter for requesting multiple entry, proof of your travel to Japan in the last three years, and proof of financial capacity. 

So how much money do you need in your bank account to get your visa approved? The Japanese Embassy hasn't really specified a certain amount but what's advised is to have enough to fund your travel expenses. 

As for how long a tourist visa is processed, it will usually take seven to 10 business days. It's best to get your visa processed a month before your trip so you have ample time to request documents that you might not have around.

Additionally, you don't need to book a hotel or a flight before your visa is processed. In fact, travel agencies advise against it. It's best to book once your visa is approved.

Remember, just because you submitted all your documents, it doesn't automatically mean that you'll be granted the visa.

This article TIPS: What you need to know about getting a Japan visa was originally published in PhilSTAR L!fe

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Specified visa: Designated activities (Digital Nomad, Spouse or Child of Digital Nomad)

Canadians can now live and work remotely in Japan with a new digital nomad visa

Latest Videos

Eligible Canadians who love Japanese culture or want a break from Canada can now apply for Japan's newly launched digital nomad visa.

After Indonesia , Portugal, Spain , and Italy , Japan has become the latest country to introduce this visa format, allowing foreigners to live and work remotely for half a year with their spouses and kids.

Earlier this year, the country's Immigration Services Agency (ISA) announced that the program was expected to start by the end of March. It finally launched in April.

"The Digital Nomad Visa will allow holders to work remotely in Japan for up to six months (once this period is exceeded, the applicant must wait for six months to reapply for the same visa status)," reads a release from Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). "The new visa presents a great opportunity for those in the relevant sectors to immerse themselves deeper in Japan."

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Who's eligible for the Japan digital nomad visa?

Citizens of 49 eligible countries and territorie s can apply, and their spouses and children are also eligible to stay in the country. Applications must be submitted for the latter.

However, some requirements might make this difficult.

For starters, you must have an annual income of ¥10 million. This is just under C$80,000, per the latest currency exchange rates.

Documents you need

According to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, you will need the following documents to apply for the digital nomad visa:

• A visa application form (with a photo)
• Your valid passport
• Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), meaning documents that prove your income (bank/tax statement).
• If you don't have a COE, you must present documents explaining your planned activities and period of stay in Japan, along with documents proving that you have life and health insurance for your stay in Japan (compensation for medical treatment for injury or illness must be ¥10 million or more).
• Documents proving your annual income is ¥10 million or more. These could be a tax payment certificate, income certificate, employment contract, or contract with a business partner (clearly stating the contract period and the contract amount).

Documents for your spouse or child

• A visa application form (with a photo of the spouse/child)
• The child/spouse's valid passport
• A COE and documents proving the relationship between the applicant and the child/spouse.
• If a COE isn't available, point #4 above (about insurance and stay details) applies.
• A copy of the principal applicant's passport with the digital nomad visa

For more details, read the information Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided here .

Sean Pavone /Shutterstock

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