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Embassy of Japan in the United States of America

Visa and Travel Information

The Embassy in Washington DC only accepts visa applications and visa inquiries from Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia residents . For residents of other states, please refer to the List of Embassy/Consulates in the U.S.

• 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.
• Parking spaces are not available at the Embassy. Please use nearby parking spaces or public transportation.
• 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

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

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution.

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Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

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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 .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

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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What you need to know about Japan visa requirements

Dec 24, 2023 • 3 min read

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

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

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

Entry procedures – before you arrive

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

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

How to get a visa

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

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

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

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

What if I need to extend my visa?

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

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

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

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

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

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Japanese Visa Requirements

• Published on : 24/12/2012
• by : Japan Experience
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Find the necessary requirements and procedures for Japanese tourist visas, spouse visas and work visas.

Tourist Visa Requirements For Japan

• Tourist Visas
• Spouse Visas
• General Visa Information
• Living in Japan

Japanese Tourist Visa Requirements ビザ

Visa-Exempt Countries

Currently visitors from 68 countries and regions around the world are exempt from requiring a visa to enter Japan. This includes most European countries, Australia, New Zealand and North America. See a full list of countries exempt from a Japanese visa requirement .

Note that "visa-free" does not mean "stamp-free." It simply means that you don't have to apply for permission at a Japanese embassy before you come here. When a visitor from a visa-exempt country lands in Japan, permission of stay is granted for 90 days, in most cases, for that entry to the country, but only 15 or 30 days for certain nationalities. A stamp is made in the visitor's passport showing port and date of entry and permitted period of stay (see photo above).

Visa-Required Countries

Nationals from other countries have to obtain a visa in advance to enter Japan. These countries include Russia, China, India, Brazil, the Philippines and some other Asian countries, and most Middle Eastern and African countries. Passport photo(s) and a return ticket are usually necessary. Document processing is usually free of charge, although there is a charge for the visa itself. Fees vary according to whether the visa is single entry, multiple entry or transit. Visitors should also ensure that their passport is valid for at least 90 days following their departure date from Japan.

For Russia, NIS countries, China and the Philippines

For nationals of Russia and NIS countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan), China and the Philippines, more complicated requirements are in force and visa applicants should see the relevant pages on the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website where pdf application forms can be downloaded and printed out.

In general, for nationals of Russia, NIS countries and the Philippines an "inviting person" or guarantor resident in Japan (not necessarily a Japanese national) needs to prepare the extra documents and send them to the applicant in his or her own country, who then makes the visa application at the Japanese embassy or consulate in that country. These documents include a "Purpose of invitation" form, a travel schedule and a letter of guarantee. The guarantor must take on liability for the expenses for the applicant's stay in Japan, return travel expenses, and compliance with Japanese laws and regulations.

Philippine nationals are also required to submit a copy of their birth certificate, marriage contract (if the applicant is married), bank certificate and airline ticket reservation form. For further details see the Japanese embassy in the Philippines website .

Individual Chinese applicants for Japanese tourist visas also need to show evidence of annual income above a certain amount, in addition to the above documentation.

Japan tourist visas for Chinese nationals on group tours are limited to 15 days and procedures are carried out by Chinese travel agencies with a Japanese travel agent acting as guarantor.

Applicants for visas in Japan can also find more information and application forms from the Japanese embassy or consulate in their own countries.

Working Visa Requirements

In general, to engage in work at a school, university or Japanese company, applicants will need to fill out an application form from the Japanese embassy or consulate in their own country.

Visas which allow paid work usually require a Japanese company, school, university or individual to act as sponsor.

The following requirements are necessary for obtaining a working visa for Japan: a valid passport, a recent photograph, a letter from your future employer (or sponsor) stating your position and expected salary, a Certificate of Eligibility, a curriculum vitae, or resume and copies of any necessary graduation certificates.

The Certificate of Eligibility (有資格証明書, yuushikaku shomeisho) is issued by the Japanese Ministry of Justice and verifies that you meet all the requirements for a foreign national coming to Japan. You may apply for a Certificate of Eligibility through your local Japanese embassy, but it is more usual for the sponsor in Japan to apply on the foreign person's behalf, i.e., by proxy, through the local immigration office . Being able to show the immigration officer your Certificate of Eligibility when you land in Japan makes entry easier.

Working visas are normally granted for periods of 1 year or 3 years, except for entertainers where the periods are 3 months, six months and one year and are usually extendable.

Work visas are available in the following categories: Artist, Engineer, Entertainer, Highly skilled foreign professional, Instructor, Intra-company transferee, Investor/business manager, Journalist, Legal/accounting services, Medical services, Professor, Religious activities, Researcher, Skilled labor, Specialist in Humanities/International Services.

Like all other categories of applicant, visiting musicians and accompanying technical staff coming to Japan to perform concerts for a limited period also need a Certificate of Eligibility, unless they are exceptionally well known.

Foreign Embassies & Consulates in Japan

Spouse Visa Requirements

If you marry a Japanese national and wish to apply for a Japanese spouse visa, the following documents must be presented at an immigration office or Japanese embassy or consulate: a valid passport, a spouse visa application form completed and signed, a recent photograph (taken within the past 6 months), an official copy of the Japanese spouse's family register (koseki tohon) available from a ward office and showing your registered marriage, a letter of guarantee from the Japanese spouse, the Japanese spouse's passport or copy, and an official copy of the spouse's certificate of residence (jyuminhyo) available from a local ward office (kuyakusho), plus evidence of financial support (bank statement etc).

Spouse visas are valid for 3 years and must be renewed at your local immigration office or Japanese embassy or consulate overseas.

See our Japan residents section for further information on living and working in Japan .

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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 )

Entering Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Longer stays for the wealthy and digital nomads

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

White-collar work

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

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

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

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

Other work and trainees

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

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

Working holidays

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

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

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

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

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

Staying in Japan

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

Residence card

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

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

Extending residence permission

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

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

Changing status of residence

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

Re-entry permits

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

Permanent residence

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

Naturalization

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

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

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

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Japan Visa for Tourists in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: March 26, 2024

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

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

Table of Contents

Visa policy and visa types.

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

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

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

Japan does not have a visa on arrival.

Below is a summary of available visa types for tourists. 

Entry Requirements

The following requirements apply to all visitors to Japan:

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

Border officials rarely ask about the last 2. 

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

Visa Exemption

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

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

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

Japan eVisa

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

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

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

Characteristics

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

Documents required

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

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

Application procedure

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

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

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

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

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

Applying from China, Vietnam, and Mongolia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Japan Tourist Visa

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

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

Requirements

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

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

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

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

Benefits of Japan tourist visa

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

Transiting in Japan

Not leaving the airport.

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

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

Transit Visa

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

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

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

Japan Shore Pass

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

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

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

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

Entry Procedure at the Airports

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a covid vaccination certificate required to travel to japan.

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

Can I apply for a Japan visa online?

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

How much does a Japan visa cost?

Japan visa costs 3000 YEN or equivalent in another currency.

How long does visa processing take?

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

Can I get a multiple-entry visa?

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

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

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

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

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

01. Apply for your visa

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

02. Book your fight

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

03. Book your hotel

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

04. Get your onward ticket

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

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from 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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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules 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.  

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. You need a blank page for your visa stamp.

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

You can get a visa on arrival in Japan for tourism or business for up to 90 days. You do not need to apply before you travel.

If you need a multiple-entry visa, you must ask the immigration officials when you arrive. 

If you want to stay longer, you can apply at your nearest immigration office for an extension for another 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the period of the extension.

For long-term stays or to work or study, you must meet the Japanese government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa you need . It is illegal to work in Japan without the correct visa no matter how 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 read about living in Japan .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see 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.

Taking food into Japan 

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 

Japan is still a predominantly cash-based society. 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.

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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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• Application
• Requirements

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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The best way to get a Japan Tourist Visa: Step-by-Step Guide with Japan travel advice

Japan is a gorgeous and wonderful country full of incredible places of interest for tourists from all over the world. If you also desire to visit Japan , then you need to have a valid Japan tourist visa. The Japanese government has structured many different types of Japan tourist visas for various purposes and time periods, and you can decide which one you would need to apply for accordingly.

Although, you don’t need a Japan tourist visa if your country is on the list of 60 countries that get visa-exempt for tourism or business. But if you are from a country that does need a visa, you have to consult the consulate for the visa application process or visit a Japanese Embassy.

Here is everything that you need to know about Japan Tourist Visa Requirements and how to apply for, so that you can be well-prepared for your visa application and know what you are going to be dealing with.

For expert assistance with your visa application, don’t hesitate to reach out to our visa application helpline . Our team of professionals is here to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Application Process for Japan Tourist Visa

Step 1: Determine Whether You Need to Apply for Japan Tourist Visa or not.

Prior to travelling to Japan, you have to obtain a tourist Visa if you are from a nationality that is excluded from this requirement. Some of them are the United States, Singapore , Argentina, Australia , Canada, Malaysia and most European countries and their citizens don’t need to obtain a tourist visa to travel to Japan.

If you are from one of these counties, then you get to stay a maximum of 90 days visa-free in Japan on a Temporary Visitor status. It is valid for a single-entry stay for the purposes like visiting tourist attractions , sightseeing, attending conferences or courses of visiting friends.

You can also apply for a double-entry visa within 6 months for 2 short trips, but you must understand that you cannot engage in paid employment in Japan on a tourist visa.

Who can visit Japan without visa?

 The following lists include the names of the nationalities who don’t require a visa to enter for a short–term stay. If the name of your country is not among these, then you know that you need to look into a visa application.

Step 2: Determine the Types of Japan Visa You need to apply for

There are a number of different types of Japanese visas which include an eVisa. Japanese Embassies and Consulates are the ones that provide and approve the visas and the application process for eVisa can be done online.

There are mainly three categories into which Japanese visas can be grouped.

• Family Related Visas
• Working visa
• Non-working visa

Since we are talking about tourist visas here, the focus of this article is going to be on short-term stay visas.

Within the Category of Short-term ‘Tourist’ Visa, there are four different types you can apply for. Depending on the kind of visa you are applying for, you get to enjoy different privileges and validity.

• Single-entry Visas: it is valid for 3 months upon the issue and it is not possible to extend their validity.
• Double-entry Visas: it is valid for 6 months upon the issue.
• Multiple-entry Visas: it is valid for 1 to 5 years but will depend upon the purpose of your visit as well as your nationality and the passport you hold. You get to enter Japan multiple times with this visa but your stay cannot exceed the 30 or 90-day period.

Step 3: Prepare the required documents for your application.

During your submission of the application, you will need to submit a set of legally certified documents too. You will also need to meet a few eligibility criteria which are crucial to receiving approval for your application.

Japan visa requirements

To apply for a Japan tourist visa successfully, here is a list of visa requirements that you need to meet.

• Fill Application form Clearly and Correctly: You need to fill out the visa application form completely and carefully without any mistakes. It is a very strict requirement because even the tiniest error/mistake can potentially result in the rejection of our visa application.
• Passport: You need to have a passport that has at least 6 months of validity and two blank pages.
• Photograph: You need to provide a good-coloured photograph of yourself that has been clicked recently ( within the last six months) and not too long ago. This photo should be clicked solely for this application and not be used in any other place. Your photo should be passport-size (45mm × 45mm or 2in × 2in)  and of good quality. Check Japan visa photo requirements here .
• Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): Some places, you need to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility which is a must requirement for all non-residents of Japan to obtain. If you are applying without a sponsor, then it is important that you apply for it as soon as possible. Note: Certificate of Eligibility only require for study and work in Japan and not for tourist visa. Here is a link for how to get CoE
• Birth Certificate: Sometimes you are also asked for a certified copy of your birth certificate, and you should have it handy just in case. This is mostly asked in Japan embassy in Philippines.
• Tax Return: Another thing you need to submit is your tax return. But this also not a compulsory one.
• Proof Of Financial Ability: You should be able to provide proof of financial ability so that it can be proved that you will be able to provide for yourself financially while you stay in Japan. Normally 3 to 6 months bank statement.
• Certificate Of Financial Situation: You also need to provide a certificate of your financial situation for 6 months prior to submission of the application that is issued by your bank.
• Marriage Certificate: If you are married and your marriage certificate was issued within the last year then, you need to submit a marriage certificate too.
• Travel Plans And Reservations: You also need to provide a schedule and travel plans for the trip with your application. Such include reservation of the hotel you are planning on staying at, your itinerary and flight reservation details. You don’t have to book a flight ticket, that is not the requirement but having a flight reservation is what’s crucial here.

Requirements for tourist visa in Japan with guarantor

If you’re planning to visit Japan and have a guarantor, there are certain requirements you need to fulfil to obtain a tourist visa. Firstly, if your guarantor is Japanese, you’ll need an invitation letter from them along with additional documents as instructed by the embassy.

Additionally, you’ll need to provide proof of your relationship with the guarantor, such as your birth certificate or marriage certificate. Meeting these requirements will help ensure a smooth visa application process.

Step 4: How to Fill Out the Japan Visa Application as a Tourist

• You can fill out the Japan visa application form both digitally as well as by hand. If you are filling this form by hand, make sure you use a black ballpoint pen and use a block letter. Don’t use erasable pens or pencils.
• If a field doesn’t apply to you, fill in “nil”, “none” or “N/A”. and don’t leave it blank.
• Print your application form on an A-4 size sheet because other page sizes are not accepted.
• Avoid cuttings in your form. If it cannot be helped, use double lines to cross it. If there are too many cuttings and crossings, start over with another form.

Here is a sample of a properly filled Japan visa application form correctly. The number indicates the part which you might need guidance for:

• Your surname must be in capital letters. Fill in your name here the same as it is on your passport. Don’t use initials like ‘Mr’ or ‘Dr’.
• If you have another name you are known by, for example, a pen name or nickname, write it here. In case, your name uses initials on your passport, write your full name here. Write N/A if none.
• If you have immigrated and got citizenship in another country, write down your current nationality. If not, fill out N/A.
• Please be very careful while filling in your passport number. Double-check it and make sure it is correct.

• In this field, you must fill out a specific purpose like for Relatives visit, for Business, or for Sight-seeing. Don’t write only single words like Work, Travel, Visit etc.
• If you are going to stay in a hotel, fill out the required details here. If you don’t know the address or telephone number of your hotel, look it up on google. If you are going to stay with a friend or family, write down their name, address and phone number.

• If you are single and of legal age, fill out N/A. If you are a minor, fill in the occupation/profession of parents. If you are married, fill in the occupation/profession of your partner.
• As a tourist who is bearing all the expenses, you can fill out N/A in all the fields here. In case you do have a guarantor, fill out the required details carefully.
• If your guarantor and the Inviter are the same people, write ‘same as above’ in the fields here.

• If you filled in any of these questions’ yes’, fill out relevant details in the text box provided. If your answers are ‘no’ to all of these questions, fill in N/A in the box.
• Write the date of the day you are submitting your visa application.
• If the applicant is a minor then one of the parents or legal guardians can sign here and write down the relation to the applicant also.

You can download the Japan Visa application here.

Step 5: Book an Appointment at Embassy or Consulate and Submit Your Documents

How to submit your visa application.

The entire process of submitting your short-term tourist visa consists of three main steps. The Japanese visas are provided only by the Japanese Embassy or the consulates abroad for the time being, and during this process, the following things are involved:

1. Find and Contact to Japanese Consulate or Embassy near to you

The first step is to find and contact a Consulate or a Japanese Embassy nearest to you. Contact them to enquire about the opening and closing hours as well as book an appointment. You can also communicate with them via email and correspond with them online. They give you five days, and you have to pick a date out of those days to book an appointment. 

2. Submitting documents and going to Embassy or Consulate

Next, you have to submit the required documents along with your Japan visa application. Something that you must prioritise here is that you arrive for your appointment on time. In Japan and for its people, Punctuality is very important. That’s why you should try to reach the Embassy or consulate for your appointment five to fifteen minutes earlier rather than be late.

When you reach for your appointment, you are provided with a token/number, and when your number is called, you meet with the official in charge of your application for an interview. During the application process, officials typically do not ask many questions but instead focus on verifying that all required documents are present.

If any documents are missing or additional information is needed, officials will inform you on the spot. To avoid any issues, it is recommended to double-check all documents before leaving for your appointment.

3. Finally collect your passport and your visa

Then finally, after a few days, which is usually 5 to 7 days, you get an email regarding your application status. In this email, you are asked to pick up your passport and, if approved, to collect your visa too!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the application examination period.

The Standard processing time for your visa application is five working days. But for a number of reasons, this time can extend into weeks and even months. That’s why it is recommended to submit your application as early as you can.

How Much Does a Japanese Tourist Visa Cost?

When you apply for a Japanese visa, you are also required to pay a certain amount as a visa issuance fee. This amount of visa fee varies depending on whether you are applying for a single-entry visa or multiple-entry visa and your nationality.

• For Single-Entry Visa: 3,000 yen
• For Double-Entry Or Multiple-Entry Visa:  6,000 yen
• For Transit Visa: 700 yen

Note: Sometimes, you may be required to pay a different amount or not pay any fee at all, and this depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Also, if you are not issued a visa, you don’t need to pay any fee.

It is recommended that you consult with the consulate or the Japanese Embassy you are working with to find out the fee you need to pay because the amount of such fee is subject to change at any time.

If you are consulting a travel agency (Japanese Embassy/Consulate General approved) for your visa application, you will be required to pay processing fees along with the visa issuance fees.

Another thing you need to keep in mind is that the fee is taken in the local currency where your Japanese Embassy or consulate is located. It is to be paid at the time of submission of your application. When done with it, you will get proof of payment as well.

Japan tourist visa for green card holders

If you are a green card holder and wish to visit Japan as a tourist, you may need to apply for a tourist visa before your travel. However, the requirements and process may vary depending on your circumstances and nationalities. Generally, green card holders may need to provide the same documents when applying for a Japanese tourist visa as non-green card holders.

Can a U.S. Green card holder travel to Japan without visa?

No, U.S. Green Card holders are not exempt from obtaining a tourist visa to travel to Japan. They must apply for a Japan tourist visa in their home country or current residence.

What is a Japan Tourist eVisa?

Launched in August 2022, Japan Tourist eVisa is the new program of the Japanese government to meet their goal of reaching 60 million foreign visitors a year by 2030. It is available for US citizens and Canadians, but these nationalities can travel to Japan visa-free again. The Japanese government is working on adding more nationalities to this list soon in the future.

The benefit of this eVisa is that it has simplified the visa application process. You get to finish the form online straightforwardly, and there is no need to visit an embassy or consulate for the completion of the application. All you need is to make the necessary payment via debit or credit card while submitting the application. After all submissions and approval, your visa will be emailed as soon as it is done.

Why was your application rejected?

Your application could have been rejected due to not meeting the criteria for Visa issuance. Some of these are often errors or omissions in the submission documents.

Why are you not informed about the reason for the Visa rejection?

You will not be provided with the exact reason for rejection by anybody because that information cannot become public due to safety purposes . So, if your visa is rejected, you have to restart with a new application and pay the fee again.

What should I do to get a Certificate of Eligibility?

To obtain COE, you need your proxy inside Japan to get a consultation with the Regional Immigration Bureau nearest to them.

Why can’t I reapply immediately after my visa application was rejected?

You cannot reapply your visa application after at least six months because the circumstances for which your application has been rejected wouldn’t have changed, and it would be a waste of resources and time for everybody. But after six months, your circumstances could change, and you get a chance to make your application a better candidate for approval!

What should be your bank balance for a Japan visa?

There is no explicit amount that needs to be in your bank account when applying for a Japan tourist visa. All you need is to provide proof of sufficient funds that indicates that you will be able to support your travel and stay in Japan.

What are the Covid requirements to travel to Japan?

Every person entering Japan after October 11, 2022, needs to provide a vaccination certificate or a negative Covid test certificate that was taken within 72 hours of leaving the country. Fully vaccinated passengers don’t need a pre-travel COVID-19 test.

If you are entering Japan from a country that is evaluated as having a high-risk inflow of COVID-19, then you will be required to stay at a facility secured by the Quarantine Station for at least 3 days. After 3 days, a COVID-19 test will be taken, and if the results come back negative, you can leave the facility but still need to spend another 7 days in self-quarantine. Please see some links useful

Is Japan allowing tourist visa now?

As of October 2022, Japan has opened its borders to tourists and has begun issuing tourist visas. This is exciting news for travellers eagerly awaiting the opportunity to explore Japan’s rich culture and beautiful landscapes.

How do I get a tourist visa for Japan?

To apply for a Japan tourist visa, you will need to submit a completed visa application form, a valid passport, a recent passport photo, proof of financial stability, and a detailed itinerary of your trip. You may also need to provide additional documents depending on your specific situation. Please follow the steps above

Is Japan visa free for US citizens?

Yes. For U.S. passport holders planning a short-term visit to Japan, a visa is not required. This applies to visits lasting up to three months.

How much money do I need to show for Japan tourist visa?

According to the Japanese Embassy, there is no set amount of money that you need to show for a tourist visa. However, you must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your travel expenses, such as airfare, accommodations, and daily expenses. Having at least $2,000 USD in your bank account is recommended.

Important Note

You have to understand and keep this fact in mind that no matter how good your application is, there is always a possibility that your application might get rejected. No one can guarantee the approval of your application, whether it’s a lawyer or a travel agent or anybody else you are taking guidance from. If somebody is promising you this, then they are seriously lacking or a fraud. You can definitely make improvements to your application because it definitely increases your chances of receiving approval.

Japan is a great country, and I think everyone should get a chance to visit this incredible country. For this purpose, however, you might need to obtain a visa unless your country falls on the list of visa-exempt countries of Japan.

Visa Application needs to be filled out clearly, and carefully and you need to prepare all the required documents that need to be prepared prior to submission of your application, so your application process can run smoothly, and you have a better chance at getting approval for a visa!

If you liked reading this article, then you should check out our other travel guide articles . If there is something that you would like to add or share about your visa application journey, do leave a comment. We would love to hear about it!

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Step-by-step guide to obtaining a south korea tourist visa, ultimate guide to new zealand tourist visa application: a step-by-step guide, the ultimate guide to the best time to travel to japan, us tourist visa how to apply: the us visitor visa guide.

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Work or Long-term stay

Highly skilled professional visa

• Highly skilled professional (i) (a)/(b)/(c) (Examples: those who are regarded as “highly-skilled human resources” within the range of the existing conditions)
• Special Highly skilled professional (highly skilled foreign professional with certain level of educational back ground, work history and annual income)
• Highly skilled foreign professional (Examples: dependents of the highly skilled foreign professional, etc.)

Working visa

• Professor (Examples: university professor, assistant professor, assistant, etc.)
• Artist (Examples: composers, songwriters, artists, sculptors, craftspeople, photographers, etc.)
• Religious activities (Examples: religious people such as monks, bishops, missionaries, etc.)
• Journalist (Examples: newspaper journalists, magazine journalists, editors, news cameramen, announcers, etc.)
• Business manager (Examples: company presidents, directors, etc.)
• Legal/Accounting services (Examples: attorneys, judicial scriveners, public accountants, tax accountants, etc. certified in Japan)
• Medical services (Examples: physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, etc. certified in Japan)
• Researcher (Examples: researchers, investigators, etc. at research institutes, etc.)
• Instructor (Examples: teachers, etc. at elementary schools, intermediate schools and high schools)
• Engineer/Specialist in humanities/International services (Examples: scientific engineers, IT engineers, foreign language teachers, interpreters, copywriters, designers, etc.)
• Intra-company transferee (Examples: people transferred to the Japanese branch (head office of the same company, etc.)
• Nursing care (Example: certified care worker)
• Entertainer (Examples: musicians, actors, singers, dancers, sportspeople, models, etc.)
• Skilled labor (Examples: chefs specializing in the food of a foreign country, animal trainers, pilots, sports trainers, sommeliers, etc.)
• Specified skilled worker (Work-ready foreign nationals who possess certain expertise and skills in certain industrial fields.)
• Technical intern training (Examples: Technical intern)

General visa

• Cultural activities (Examples: unpaid internships, people studying the tea ceremony or Japanese flower arranging, etc.)
• Student (Examples: college students, pre-college students, etc.)
• Training (Examples: trainees in a local government, etc.)
• Dependent (Family stays) (Examples: The spouse and children of a foreign national with working visa, etc.)

Specified visa

• Spouse or child of Japanese national (Examples: spouse of a Japanese national, biological child of a Japanese national)
• Spouse of permanent resident (Examples: spouse of a permanent resident)
• Long-term resident (Examples: persons with Japanese ancestry, Indochinese refugee settlers, the spouse or children of Japanese nationals left behind in China, etc.)
• Designated activities (Examples: foreign nationals who wish to enter Japan as personal help privately employed by diplomats, etc., foreign nationals who wish to enter Japan for a working holiday or for paid internships, candidate nurses and care workers who wish to enter Japan based on an EPA, etc.)
• Designated activities (Long Stay for sightseeing and recreation)
• Designated activities (Future creation individual, his/her spouse or child)

Start-up visa

• Start-up (Entrepreneur supported by municipalities in Japan and the spouse or children of the entrepreneur.)

Diplomatic visa

• Diplomat (Examples: diplomatic agents, diplomatic couriers, etc.)

Official visa

• Official (Examples: administrative and technical staffs of diplomatic missions and members of the service staff, etc.)

Travel Visa To Japan: Application Process

• Last updated Jul 10, 2024
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category Travel

To apply for a travel visa to Japan, you must first determine if you need a visa and what type of visa is required for your trip. Japan offers both short-term and long-term visas, depending on the purpose and duration of your visit. Short-term visas are typically for tourism, business, conferences, or study purposes, while long-term visas are required for work, medical stays, or stays exceeding 90 days. The application process can be done online through the JAPAN eVISA system or in person at a Japanese embassy or consulate, depending on your country of residence and the type of visa needed. It is important to prepare all the required documents, which may include a passport, visa application form, photo, proof of financial support, travel itinerary, and more. Processing times can vary, but it generally takes at least 5 business days to issue a visa.

What You'll Learn

Determine if you need a visa, prepare required documents, submit documents to the embassy of japan, pay the visa fee, check for border restrictions.

Whether or not you need a visa to enter Japan depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. Here are the key factors to consider:

Nationality

The visa requirements for entering Japan vary depending on your nationality. Some countries have visa exemption agreements with Japan, allowing their citizens to enter without a visa for short-term stays. Currently, the following countries are eligible for visa-free entry for tourism, business, or visiting friends/relatives for less than 90 days: Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Nationals of China and Vietnam residing in their respective countries can also apply for an eVisa if they are travelling by plane.

Purpose of Visit

The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your visit. Japan offers different types of visas for tourism, business, conferences, study, news media activities, diplomatic missions, and more. If you intend to engage in paid activities, you will likely need a work visa.

Length of Stay

The visa requirements also depend on the length of your stay in Japan. For short-term stays of up to 90 days, you may be eligible for a visa exemption or a short-term visa, depending on your nationality. For longer stays exceeding 90 days, you will typically need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a long-term stay visa or a work visa.

Visa Waiver Program

It is important to note that the Visa Waiver Program in Japan is based on your nationality, not your residence status. Therefore, if you are a U.S. resident but not a U.S. citizen, you may still need a visa to enter Japan, even for a short-term stay.

COVID-19 Considerations

As of April 29, 2023, there are no COVID-19-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens travelling to Japan. However, it is always a good idea to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and restrictions before planning your trip.

Passport Validity

Regardless of the visa requirements, ensure that your passport is valid for the duration of your stay in Japan. Japanese authorities may deny entry if your passport is not valid or if you are travelling with a passport that you have previously reported as lost or stolen.

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To apply for a travel visa to Japan, you will need to prepare a number of required documents. The specific documents you will need will depend on the type of visa you are applying for, your nationality, and your country of residence. Here is a detailed list of the documents you may need to provide:

Visa Application Form:

Fill out the Visa Application Form and make sure to sign it. The form can usually be downloaded from the official website of the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country. Please note that a digital signature is typically not accepted, and you may need to attach a recent photograph.

Ensure your passport is valid and will remain valid throughout your stay in Japan. Your passport should also have at least one or two blank pages for entry stamps and visa issuance.

Provide a recent passport-type photograph taken against a plain background. The photo should be in colour and must be no older than six months. Check the specific size requirements, as these may vary.

Proof of Identity and Residence:

You may need to provide additional proof of identity and residence in your home country, such as a driver's license, state ID card, or utility bill.

Travel Itinerary:

Include a detailed day-by-day itinerary of your trip, covering dates, activities, locations, and accommodation. Make sure the dates match those on your flight itinerary.

Bank Statement:

Submit your most recent bank statement, typically covering at least one month. If your trip expenses will be covered by a company or host in Japan, you may not need to submit your bank statement. Instead, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a letter of guarantee or invitation letter.

Invitation Letter:

If you are visiting Japan for business, a conference, or to see family or friends, you may need an invitation letter from the relevant company, organisation, or individual in Japan. This letter should be in English or Japanese and include details such as the purpose of your trip and any financial support provided.

Letter of Guarantee:

If your trip expenses will be covered by a company or host in Japan, you may need a letter of guarantee from the sending company or your guarantor. This letter should explain the financial support provided.

Additional Documents for Specific Purposes:

Depending on your specific purpose of travel, you may need to provide additional documents. For example, if you are attending a conference, you may need to include a printed document explaining the conference. If you are visiting family or friends, you may need to provide the ID card or passport of your inviter.

Multiple-Entry Visa Requirements:

If you are applying for a multiple-entry visa, additional documents may be required, depending on your nationality. Check the official website of the Japanese Embassy or Consulate for the specific requirements for your country.

Please note that the Embassy or Consulate may request additional documents, and it is essential to provide clear and complete supporting documents to avoid delays or rejection of your application. Always review the most up-to-date information on the official websites to ensure you have the correct and most current list of required documents for your specific situation.

A Complete Guide to Applying for a Travel Visa to Japan

To submit documents to the Embassy of Japan, you will need to determine whether you need a visa to enter the country. If you are a US citizen, you do not need a visa for a short-term visit of up to 90 days. However, citizens of other countries may need to apply for a visa.

If you do need a visa, you will need to prepare all the required documents. The specific documents required depend on the type of visa you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a short-term tourism visa, you will need a passport, a completed visa application form, a photo, proof of lawful presence in the US, a travel itinerary, and a bank statement. If you are applying for a business visa, you will also need an invitation letter from the inviting company and a letter of guarantee from your sending company.

Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit them to the Embassy of Japan. The Embassy in Washington, DC, only accepts visa applications and inquiries from residents of Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. If you are a resident of another state, you will need to refer to the list of Embassy/Consulates in the US and submit your application to the appropriate office.

It is important to note that the Embassy will not accept any applications by mail. You must visit the Embassy in person to submit your application. The processing time for a visa is generally 5 business days, and the Embassy does not offer expedited services. Therefore, it is recommended that you apply for your visa at least 1.5 months before your departure date.

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Paying the visa fee is a crucial step in the process of applying for a travel visa to Japan. Here is a detailed and instructive guide on what you need to know and do regarding the visa fee:

Understanding the Visa Fee:

The visa fee is the cost associated with processing your application for a Japanese visa. This fee is typically paid in addition to any other costs, such as agency handling fees. It's important to note that the visa fee may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. For example, the fee for a single-entry visa is different from that of a multiple-entry visa.

Fee Amounts for Different Visa Types:

• Single-entry visa: This type of visa allows you to enter Japan only once and is typically valid for a shorter period. The fee for a single-entry visa is approximately 3,000 yen.
• Double-entry or multiple-entry visa: If you plan to enter Japan multiple times during your travels, you will need a double-entry or multiple-entry visa. The fee for this type of visa is around 6,000 yen.
• Transit visa: If you are only passing through Japan on your way to another destination and will not be staying for an extended period, you may require a transit visa. The fee for a transit visa is 700 yen.

Payment Methods and Requirements:

• Cash payments: In most cases, visa fees must be paid in cash. This is a standard requirement for many Japanese embassies and consulates.
• Currency of payment: It's important to note that the fee is collected in the local currency of the country or region where the Embassy or Consulate General is located. For example, if you are applying through the Consulate-General of Japan in Melbourne or Brisbane, you would pay the fee in Australian Dollars.
• Agency payments: In some cases, if you are applying through an approved agency, they may pay the visa fee on your behalf as part of their service. This is something you can discuss with your chosen agency.

Visa Fee Exemptions:

It's worth noting that citizens of certain countries are exempt from paying visa fees for Japan. These include countries such as Australia, Bangladesh, Colombia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Korea. Please refer to the official website of the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country for an up-to-date list of exempt nationalities.

Avoiding Fraudulent Websites:

When paying your visa fee, be cautious of fraudulent websites that may attempt to extract payments from visa applicants. Always use the official website of the Japanese Embassy or Consulate, or the JAPAN eVISA system for eligible countries, to ensure your payment is secure and reaches the correct authority.

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As of April 29, 2023, Japan has dropped all remaining COVID-19-related entry requirements. This means that vaccination certificates and pre-departure tests are no longer required to enter the country. However, it is important to note that travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change with little notice, so it is recommended that you carefully review the information provided by the Government of Japan before planning your trip.

Currently, there are no COVID-19 testing, proof of vaccination, or quarantine requirements to travel to Japan. However, travellers with COVID-19 symptoms will no longer be subjected to on-arrival testing, and travellers with a positive COVID-19 test result will not be treated at designated facilities.

It is also worth noting that Japan has a number of active volcanoes that may be subject to no-entry zones. These include Sakurajima (Level 3), Aso (Level 2), Shinmoedake (Kirishima) (Level 1), and Kusatsu-Shirane (Level 1). The levels indicate the potential for volcanic activity, with Level 3 indicating the highest potential.

In addition to the above, Japan is a seismically active country, and earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural disasters can occur. This may impact your ability to travel to certain areas, so it is important to stay informed about any potential disasters or disruptions.

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Frequently asked questions.

It depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. If you are a foreign national travelling to Japan for tourism for a short-term period (up to 90 days), you may be eligible for an electronic visa (eVisa) through the JAPAN eVisa system. Nationals from the following countries can apply for an eVisa: Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the USA. If you are a US citizen, you do not need a visa for short-term visits of up to three months.

If you are eligible for an eVisa, you can apply through the official JAPAN eVisa website. You will need to submit all the required documents, including a visa application form, a photo, a US visa, a travel itinerary, and a bank statement. It takes at least 5 business days to issue the eVisa. If your visa is approved, you will receive an email notification, and the eVisa will be issued after you register your credit card information. You can then download the eVisa through your account.

If you are applying for a different type of visa, you may need to apply in person at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

In addition to the visa application form and photo, you may need to provide a US visa, a travel itinerary, and a bank statement. If you are applying for a business trip, you will also need an invitation letter and a letter of guarantee from the inviting company. For a conference, you will need an invitation letter and a printed document explaining the conference. To visit family or friends, you will need an invitation letter, the inviter's ID card, and additional documents if your family/friends are covering your trip expenses.

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• Melissa Carey Author Reviewer Traveller

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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