japan tourist visa vs evisa

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The JAPAN eVISA system (electronic visa)

Foreign nationals/people who wish to travel to Japan for tourism for a short-term period can apply for a visa online and receive an electronic visa (eVISA) through the JAPAN eVISA system. As of April 26, 2024, the JAPAN eVISA system is available for nationals/people residing in the following countries/regions.

Eligibility

• (note) Online visa application via the JAPAN eVISA system is currently not available at the Consulate-General of Japan in Dubai.
• (1) China Nationals of China, who reside in China
• (2) Viet Nam Nationals of Viet Nam, who reside in Viet Nam and participate in a packaged tour organized by designated travel agencies
• (3) Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia and the Republic of Korea All foreign nationals/people residing in Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia and the Republic of Korea (except jurisdiction over the Consulate General of Japan in Jeju), except those who are exempt from short-term visa
• (1) JAPAN eVISA is available only to those who travel to Japan by plane.
• (2) During the application process, the applicant may be requested to appear in person at the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over the place of the applicant’s residence for an interview.
• (3) Only ordinary passport holder is eligible to apply through JAPAN eVISA website.

Types of visa

Single-entry short-term stay visa for the purpose of Tourism (for a period of up to 90 days) (Note). Electronic visas will be issued to those who applied through JAPAN eVISA website.

(Note: For nationals of China residing in China, electronic visas with a period of stay "15 days" or "30 days" will be issued. For nationals of Viet Nam residing in Viet Nam, the period of stay of electronic visas will be "15 days".) (Travelers with eVISA are required to display “Visa issuance notice” at the airport in the internet environment. PDF data, screenshot and printed copy will not be accepted.) If you wish to visit Japan for other purposes or for a long-term stay, please submit your application to the Japanese Embassy, Consulate General or Consular office with jurisdiction over your place of residence. (In some countries, applications must be made through travel agencies accredited by Japanese overseas establishment.) (For Taiwan, Taipei / Kaohsiung offices of Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association) In this case, you will have a visa sticker on your passport.

JAPAN eVISA website

• Please beware of fraud websites looking alike the JAPAN eVISA website.
• If your application is incomplete, we will cancel it without processing. Once cancelled, you are supposed to reapply (for your visa). Entering incorrect information and/or uploading incomplete/wrong documents could lead to a delay in examination or cancellation of your eVISA application, which may affect your travel plans.

How to display “Visa issuance notice”

Frequently asked questions about japan evisa.

• FAQ about JAPAN eVISA

Contact information for inquiries

Japan Visa Information Hotline: [email protected] (Available language: English) (Note1) Please mention your nationality or citizenship and place of your residence in your email. (Note2) This e-mail address is only for inquiries about JAPAN eVISA application procedures. For general inquiries, please contact the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over your place of residence.

• Website of Japanese Embassies and Consulates

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Embassy of Japan in the United States of America

Visa and Travel Information

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

Visa Information

Who needs a visa.

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

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General Rules for Visa Application

Application procedure & processing time.

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

Types of Visas & Application Documents

• Please click on the applicable box below to see application documents on each visa. 
• If you intend to stay in Japan more than 90 days, please click on the "COE Holders" box.
• The online application for a short-term tourism visa ( single entry only, and only for the purpose of tourism ) is available. For further information, please click on the “Short-term Tourism/Business/Study” box below.  

Application drop-off/pick-up & payment Hours

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

• US citizens are exempt from visa fees. (Some countries and regions are also exempt from visa fees. Please check the Visa Fee Exempt list to find out if your visa fee is waived. )
• Applicants who have applied for a visa online are required to bring a printed copy of “Registration Information Form” to the Embassy for your payment (payment is only acceptable in the afternoon). *Applicants who has applied for evisa (online visa) on or after 10th July are eligible for online payment ( Details / Video ).
• We accept CASH only. We DO NOT accept personal checks and credit cards.

Information on Border Measures

Covid-19 travel guidelines.

• On-arrival surveillance for travelers and returnees with COVID-19 symptoms has been conducted since 12:00 am (JST) on May 8, 2023.
• Insurance Before Entrance
• Guidebook for when you are feeling ill  

Visiting Japan

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

Staying in Japan

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

Recommended Information

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

Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, japan evisa: my experience applying for an electronic tourist visa to japan.

Planning a trip to Japan ? Good for you! Japan is one of my favorite countries to visit and I’m sure you’ll have a magical time there.

Recently, Japan has finally allowed us to apply for a Japanese tourist visa online, called the Japan eVISA system . Before the release of this new system, if you need a tourist visa to enter Japan, you’ll have to physically apply in person at the Embassy of Japan. It was a time-consuming process, and I’m glad they finally allowed us to apply online!

What does the Japan Tourist eVisa let you do?

Much like the regular short-term visa, the Japan eVisa lets you stay in Japan for a period of 90 days , and for the purpose of tourism . It is valid for entry within 3 months from the date of issue. Meaning, you can enter Japan any time within 3 months after the date of issue, and then you can stay for 90 days after your first day in Japan.

However, it’s worth noting that you can only apply for a single entry for eVisa. If you would like to get a multiple-entry visa, you’ll still need to make an appointment at the embassy and apply in person.

Who can apply for the Japan eVisa?

As of the time of writing, only residents (not to be confused with citizens) in the following 11 countries and are required to obtain a short-term visa on visiting Japan are eligible to apply for the Japan eVisa:

Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, U.S.A.

PS: This is a growing list of countries, so be sure to check the complete list from MoFA here .

I bolded the word “ residents ” above, so that you will not confuse it as citizens/passport holders of the countries I listed.

For example, if you are a Singaporean and hold a Singapore passport, you do not need to apply for a visa to Japan. But if you are an Indonesian passport holder legally residing in Singapore, you could apply for eVisa since Singapore is one of the countries listed above. If you are an Indonesian passport holder residing in Indonesia, you’ll still need to apply for Japan visa through the Embassy.

How much does it cost to apply for the Japan eVisa?

Typically, it costs 3,000 yen to obtain the visa. However, it depends on the agreement Japan might have with each country. Citizens of certain countries are exempt from paying visa fees, and therefore also exempt from the eVisa fees.

You can refer to the website of the Embassy of Japan in your country for more information regarding Visa fees. Here are the visa fees from the Embassy of Japan in Singapore, for example.

How can I apply for the Japan eVisa?

Applying for the visa was a long process, but it’s quite easy! I’ll break down step by step for you here:

Step 1: Understand what the Japan eVisa is for

First, you can read up about the Japan eVisa system here .

As I explained before, the eVisa is currently only available for single-entry tourism, for a maximum stay of 90 days.

If you would like to get a multiple-entry visa, or if you want to stay longer than 90 days, or visit Japan for reasons other than tourism, you’ll still need to make an appointment at the embassy and apply in person.

Step 2: Prepare the necessary documents

If you have decided that you would like to apply for the visa electronically, then you can proceed to check the necessary documents here .

In general, you will need:

• A passport photo with a plain background – I used a white background and it went through just fine.
• A scan or photo of your passport biodata
• A scan of your government ID
• Flight itinerary – You will get this from the airline once you have booked your flight
• Schedule of Stay – Daily activities of what you are planning to do when you are in Japan
• Document to prove the ability to pay for travel expenses – Bank statement of Income tax assessment
• Certificate of Employment – Issued by the company that employs you

Make sure that you have all the documents scanned and available as a PDF file on your laptop or computer. Jpg, bmp, gif, and heic file formats are also accepted.

Step 3: Sign up for an account at the eVisa Portal

Once you have all the necessary documents scanned, you can then proceed to the Japan eVisa portal here .

You will need to create an account by providing email and password. You MUST remember this information to check on the visa status later. You’ll also only be able to download the visa issuance (once the visa has been approved) by logging in to the account.

Each time you log in, they’ll send an authenticator code to the email, so also make sure you’re providing a legit email that you have access to.

Step 4: Submit your application

Once you have created the account, log in to the eVisa portal and click on “New Registration”. From here onward, start filling in the form and uploading the documents you have prepared in Step 2.

For the most part, I did not have issues uploading the documents.

Step 5: Monitor your eVisa application status

Once your application has been submitted, you can monitor the status in the Japan eVisa portal here , using the same credentials you created back in Step 3.

After you’ve submitted your application, you should be able to see it under “Visa Application List” menu.

You should also look out for any emails requesting additional documents. In my case, they did come back and ask me to redo my Schedule of Stay as I did not furnish details for the planned activities. So the second time around, I made sure to include everything and where I was planning to stay. I was also honest that some of the trips within Japan are still in the planning stage and put “TBD” as places to stay as I did not know yet. They were okay with it!

Step 6: Make the visa fee payment (if required)

Once the eVisa has been issued, you’ll receive an email. Log back into the eVisa portal and follow the instructions to make a payment, which will differ depending on your country of residence.

Step 7: Download the Visa issuance notice

When the payment has been received, you’ll be able to download your visa issuance notice from the eVisa portal again. To do this, click on the check box to the left of the visa application, and click on the “Visa Issuance Notice (pdf)” blue button at the bottom.

And that’s all! Fill out Visit Japan Web a few days before your trip, and you’re all set for your trip to Japan. You can print the pdf if you’d like, or keep a copy on your phone and be ready to display it when required.

How long does it take for the Japan eVisa to be issued?

Timing will vary depending on your situation, the volume of applications, and also perhaps what passport you hold and which country you are applying from.

From my application from Singapore in October 2023, here is the timeline from application to approval:

It took us roughly 17 days (or 12 business days) to get the eVisa issued. I was getting restless… because for 11 days, the status of the visa did not change. It was still the same “Temporarily Received” status and I was beginning to wonder if I did something wrong.

Finally, just as I was about to shoot them an email to chase, I received the request to submit an additional document. From then, it took only 5 business days to get the eVisa issued.

This is a much longer processing time than the previous procedure which only took 5 business days. But given the convenience of not having to show up physically at the Embassy of Japan, I didn’t mind it.

However, like I said, this wait time for eVisa could be longer when there is an influx of travelers to Japan. You can browse the comments in this post to see people’s experiences. To be safe, I would apply for the eVisa at least 1.5 months before your planned date of travel to Japan.

If you’re visiting during popular time (Sakura time, school holidays, etc) then make sure you get it done 2 months before .

What should I do if my travel date to Japan is approaching but I still don’t have the eVisa?

You can try doing the manual visa application via the Japan embassy. The experience for this varies depending on your country of residence, so I can only speak for Singapore.

In Singapore, you’ll need an appointment to apply for the visa in person in the Japan Embassy at Nassim road. This appointment is highly coveted and they’re booked out months in advance. However, people do cancel last minute so I advise to keep checking.

If you managed to get an appointment, it will take only 5 business days to get your visa approved, provided you have all the documents.

If you can’t secure an appointment at the Japan embassy, you can try paying travel agent to apply for your visa. I have not used them personally so I can’t vouch for them, but I have friends who have used JA Travel and they can get you a Japan visa for S$100.

… And that’s about everything I know about applying for the Japan eVisa! Please let me know if you have comments

100 Comments

• April 24, 2024

Just submitted an application yesterday, for the bank statement section in particular I noticed the site only allows you to upload one file. Is it okay to upload just your past one month bank estatement? The checklist said to submit the past two months but there wasn’t an option to upload two files, realised only after I submitted that I should have merged the two months files together TT.

• April 26, 2024

Hey Claire, I never uploaded my bank statement. I’ve always used my tax document instead. If the checklist says 2 months, you might want to merge the two files and reupload the file. However, doing so might delay the application (I don’t know for sure but it seems every time you upload a new file it changes the status of the application, which makes me think it pushes the application to the back of the queue?)

• April 22, 2024

Just wondering if anyone applied the eVisa on or around 8 April 2024?

I am flying on 12 May 2024 and my eVisa status is still “temporarily received” as of today. It’d be great if anyone can share any updates to their recent applications?

Thanks a lot!

I applied on March-29th and mine changed to under examination on April -17th. No update on Visa yet, but I believe my delay was due to me uploading additional documents without them asking for it.

• April 15, 2024

Thank you, Melissa! What an amazing work you did! 🙌

I also want to share my experience with the E-Visa application process. 🛂

The timeline is as follows: 12th April: Date of Application 13th April: Temporarily Received 14th April: Under examination 15th April: Under examination

I am planning to visit Japan by 20th April. I know I am very late with my submission. 😅 In my case, I will be in the middle of my trip. My strategy is called “Fingers crossed!” If I get the approval, I will take the flight from where am at. Let’s hope! 🤞

Hey ID, where are you applying from? that seems to matter as well.

• April 10, 2024

Hi – I also want to share my experience for the E-Visa application process.

Background: Me (SG) and my girlfriend (PH) applied visa on same date. I applied thru E-visa while she applied thru an agency in PH. Both of us have had JP visas granted previously prior to this application.

Original Departure Date: 5th April New Departure Date: 12th April (Re-booking incurs additional cost so sad)

Timeline is as follows: 17th Mar: Date of Application 18th Mar: Temporarily Received 4th Apr: Additional Documents Required (At this point, Me and my girlfriend had to re-book everything 🙁 ) 5th Apr: Under Examination 10th Apr: Still Under Examination…

Total Working Days/Total Days: 16 / 25

Notes: – Don’t apply for E-visa if you have option to go via travel agency. From what I heard, these agencies hoard the appointment in JP Embassy (though this will incur an additional cost). – If only E-visa is your option, apply at least 2 months before. The entire waiting process is such a pain. I can’t can’t even control my anxiety. – Ensure the Documents you submit are within the same month of application. This is a no brainier but happened to me. Mixed up some requirements from another visa application. Documents I submitted were dated February. – Most importantly: PLAN ALL YOU CAN IN ADVANCE! Ensure you have a backup plan. For example, for my case, I had a chance to go to JP embassy 28th Mar but I was very much trusting the process of the E-visa so I still waited for the E-visa.

PS: Please pray we get the visa on Friday.

• April 11, 2024

Hey Jun. Sorry to hear that, and thanks for your data points. I’ll be sure to apply earlier next time.

After the additional documents have been received, it should only take 5 business days to get your visa approved. I hope you’ll get it tomorrow.

12th Apr: Got my visa around 3:28pm.

Funny story, was about to rebook all flights/accommodation again to July / August then got the notification email indicating my visa is approved. Rushed home to finish packing then was able to catch my 10pm flight. Almost brought my old passport lol!

PS: Thanks again for this blog Melissa. I wish i read this a lot sooner.

Wow amazing Jun! I was thinking about you. I hope you enjoyed Japan

• April 2, 2024

Hi Melissa, thanks for sharing your experience. I am so glad that I found your post here. I’ve planned to go to Japan on 26th April and submitted my application on 21st Mar, but till today (2nd April) my status is still “temporarily received” and I’m panicking now, since my trip is coming in 3 weeks. I am so worried that I would be unable to get my Visa on time and I’m not sure if I should email them to query. Furthermore, I also realized that I submitted “hotel booking confirmation” instead of “scheduled of stay”. Do you think I still have ample time to wait or proceed to apply via agent? Thanks alot!

• April 5, 2024

My application status has finally “under examination (additional documents attached)” after I resubmitted my schedule of stay. But this was not requested by the embassy,I initiated to submit since it was “temporarily received”for almost 2 weeks. Not sure if the status changed coincidentally or it has been processed by the embassy. Does anyone has similiar experience?

• April 6, 2024

Hi ive been following your application process as I also am waiting for updates to mine. I submitted last Mar 25th and still temporarily received until now 6th Apr. I hope you continue to post and share your visa journey!

I’m not sure, but it could be related. Schedule of stay is always required, so they would have asked you for it anyway when your application gets processed.

• April 13, 2024

Hey, I did the same thing was there any update to your visa status ? Because when I going through the faqs on evisa portal they suggested we don’t upload anything new unless asked for and I am worried. It’s been 15 days and mine is still under examination

May I know, when the application was submitted and when the status changed to under examination. I have applied the e-visa on 21-Mar-2024 and the status changed to under examination on 08-Apr-2024.

May I check what’s the status of your visa now? I recently uploaded additional documents (without them asking for it) and my status is updated to “under examination (additional documents attached)”. If you could share how long does it take from there to get the visa approved, it’d be much appreciated. Thanks a lot!

I panicked and did the same thing and got worried. Did you get any updates?

Hi Alexandra,

I got an appointment in the embassy last minute 2 days ago so I decided to apply there. However, the eVisa section did get back to me on Wednesday (24 April) requesting for PR documents. I informed them that I have submitted via the embassy and would like to cancel my eVisa application.

Hi JT, ah ok. Did you manage to get the appointment via the booking system or did you call in? And any idea if the upload of additional documents cause any issue? 😅 just hoping that i’m still on track to receive the visa as i’m flying on the 17th

I managed to get the appointment via the booking system. From what I notice, you can check every morning to see if there’s available slots for the same day (I got my appointment through this method). Just be prepared to have all the documents printed. I believe that it took me 12 working days from my application (including the days where i submitted additional documents without being asked) to the point the eVisa team contacted me to get the additional documents. From thereon, I suppose 5 working days is sufficient for your eVisa to get approved.

If you manage to get the appointment to the embassy, it would take 5 working days (including the day when you submitted) to get the visa.

Hope the above helps.

• April 25, 2024

Hi Feb, wondering if you got your visa in time?

Hello Febriana, Has visa application move. We are applied almost on the same date.

• April 14, 2024

Hey , Did you manage to get your visa ?

• March 26, 2024

I’m taking my parents to Japan in May as a retirement gift for them! I applied for eVisa on 11 Mar and got an email requesting for additional docs today (26 Mar). — bank statements for 2 months with all pages included — flight info including the flights from SG to Manila and back to SG from Manila. I only included the flights to Japan from Manila. I was late to find this blog and the comments re all flights.

Hopefully I will hear from them soon and my visa will be issued. My parents applied in the Ph and took them 2 business days only! Imagine that! I guess Im just used to getting my visa in just 5 biz days here in SG when we can still apply just by going to the embassy even without an appointment. And surprised that it only took 2 biz days for my parents! 😂

Next time, Id go for multiple entry visa! The waiting is just too much for an excited traveler like me! 😂

Cheers all!

• March 22, 2024

Hi Melissa, Just want to thank you for making this vlog and the comments from here as well. This is where I often go to while I was waiting for my visa to get approved. I felt so anxious because I only applied 20 working days prior to my flight so coming here help me to feel ease. Anyway my timeline of my application.

March 3 — application submitted *was so worried if my documents are all correct* Used Bank statement x 1 month only.

March 4 – status is “Temporarily Received”

March 18 – status changed to “Under Examination” And here is when my anxiety started. My friend applied about the same time but she was asked to give more documents and was able to submit around March 19.

March 22 – Visa Issued for me 😭😭😭 I was expecting it on March 25 monday.

My flight is on March 31st.

My friend would make it on time right? Probably hers will be on Monday/Tuesday? Since we also dont have to pay, coz we’re residing in SG as well..

• March 23, 2024

Yeah it should be issued some time next week! In my experience if she was already asked to submit docs, it should be issued within 5 business days.

Btw if you’re holding PH passport it would be more beneficial to go through a visa agency. They were able to get 5 year multiple entry visa for my friends, so you don’t have to go through the same anxiety on your next trip to Japan.

• March 25, 2024

I actually might do that on my next travel.. but wow 5 year visa is great!!! Thank you very muuuuch~

hello! just curious, did your friend’s visa arrive on time?

Hiii yes it arrived March 27th as well. And we just came back from our trip~

• March 10, 2024

Hi – Can anyone let me know the email address with which you get the query for additional documents ?

• March 8, 2024

There’s always a trade-off in applying for Japan e-visa, thus the varying lengths of approval times. And it takes some amount of patience to take you through. I and my friend’s applications took 18 and 25 days respectively to get approved. But we weren’t worried because we made it sure that we’ll apply visa early, at least 1.5 to 2 months before our respective travels. So if there are take-aways in applying for a worry-free visa via the Japan e-visa route, make sure you apply early, submit correct and complete documents and bring in some patience in waiting for the results.

Totally agreed Dan, I have updated my post to manage expectations as well.

• March 19, 2024

Hi Melissa,

Would you be able to share average time for the visa to get approved via eVisa vs embassy visit (Singapore)?

eVisa : yy days Embassy submission : xx days

I don’t work at the Japan visa consular so I’m not able to share this. Previously when I used to apply via the embassy it always took 5 business days though.

• March 20, 2024

Thank you Melissa. Ofcouse, I asked based on your experience. Appreciate your inputs

I have written a section about how long it took me to get the evisa. Please take a look at the post above.

• March 5, 2024

Hi Fellow Travelers,

Let me share my experience applying e-visa for Japan. I noticed some, if not all, of the page visitors, only ask questions, but never shared their own experience of obtaining Japan e-Visa. Hence me, the Savior, instead of asking and asking and asking – worrying about my own problem, will share another experience.

Background: Indonesian Passport (non e-passport, so I need visa. Indonesian with e-passport can apply for exemption instead). Live in Singapore: Yes. I’m a Singapore PR, live and work in Singapore. Hence, I am eligible to apply Japan e-visa.

Since the inception of e-visa application by the Japan MOFA, I have applied Tourist Visa twice, and both of them are successful.

1st Application: Submitted Application: 15 September 2023. (Status: “Temporarily Received”) Got Response by embassy: 26 September 2023. They asked me to provide ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS. (Status: “Temporarily Received”) Submitted additional documents: 27 September 2023. (Status: “Under Examination”) Asked to pay for Visa Issuance: 3 October 2023. (Status: “Fee Payment”) Visa Issued: 3 October 2023. Days Total: 20 Days (13 Working Days), including the day I submitted the Application.

From my 1st Application, through the “additional documents” request, I learnt that: 1. Schedule of Stay: when I first apply the e-Visa, I’m not sure what a “Schedule of Stay” meant. I simply uploaded my accommodation/hotel bookings, as my stupid brain thought that well, hotel is my place of stay in Japan XD. However, Schedule of Stay is a day-by-day trip detail. You can google “japan visa schedule of stay” and look for the first entry in google. 2. Flight itinerary: you HAVE TO provide the flight from Singapore, and come back to Singapore, even if you have a transit in between with different flight booking. Last year, I found that flying from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, would give me a cheaper air ticket roundtrip to Japan, compare to flying from Singapore directly to Japan. Therefore, I decided to book my Singapore-Malaysia trip and Malaysia-Japan trip separately, and only submit the Malaysia-Japan booking, as I thought the Immigration Officers should only concern about our entry and leaving ports and days. So I was wrong on this, and they asked me to provide the flights on leaving and entering Singapore as well.

2nd Application: Submitted Application: 5 February 2024. (Status: “Temporarily Received”) Got Response by embassy: NONE. I did not get any response back from the Embassy, then suddenly, after a long time waiting, my status changed to “Under Examination” Status Changed: 21 February 2024. (Status: “Under Examination”) Asked to pay for Visa Issuance: 28 February 2024. (Status: “Fee Payment”) Visa Issued: 29 February 2024. Days Total: 25 Days (17 Working Days, including Weekends, Chinese New Year and Japan’s National Holiday on 23rd Feb), including the day I submitted the Application.

From my 2nd Application, I learnt that: 1. Since I learnt from my mistake in the first application last year, I provided the documents more completely, including the flights itinerary and schedule of stay. Therefore, the status changed to “Under Examination” without them asking for additional documents, because my documents are totally acceptable and complete. The problem is, because they did not email for additional docs, I would not know my application status has been changed to “Under Examination” if I didn’t log-in to the e-visa website everyday :’). But I guess it’s ok. 2. This time around, I didn’t book the flight ticket before applying for e-Visa. I just screenshot the flight I intended to take, and apparently it was ok (I’m not sure if other people have done the same, but in the MOFA website FAQ, they stated purchasing air ticket is not required). 3. This time around, the application period took longer than my first applications. I guess it does make sense as more people want to travel to Japan, especially during Cherry Blossom period. There was Chinese New Year holiday (12 Feb) and Japan’s National Holiday (23 Feb) as well. 4. For the proof of income/proof of fund, I used Notice of Assessment from IRAS of the year 2023, since NoA for year 2024 has not come out yet. I understand someone commented in this page that they were asked for bank statement since they submitted NoA of 2023, but for me, they didn’t ask for my bank statement. I guess this is the example of “not everyone application is the same”.

So that’s it. Those are my 2 experiences of applying Japan e-Visa. For those asking in this page, please please please share your experience too after getting the e-Visa. For those asking “what should I do I’ve wait for some time already” yes you just need to wait. Everyone wants to travel during Cherry Blossom. Give it some time and be patient. Apply more than 1.5 months ahead of your planned travel day.

• March 6, 2024

I received my Visa now. However, I need to confirm regarding my name. In eVisa application, I input my “Given Name and Middle Name” while on the issued Visa the Given name has it’s middle names too.

example my Given Name: Anita Middle Name: Santos Surname: Mendoza

In evisa application Surname: Mendoza Given and middle names: Anita Santos

Then, on my issued visa Surname/Given Name Mendoza Anita Santos

Is the Given name part correct? Is it same as yours?

It’s the same for my visa. I think it’s correct.

This is noted and Thank you 😊

To all travellers,

I applied Feb 13 and just approved today March 6, 2024.

I only submitted NOA.

• March 7, 2024

We need to login on Japan eVisa website to show our Issued Visa right? May I know how did you have your internet? Did you roam your Singapore Sim?

Hello, I have used Starhub Prepaid Happy Roam. I’ve also purchased Japan SIM card through Klook. Both works fine. There is also wifi in the airport in Japan.

• March 4, 2024

As per evisa website,

“ Due to a system error that has occurred since 27 February, it is taking longer for the system to receive your application (your application status will remain ”application in progress”). If you are in a hurry, please contact the Japanese Overseas Establishment over your place of residence.”

I applied on the 22nd Feb and till today the status shows as “Temporarily received”. I applied it from Dubai based on what my colleague who is a Philippine Nationality received it in 8 days. I am Indian and so I guess that is what the delay is. Do you know if the Nationality really matters? The Japan consulate in Japan said there is nothing related to the nationality but I don’t trust. My flight was booked for 8th March but looks like I will have to cancel it. Also, when contacted at the Japan Consulate in Japan, the lady was rudely talking and didn’t even listen to what I had to say. Now its finger crossed and waiting.

• March 28, 2024

Hi, just curious – did you manage to get your visa before your flight?

• March 2, 2024

Just want to ask, can i opt to go directly to japan embassy to submit my documents instead of applying for evisa? Im currently working here in sg.

Thank you so much

• March 3, 2024

You can if you managed to find an appointment on their website

• February 28, 2024

Hi, it’s been 12 working days already and the status of my application still the same “temporarily received”. Do I need to follow-up already? Though my flight still far on April 15. I just don’t wanna cram. My husband applied in the Philippines since he is working there and his visa already approved. It took 4 working days only.

• March 1, 2024

It is same for me. I applied on 11 Feb , Still “temporary received ” status. Let me know if u have any update

Do you have any update on your application? My status change to Under examination last Feb 29. No update yet.

Just be patient. That’s all you can do.

• February 23, 2024

Hi Marianne,

How’s your evisa application? I haven’t receive any email yet. I applied last Feb 13, 2024. I’m planning to send follow-up next week.

• February 19, 2024

I’m currently on my 11th day anxiously waiting for my eVisa to change status, it’s currently stuck at “Temporarily received”.

You mentioned that you’re very close to sending them an email, may I know the email address that you’re about to write to?

Thank you, E

Hey E, if i recall correctly they have an email at the application website. were you able to find it there?

Thanks for responding, Melissa. Yes, I have that email address from the website. Just wondering in case you have a different one so I could add as well.

• February 15, 2024

Can I just submit Income Tax Notice of Assessment for Japan evisa? Or need to submit bank statement too? I applied and submitted just the Tax Notice of Assessment from IRAS.

It’s either or, so you can submit just one

It won’t affect my application right? I mean if it will be approved or rejected?

Thank you Melissa.

No. I have always only submitted NoA and have never been rejected

Noted on this Melissa. Thank you.

• February 16, 2024

same thing happened to me. i submitted online jan 31. only today 16/2/24 i received an email that they need additional documents again. another updated cert of employment , another updated bank transaction or iras assessment 2023/2024 . the problem is 2024 iras assessment havent come up yet. its only for the year 2023 only. few days left only and its not a guarantee as they will still need to examine the new documents that il be submitting asap and my flight is on the 24/2

• February 12, 2024

Hi Melissa, I applied for e-visa on 03.02.2024 and still the status is showing “Under Examination” and I have not received any other emails asking for any additional documents. Please advise what I can or what I should do. Thank you.

• February 13, 2024

Hey Jen. Unfortunately there isn’t much to do but wait. If you can secure an appointment at the embassy, they might be faster to process your visa. Good luck!

• February 9, 2024

Hi! I submitted my application on Feb. 6th, and have included all information with an itinerary that shows my hotel accommodation’s plus the hotel’s contact info. What I did not include is the confirmation of the hotel – is this needed?

Hey levi, I did not submit confirmation of hotel.

• February 8, 2024

Hello! I recently applied my eVISA and got the status update to “Temporarily Received” on 31st Jan. I’m holding a Burmese passport, and there no more appointment bookings available for this month. My flight is on the night of 29 February. Do you think the visa will make it in time? I’m so anxious… I should’ve just gone down to the embassy since the start TT_TT

With the trip coming up so soon, i would just go to the embassy. If you see my timeline above it does take some time to process the e-visa

I see. I calculated and the earliest I would get a reply would be on the 19th. The embassy doesn’t allow walk ins. Should I still try showing up at the embassy regardless?

Definitely don’t show up without appointment. Are you living in Singapore? I recommend checking everyday to see if they have appointment. I heard people cancel last minute. Also be ready with the required documents.

Yes, I’m in Singapore. I’ve sent them an email asking if they could give me an estimate of how long more they would take, hopefully on Tuesday they can give me an answer! Thank you again :’)

If you’re desperate, you can try using JA travel . I am not endorsing them since I’ve never used them, but a few of my friends did. I think they charge $100 to get Japan visa.

• February 27, 2024

Did you get the visa yet ? I am travelling on 24th March and have applied my visa on 9th feb and still its under “Temporarily received” status and now I am getting anxious. I am indian passport holder staying in singapore.

What’s the status of your application, did you get approval yet?

I’m in a similar situation, my travel time is also around the same 23rd March. I applied eVisa (Family Visa – Indian passport staying in Singapore) on 1st March and it’s still showing as “Temporarily received” status.

I’ve been exploring different options, and one of the travel agencies I contacted, Ja, has mentioned a possibility of obtaining the visa within 7 working days also the cheapest. So I’m thinking to take this route.

• February 7, 2024

Hi Mellisa!

We’re planning to go on April from UAE. Is it required to book a hotel for visa application? Or Hotel details and contact info is enough? What we’re doing is we made an itinerary with flight info. I’ve checked in the official website and it says they only required “flight itinerary. Is it the same with dummy ticket?

Hey Elgine, I didn’t have to show a hotel booking, but I have yet to apply a visa to Japan without booking flight tickets first. Maybe a dummy ticket would work, but I have not tried that myself.

• January 30, 2024

Hi Melissa, thanks for the insightful post! I’m applying for the e-visa and it’s missing some information so I withdrew it to submit again. After I withdrew, the status turned to “Withdrawal request in progress” and I can’t submit another application. Have you experienced this and if you know how long would it take to back to normal (being able to re-submit)?

In this case, would you recommend just going to the Japan office and apply in person instead? Thank you!

• January 31, 2024

Hey Tran, if you’re able to go to the embassy then I would do that. It’s the same thing. I submitted online since the appointment to go to the embassy was always full in Singapore.

• January 29, 2024

Hi Melissa, I’ve applied for the evisa online on 14th Jan and today the status still shows “Temporarily Received” so I’m getting kinda worried. Actually on the 30th Jan tomorrow I have an appointment slot at the Embassy that was previously booked and I’m wondering if I should go down to apply there in person? Or should I just wait it out a bit more?

Are you applying from Singapore? and when is your intended date of visit to Japan? I agree it has been quite awhile so if I were you I would just go to the embassy and then if the embassy accepts the application, I would cancel the online application when I am back home (I think there is an option to withdraw if i’m not wrong).

Actually I went to the embassy today and just submitted my application as usual and I got accepted! I’ll have to go back to collect my passport in a few days. I guess I’ll just have to withdraw my online application like u said

Can I ask how much time it took for you to get Visa?

• January 16, 2024

Hey Melissa, Thanks for your post. Can i check whether did you have to mail in your physical passport and other documents to Japan embassy as well for the short-term e-visa? If you are applying it from Singapore.

Hey Kelvin, I did not have to send the passport or anything. There will not be any visa pasted to your passport either. They will give you a PDF which you can print out instead. However when you get thru immigration you’ll still get the immigration stamp.

• January 1, 2024

Hi Melissa! I’ll be applying for Japan evisa this week, may I know why your itinerary is not detailed enough? May you share the itinerary that was not detailed enough for the embassy? Thanks! This article was very helpful!

• January 2, 2024

It was my fault, I literally just put the date i am arriving and leaving Japan, and I was going to be there for 2 months. I didn’t have a set plan yet at that time. So in the end I put all my tentative plans and they were okay with it.

• December 16, 2023

Why are some people getting it faster than others?

• December 17, 2023

I have no idea, to be honest

• December 7, 2023

May i ask for your nationality?

I’ve applied on the 2nd of december for my wife, who’s a vietnamese residing in singapore. It’s been about a week now with the status as “temporarily received” still. Getting anxious. Scheduled flight’s on the 20th of Jan…

Hey Marc, I posted the timeline. It was “temporarily received” for 11 days for my family (Ukraine passport) so i think you have another week or so until the visa is approved

• December 6, 2023

Hihi, so based on the timeline above, on the 24th was your Visa issued or you were informed to make payment? Osrry, getting bit confused here. Also, don’t mind sharing which nationality was your family’s passport?

No, the visa was essentially approved on Oct 19th when they have accepted the additional document. They did not inform me to make a payment since I don’t need to. They just told me “we have received your documents with thanks. It takes at least 5 working days to process your eVISA application from NOW.”

From then, it took another 5 days for the visa to be issued (Oct 24)

If they are asking you for payment, I think it means the visa has been approved and you just need to wait another 5 days after the payment has been accepted.

• December 5, 2023

Hi, May I know from the time you were told to make payment to making payment and finally getting your eVisa, how long did it take? Was the eVisa issued immediately right after payment? How did you make payment? Online or at the Embassy? Thanx loads

Hey MoMi. It was free for us (there are different fee per citizenship). Once you are told the visa application has been accepted, it should take around 5 business days.

• November 28, 2023

Hello sir, I applied evisa. Is it should be 2mb only the size of the files, example for my bank statement and COe, bank certificate i merged it all.

I applied 4times now because always cancelled. Is it okay to re apply again even 3 times cancelled?

Hi! How did you merge it?

• October 31, 2023

Singaporean here, I visited Japan in May and July 2023 and do not need a visa. Is there such a requirement?

Hi Mich, there is no change to the visa requirement. This is merely a new way to apply for a Japan visa! As a Singaporean, you still do not need a visa to enter Japan.

PS: I am curious how you found this post? I have literally just posted it less than an hour ago!

Thought you’re a Singaporean, so panicked when I saw you applingy for a visa. My next trip to Japan is next week.

Anyways, I subscribed to your RSS feeds. Any updates will auto pop up.

• November 1, 2023

I see! I had forgotten about the RSS feed. Yes I am Singaporean and do not need a visa, but was applying for a family member who is not a Singapore passport holder. I’ve added the clarification to my post.

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Japan Solved

Tourist Visa In Japan: A Simple Guide             

Embark on a journey to the Land of the Rising Sun with the essential first step: obtaining your tourist visa for Japan. Don’t worry! We’ve got your back!

This article is your lantern, illuminating the path through the delicate intricacies of the Japanese visa process. Whether you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms in Kyoto or the neon lights of Tokyo, we’ll guide you through each requirement to ensure your Japanese adventure begins smoothly and beautifully.

Let’s dive in!

Who Needs A Tourist Visa Or E-VISA In Japan?

If you are a citizen of one of the following countries, you can temporarily go to Japan visa-free for vacation or business for up to 90 days . 

Nationals from any of these regions are assigned Temporary Visitor status:

• Dominican Republic
• New Zealand
• Honduras 

When Do You Need The Tourist Visa Or E-VISA Of Japan?

A 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 typically 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 6 months.

It is important to note that the Japanese tourist visa does not allow travelers to participate in paid work or study while in the country.

Accordingly, you must apply for a student work visa (national visa) or other visa types according to your purpose of entry if you wish to enter for reasons other than tourism.

Some other types of short-stay visas include:

Business Visa

There is a temporary business visa for stays of up to 90 days, which can be a single or double-entry visa if both trips are within 6 months. 

Business purposes include conferences, meetings, signing contracts, and market surveys.

Transit Visa 

Some nationalities need a transit visa to stop 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.

How Do You Obtain A Tourist Visa In Japan?

You must apply for a Japan Tourist Visa from a Representative Office of Japan abroad (Embassy or Consulate) or through an accredited travel agency .

 This process is as follows:

• Contact the Japanese Embassy/Consulate to make an appointment for the submission of the application. However, some Japanese Embassies do not accept individual applications, so you must apply through a travel agency. The agency will submit the application at the Embassy or Consulate on your behalf.
• Gather the required documents for a Japan visa 
• Submit the documents at the Embassy/Consulate or the travel agency.
• Wait for the visa to be processed. This usually takes 5 working days , starting when the Japanese Representative Office receives your completed application.
• Collect your passport from the Embassy/Consulate/travel agency. 

If the application has been approved, your visa will be affixed, and you can use it to travel to Japan within three months .

Remember that incomplete documents will require additional visits to the embassy or result in the need to reapply.

What Documents Are Required For The Tourist Visa?

You are obliged to prepare the following documents:

• Passport Visa Application Form & one photograph ( 4.5cm x 4.5cm ) 
• Copy of CNIC
• Copy of Student Card （only if the applicant is still registered as a college student） 
• Flight itinerary issued by a travel agency or airline office Itinerary with information on places you plan to visit and stay. 
• Documents certifying the relationship between you and your relatives living in Japan 
• Documents certifying the relationship between you and your friends/acquaintances living in Japan (such as photos, letters, etc.) 
• Copy of documents certifying the relationship between each applicant, such as family registration card, etc. (for group applicants only)
• Certificate of Employment Invitation Letter 

You must also bring along proof of sufficient funds to defray all the expenses while in Japan: 

• If you, your relative/friend outside Japan , or an organization/institution where you belong to pay for your trip, you must have a copy of the bank statement for the last 3 months.  If you are not paying for your trip, you must submit documents certifying the relationship between you and the one who pays for your trip.  
• As well as the letter from the organization/institution where you belong that certifies the purpose of the visit
• Letter of Guarantee
• A copy of documents on the guarantor
• A copy of the bank statement for the last three months
• A copy of the bankbook for recent three months
• A certificate of employment with information on the duration of employment and amount of annual income
• Domicile certificate
• A copy of the legal registration or an Overview of the Company/Organization in Japan.

Additional documents may be required according to your specific situation.

What Is The Japanese E-VISA?

It is a system that enables applicants to apply for a visa online and issues an electronic visa to applicants for a short-term stay for the purpose of tourism. 

This Japan online visa simplifies the visa application process by eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates.

As of November 1 , 2023 , Japan eVISA is available to residents in the following countries/regions:

• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• Nationals of China who reside in China
• Nationals of Vietnam who reside in Vietnam 

For the time being, only those Vietnamese who participate in a packaged tour organized by designated travel agencies.

Visa applications must be made through travel agencies accredited by the Japanese overseas establishment. The agencies will begin applying for visas on the Japan eVISA system as soon as their preparations are complete.

How To Obtain A Japanese E-VISA?

Listed below are the steps on how you can get a Japanese E-VISA:

• Fill out the online application
• Complete the online application and pay with credit card or PayPal
• Receive documents via email
• Enter destination
• Present your Passport and the Document upon entry to the destination country

However, it’s important to note that the Japan electronic visa has certain limitations. Here are a few things you cannot do with the E-VISA:

• Work in Japan without obtaining the necessary work permits or visas.
• Engage in any form of paid employment or long-term studies .
• Stay in Japan beyond the permitted duration granted by the eVISA.
• Visit friends and family.
• Engage in business activities.
• Seek medical treatment .
• Attend special events, festivals, or conferences held in the country.
• Undertake any activities not in line with the purpose specified in your E-VISA application.

It’s crucial to adhere to the terms and conditions of the Japan eVISA for a legal stay in the country.

To apply for the Japan visa online, you will need the following documents and information:

• Passport:  A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond your intended stay in Japan. Ensure that your passport has at least two blank pages for visa stamping.
• Personal Information:  You must provide personal details such as your full name, date of birth, nationality, and gender as they appear in your passport.
• Contact Information:  Your current address, phone number, and email address should be provided for communication purposes.
• Travel Itinerary:  Details of your planned itinerary, including your arrival and departure dates, the address of your accommodation in Japan, and any planned activities or destinations.
• Employment Details:  Suppose you are visiting Japan for business purposes. In that case, you may be required to provide information about your employer, such as the company’s name, position, and the purpose of your visit.
• Financial Means:  It may be necessary to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Japan. This can be done by providing recent bank statements or proof of financial capability.
• Recent Passport Photo:  A digital passport-sized photograph with a plain white background.

Incomplete documentation will result in the cancellation of processing of your eVISA.

What Is The Visa Fees And Processing Time For A Tourist Visa And E-VISA?

For a single-entry visa, the fee is 3,000 Yen . For a double-entry or multiple-entry visa, the fee is  6,000 Yen . 

The processing time for a Japanese Tourist Visa is five working days , starting when the Embassy or Consulate receives your completed application.

Generally, the E-VISA issuance fee is 3700 yen , approx. However, the visa fees may be waived or reduced for specific countries and regions based on the nationality of the applicant.

Visas for the Japan E-visa are issued within five working days after all required documents are submitted.

As our guide to securing a tourist visa for Japan draws to a close, remember that this process is your gateway to a world of unparalleled beauty and cultural richness.

Armed with the knowledge from this article, you’re now ready to step into the enchanting streets of Japan with confidence and excitement. Sayonara and safe travels on your journey to discovery!

Japan Awaits!

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in following:

• Types Of Visas In Japan
• Tax Refund In Japan
• Temporary Residence In Japan

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Japan Tourist Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Published: March 18, 2024

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

Quick summary:

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

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

Table of Contents

Understanding japan tourist visa.

Tourist visa validity

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

Duration of stay

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

Allowed number of entries

The standard Japanese tourist visa is a single entry only.

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

Allowed ports of entry

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

When to apply

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

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

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

Tourist visa extension

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

Benefits of Japan tourist visa

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

Japan Tourist Visa Requirements

Who requires a tourist visa

The following nationalities require a tourist visa to travel to Japan

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

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

Documents required

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

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

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

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

Chinese travelers

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

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

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

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

Travelers from Russia, CIS Countries, and Georgia

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

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

Travelers from the Philippines

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

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

Photo requirements

The passport photo must meet the following requirements.

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

Tourist visa fee

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

Visa fees may be lower for some countries.

Online payment for the visa fee is not possible.

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

Processing time

The processing time is 5 business days. 

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

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

Japan Tourist Visa Application Process

How to apply for a Japan tourist visa

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

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

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

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

Step 1: Gather all the necessary documents.

Step 2: Apply in person at the Japanese embassy.

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

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

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

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

How to contact the Japanese embassy or consulate

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

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

Entry Procedure at the Border

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is japan visa easy to get.

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

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

Can I apply for a Japan visa online?

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

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

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

What is the minimum bank balance for Japan tourist visa?

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

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

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

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

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

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

01. Apply for your visa

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

02. Book your fight

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

03. Book your hotel

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

04. Get your onward ticket

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

05. Purchase your insurance

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

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

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

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

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Japanese eVisa for American Citizens

Update : Japan's visa-exemption policy resumes on October 11, 2022. Travelers from visa-free countries will not need a visa from October 11 onwards.

American citizens traveling to Japan need a Japanese visa for US citizens to enter the country no matter their length of intended stay or the purpose of the travel.

The Japanese government has launched an eVisa for Japan for US citizens . US passport holders can now obtain a short-term visa through a simplified online application process.

On this page, American citizens can learn when they are eligible for the eVisa, how to apply for a Japan visa online from the US , and when it is necessary to obtain their Japanese visa from an embassy or consulate.

The Japanese eVisa for American Citizens

The new electronic visa system for Japan allows Americans to apply for and obtain a Japanese visa online for short-term stays.

The eVisa for Japan for US citizens is available as a :

• Tourist visa: available to US travelers visiting Japan as part of an organized tour group.
• Business visa: created for business professionals arriving in the country for short-term engagements on the invitation of a Japanese company.
• Visa for visiting relatives: available for individuals visiting family in Japan with an invitation letter and proof of kinship.

These types of Japan visas for US citizens can now be obtained through the online process. They are single-entry visas that allow the holder a maximum stay of 90 days in the country.

Japan Visa Requirements for US Citizens

In order to submit an eVisa application from the USA, it is first necessary to meet the online Japan visa requirements for American citizens and have the following documents:

• A passport with at least 6 month's validity
• A recent photo of the traveler taken against a white background
• A certificate of registration to ERFS (Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System). This is provided by the inviting organization in Japan ( tourist and business travelers only).
• Parental consent letter (if applying for a minor)

Applicants for a Japan eVisa for US citizens planning to visit family in the country do not need to provide an ERFS certificate, but they must supply:

• A letter of invitation from their relatives
• Proof of kinship (e.g. a marriage or birth certificate)

Applicants for a Japanese visa for Americans for a spouse or child of a Japanese national or permanent or long-term resident don’t need to submit an Invitation Letter. However, they are still required to prove kinship.

Online Japan Visa Application for US Citizens

To apply for the Japanese eVisa , Americans will have to fill out an online application with their personal, passport and travel details. They can then upload supporting documents in digital format, and pay a service fee to submit their request.

Once they have submitted their form, the applicant must then visit their nearest Japanese overseas office to pay the eVisa fee .

After completing payment, the applicant receives a notification via email that allows them to access the electronic Visa Issuance Notice .

This must be shown on a digital device to airline staff in order to board a flight to Japan, alongside the same passport used to complete the eVisa form.

Note: If a Japanese eVisa application from the US is submitted by a proxy instead of the traveler, a letter of attorney must be submitted which states that a third party is authorized to apply on the American citizen’s behalf.

A proxy is only permitted to apply if the applicant would have difficulty in completing the eVISA application by themselves or in displaying their Visa issuance Notice when checking in for their flight for Japan.

Other Types of Japanese Visas for US Travelers

The short-term visas for Japan for Americans are available through the eVisa application.

The long-term Japan visas for US citizens include:

• General visa : allows individuals to stay in Japan from 3 months to up to 3 years. This type of visa requires a certificate of eligibility and allows travelers to participate in cultural activities.
• Working visa : granted to individuals with particular skill sets or qualifications covering a number of different professions. 
• Specified visa : meant for the spouses and children of Japanese nationals. This type of visa can be valid from 6 months to up to 5 years and requires the appropriate documentation to be submitted along with the application proving Japanese ancestry.
• Diplomatic visa : granted to individuals who engage in activities as part of a diplomatic mission, consular office or embassy or any supportive role affiliated with such. 
• Official visa : granted to businessmen, foreign governments or international organizations recognized by the Japanese government. The maximum allowable length of stay varies for this type of visa.

All of these visa types for Japan for Americans must be applied for from a Japanese embassy or consulate in the US.

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Japan online visa: new tourist eVisa

Japan online visa: new tourist eVisa

Travelers heading to Japan will soon no longer need to queue at a Japanese embassy or consulate to apply for a visa for Japan . The Japanese government is preparing to launch a new Japan eVisa that can be easily obtained online.

The online visa for Japan is part of a wider government plan to boost tourism in Japan. The target is to reach 60 million by 2030. The new tourist visa will make traveling to Japan much more accessible for millions of people around the world.

Online Visa System

The Japan eVisa system   is expected to allow eligible travelers to obtain a single-entry visa for a stay of up to 90 days in the country. 

An approved online visa for Japan is expected to permit visitors to travel to the country for purposes of:

• Visiting relatives

Eligible applicants will be able to complete the online application without needing to visit an embassy or consulate. The whole process will take just a matter of minutes.

Who is eligible for the Japan eVisa?

Due to coronavirus travel restrictions , Canadians and US citizens were temporarily able to apply for a Japan eVisa during the suspension of visa exemptions. Now that visa exemptions have been reinstated, these travelers no longer need to apply for the eVisa . They can now travel to Japan visa-free for Japan for short stays

However, the Japanese government is still planning to launch the eVisa for visa-required nationalities, including Chinese citizens , Vietnam passport holders, and nationals of the Philippines.

It is expected to be made available to these nationalities in the coming months.

When to submit an online visa application

Once the system is launched, it is expected to take up to 5 business days for a Japan online visa to be processed and approved.

Therefore, applicants should submit their request at least 5 days before the intended travel dates to ensure sufficient processing time.

Required documents for the online visa

It is expected that eligible travelers will need to have the following required documents to apply for the online tourist visa or business visa for Japan:

• Valid passport Digital passport-style image of the applicant Valid payment method (credit/debit card)

In some cases, it may be necessary for applicants to submit additional documents upon request in order to finalize their application.

How to apply for the Japan eVisa

It is expected that eligible passport holders will be able to apply for the visa in 4 simple steps:

• Log on to the Japan eVisa website
• Complete the online form with personal, passport, and travel details
• Receive the results of your application via email
• Pay the visa fee stipulated in the email notification

Please note that eligible applicants intending to stay in Japan for more than 90 consecutive days will not be able to do so with an eVisa. In such cases, they must apply for a visa from a Japanese embassy or consulate.

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Visa to Japan » Japan visa types » Japan Tourist Visa

Japan Tourist Visa

• Japan Consultant
• May 10, 2021

The Japan tourism online visa is probably the most often selected type of entry permit when it comes to traveling to this island country. All eligible travelers can either obtain it via an Embassy or online! Applying online is much easier since not only the list of requirements is shorter, but also the processing time.

You can easily get your tourist visa for Japan online by simply filling and submitting an application form. 4 days from now, you’ll be on your way to Japan! Apply 72 hours ahead of the planned trip and get the approved e-Visa delivered straight to your email box.

All you need to apply is your valid passport and any working device with an internet connection. Apply, get your e-Visa, and travel to Japan for up to 30 days to enjoy all leisure-related activities.

Use our guide on how to submit a successful online visa application before your visit to Japan takes place. Read on for further information on the requirements, validity period, and processing time!

Table of Contents

Regular tourist visa for Japan vs. the electronic one

The main difference between the regular visa and the electronic one is the list of requirements and the application process. The requirements for the traditional visa are quite extensive, which makes preparing for applying take a lot of time. On the contrary, all you need for the electronic visa for Japan is your valid passport.

Moreover, regular visa processing may take even up to a few weeks. Whereas the e-Visa is approved within a maximum of 72 hours. You can get the online entry permit without visiting an Embassy since the processed document gets delivered directly to your email box!

Please note ! When applying for your Japan tourist visa online, you will also be granted full assistance from our support team via email and phone.

Japan tourist visa requirements

The regular visa to Japan requires the applicants to appropriately prepare before starting the process. Before submitting your paperwork at the Embassy, it’s essential to collect the necessary documents.

Please prepare:

• an official visa application form: download it from the Japanese government website and fill it with your data
• a passport that will not expire for a minimum of 6 months
• a few photos of the applicant’s face (that adhere to the passport photo size requirements)
• a trip’s itinerary (including flight details and daily plans)
• a bank statement covering the previous three months (to ensure the Japanese government that you will be able to cover the expenses of the trip)
• the most recent Income Tax Return
• birth certificate and marriage certificate

Please note ! Additional documents may be required depending on your situation, e.g., all employed travelers must provide a No Objection Certificate or a Letter of Employment. The Japanese officials will inform you if you should need to deliver any further documents.

Read more…

Japan tourist e-Visa requirements

To ease the whole process, the government of Japan has introduced the electronic visa system. Now, dozens of countries are eligible to get their entry permits online!

This section describes in detail the elementary requirements that all applicants must meet before applying. All you have to do is make sure that:

• you have a passport with a minimum 6-month validity period extending beyond the planned date of arrival in Japan
• your email address is active, and that you have access to it
• you will be able to cover the fees using any preferred online payment method

That’s it! Grabbing your valid passport takes just a moment, and you’ll be all set to start applying for your Japan visa online!

How can I complete the Japan e-Visa application process?

The time and place of submitting the application are up to you since the whole process can be completed online. Use your phone, laptop, or PC, whichever device you find most convenient, and follow 3 simple steps.

Apply anywhere at any time within just a few minutes! Get your passport ready and follow these instructions:

• Complete the application form : fill the online form with some basic personal and travel details, including your nationality, name, email address, and passport information. Next, check the provided data thoroughly to ensure no details are missing and everything is correct.
• Cover the fees : use any online payment method from several available (credit/debit cards, PayPal, PayU) to cover the e-Visa costs.
• Check your email inbox : the approved document is delivered to each applicant via email in a maximum of 72 hours.

TIP ! Your application will be quickly approved if there are no errors or missing information in the online form. Thus, not to elongate the whole process and avoid any delays, make sure to double-check the provided details.

Japan tourist e-Visa validity period

The online Japan visa is 90 days (three months) from the date of approval. Moreover, it serves as a single-entry permit that allows all its holders to stay in Japan for up to 30 days.

You can use your electronic visa for all tourism-related activities. Thus, it’s ideal for any leisure activities, such as exploring Japan as a tourist, going on vacation, and even visiting your friends and family!

Please note ! The validity of your passport must extend beyond the minimum 6-month period starting from the planned date of the trip. Do not lose your travel document or change any data on it since such actions would lead to your e-Visa becoming invalid.

Online Japan tourist visa benefits

Using an online Japan visa grants all eligible travelers numerous benefits! If you’re still unsure whether you should apply for a regular visa or the electronic one, take a look at the following list of advantages of using the e-Visa when traveling to Japan:

• a very short processing time (only 72 hours!)
• the approved document getting delivered to you via email as a PDF file
• a quick and intuitive 3-step application process
• the possibility to apply within minutes anywhere at any time
• a 30-day stay in Japan
• a 3-month validity period
• full assistance of our support team in case of any issues along the way

If that does not convince you, think about the entirely online application process! Apply from home and check your email box. The whole process can be completed in minutes and requires no visits to the Embassy nor a Consulate!

Do I need a tourist visa for Japan?

Some countries can enter Japan without a visa. When planning your trip to this island country, make sure first to check if you need an entry permit or not. Citizens of dozens of countries are now eligible to apply for their Japan visas online! All you have to do is complete a simple 3-step process using your phone, laptop, or any other device.

What documents do I need for the online visa to Japan?

The only document that is required if you decide to apply for a visa to Japan online is your valid passport. Before submitting the form, make sure that your travel document will not expire for at least 6 months from the upcoming trip to Japan.

How can I get a Japan visa?

Getting a visa to Japan can be done in two ways. One, every traveler can submit their application along with a long list of documents to any Japanese Embassy and wait for the approval. The second way to obtain the necessary entry permit to Japan is by applying online. You can now get your e-Visa from home within minutes!

Is it hard to get a Japanese visa online?

It’s not! The whole application process, from start to finish, can be completed online. Grab your passport, spare a few minutes, and fill the application form. Next, simply cover the fees and wait for the approval of your application. Moreover, all applicants who should need any assistance during applying can easily contact our support team via email or phone!

Ultimate Guide to Japanese Visa

By Camilla Vigotti and Yuki Kobayashi Purwanto | April 28, 2022 

Moving to a new country for work or study is a thrilling experience. Once you get your Japan Visa, you will be able to fly to Japan and start a new life. The only obstacle in this process is bureaucracy. Getting all of your paperwork ready to issue your Visa can be extremely stressful and confusing. Not only are there documents and forms you need to correctly fill in, but you also have to go through different offices as well. Moreover, because of the current pandemic, there have been some changes in immigration policies that require additional steps, prepping, and paperwork.

  In this Ultimate Guide, we will provide all the necessary information for you to get your Japanese Visa without too much stress. 

This article is a part of our extensive series on Japanese Culture and Online Japanese Lessons at Japan Switch.

Note: This article does not provide legal advice. If required, please refer to a Visa expert such as Tsuyoshi Kawaguchi or an attorney.

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What Are The Requirements to Get a Visa in Japan?

There are different types of visas in Japan that you can apply for depending on your purpose, economic situation, skills, and country of origin. When it comes to migration, each country has different policies and agreements with Japan so it's important that you are aware of what relationship your country has. 

We will get into details on the different main types of Visas later on, but for now, the general idea is that if you meet one or more of these requirements you are eligible to apply for a Japan Visa.

What if you don’t meet any of those requirements?

If you don’t meet any of the previously mentioned requirements for a Japan Visa, fear not because there are other options that you can consider.

Option 1: Getting Your Japanese Visa Through Your Spouse

If your spouse already has a working Visa, you can apply for a Dependents Visa in Japan . This Visa will allow you to work only part-time, which means 28-hours a week.

Option 2: Apply for a Specified Skills for Work Visa

Due to the labor shortage that Japan is facing, the government introduced the new Specified Skills for Work Visa (特定技能 / tokutei ginou ) . This Visa allows foreigners to work in pre-selected industries for up to five years. To apply for this Visa you need a minimum of an N4 level of Japanese proficiency. Depending on the industry, you might need an N3 or higher. But, a convenient aspect is that you don’t need a university degree.

The following table shows the kinds of jobs you can apply for the Specified Skills for Work Visa with.

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Option 3: Become a Diplomat

If you have diplomatic duties, you can apply for a Diplomatic Visa . The period of stay depends on the length of the mission. This Visa is usually available for ambassadors, diplomacy staff, military, and military-civilian contractors. 

Option 4: Be Your Own Boss

If you are a freelance or self-employed person that makes more than 190,000 yen, you can try to apply for a Self-sponsorship Visa . A similar alternative is an Entrepreneur or Start-up Visa , however, you will need a consistent amount of capital (approximately 5 million yen) or investors that can sponsor both your business idea and Visa in Japan.

Note: The amount you need to make MAY vary depending on where you live. It’s best to speak with a visa consultant before applying for this kind of visa. 

Option 5: Study Under a Master 

If you are a student of an organization with a recognized “master”, you can apply for a Cultural Activities Visa . This special Visa allows foreigners to be one of the few elite students of a master's in a cultural or artistic discipline such as martial arts, ikebana (flower art arrangement), tea ceremony, poetry, and so on. This Visa also includes unpaid internships and religious activities. 

If you want to start learning about some Japanese cultural activities, check out our Gide to Japanese Poem .

How Do You Apply for a Japan Visa?

Applying for a Japanese visa is a process that involves your local Japanese embassy and a supporting institution (or person) in Japan that is sponsoring you such as a university, language school, or company. Because of this, the whole process can take up to 5 months, so it is important to carefully plan your journey ahead of time. 

Due to Covid-19, this process might take even longer. We recommend that you contact your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate to get an estimated time.

What do you need to do?

Preparing the required documents for your japan visa.

First of all, you need to prepare all the necessary documents. Depending on the type of Japan visa that you are applying for and your country of origin, you might need other documents on top of the standard ones. Make sure to check your local Japanese embassy or consulate website. 

In general, you will need to provide:

• Your original passport.
• Visa application form (available on your  Japanese embassy’s website).
• One photograph (35mm x 45mm)

Submitting your Japan Visa application 

Second, you will need to submit your documents. If you are going in person, the whole process will only take a day. You can schedule an appointment via phone or email. 

If you are sending your documents by mail, your Japanese visa will be issued within 3 to 5 business days. However, with delays, it can take up to two months. Remember that when you are sending your application through the post office, you must include a pre-paid envelope/stamp/etc so the staff processing your Japan Visa application can send your passport with the visa back to you.  

After submitting, your application will go through a process of careful examination. In case there are any errors, missing documents, or information you will be contacted by the staff at the embassy or consulate. You might also be contacted if your Japan visa application requires an interview (such as the Japanese spouse and dependent visa). Within 5 months , you will know if your Japanese visa was successfully issued or not and your passport will be returned to you.

Certificate of Eligibility: What is it?

The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is a necessary document for many types of Japanese visas such as a student visa, working visa, or spouse visa. A COE shows the government that you are eligible to receive a visa. The document is issued by the Regional Immigration Bureau before a visa application. 

Applying for a COE for your Japan Visa

To get a COE you will have to complete an application offered by a sponsoring institution that will hand it in, along with the other necessary documents, to the Japanese immigration. You can apply and submit an application for a COE even if you are already in Japan as well. Issuing the COE can take anywhere up to 3 months. Once it is ready, it will be sent to you via mail. You will need to include the original copy of your COE along with a photocopy in your visa application.

Japan Visa During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Because of the current situation with Covid-19, Japan has issued New Border Measures for foreigners who apply for a new entry to Japan and returnees. Since 2020, there have been a variety of changes, so what the procedure is right now, might not be the same as in a few months so be sure to check your embassy website or contact them to confirm that borders are open and if there are any new requirements. 

New documents you need for your Japan Visa: 

• Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System (ERFS) is a system overseen by the health ministry. The visa sponsors (such as universities and language schools) will share applicants’ information via the ERFS who will receive a certificate of compilation that visa applicants must include in their visa applications.  Japan Switch can help sponsor you if you need an ERFS Certificate. Contact us for more information (and a free level check + consultation). For more information, read our Guide to the ERFS Certificate . 
• Written Pledge for traveling individuals to ensure that they will abide and respect quarantine restrictions. Your sponsoring institution will provide you with this document.

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How Long Does a Typical Japan Visa Last?

Usually, a Japanese visa is valid for 6 months, 1, 3, or 5 years. Your period of stay depends on your purpose for coming to Japan. Your first visa will be valid for one year but you might receive a longer period depending on your university program and the amount of tuition you paid. 

Your second-issued Japanese visa can vary. If you are changing jobs it will most likely be issued for one year, if you are renewing for the same company you have been working at, chances are that it will be issued for 3 years or longer.

Japanese Student Visa

A Japanese Student Visa is available for all the students who wish to attend a recognized educational institute such as Japanese schools, trade schools, and universities (undergraduate, MA, Ph.D., and research).  

If you are planning to enroll in a Japanese language school, be aware that there are certain conditions. You can attend a language school for a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 24 months, afterwards, you will not be able to renew your Japanese student visa. 

There are plenty of Japanese language schools across Japan, make sure to check BFF Tokyo’s Find the Right Japanese School in Tokyo for the best tips.

If you wish to stay longer in Japan you have two choices: 

• Finding a full-time job and converting to a working visa
• Advance your academic career and enroll in a university as a student. In this case, you will need to apply for a Japanese Student Visa again which will last until your graduation with potential renewal in between. 

3 things you need to remember about a Student Visa in Japan

First, your Student Visa can be revoked at any point if you don’t pay your tuition. 

Second, you are allowed to work 28 hours per week while on a Japanese Student Visa, however, you must get permission first. To do so, if you are already in Japan, you have to submit a formal application to the migration office. The form is titled “application for permission to engage in activity other than the permitted under the status of residence previously granted” or 資格外活動許可申請書/ Shikakugaikatsudōkyoka shinsei-sho and is available on the Immigration Services Agency of Japan’s website.

Once approved, your residence card ( zairyu card) will show that you are allowed to work. If you are coming to the country, at the non-residential passport area inside the airport you can submit a form on the spot along with your documents to allow you to work. The officer will hand you your brand new zairyu card with the stamp. 

Learn more about zairyu card in our Ultimate Guide to Zairyu Card.

Third, schools usually recommend you to study for a minimum of 6 months because it is easier to issue a Japanese Student Visa rather than transition from a tourist visa to a student visa.

Japanese Holiday Working Visa

The Japanese working holiday visa is a mix between a tourist visa and a working visa. You get enough time to enjoy what the country has to offer and work for up to 40 hours per week. To apply for this visa, your country of origin must have an ongoing agreement with Japan. Currently, 26 countries are holding the program. You can check the current list of eligible countries on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website.

Requirements for a working holiday visa in Japan?

To apply for a working holiday visa, applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old (in most cases) with a minimum of $2,500 in savings available to cover the initial cost of staying, plus enough money to issue a return ticket to the country of origin.  

Moreover, applicants must travel alone without dependents or children, must be in good health, and must be a first-time applicant for a working holiday visa in Japan. If you have already been issued this visa in the past, you will not be eligible for it a second time.

Be careful with choosing your job

Another thing to keep in mind is that lots of companies require you to have approximately 9 months left on your Japan visa. If you have only a couple of months left, the chances of finding full-time employment will be extremely low. 

You are also NOT allowed to work at bars, cabarets, clubs, nightclubs, or gambling establishments. If you are found working for one of these establishments, you will face immediate deportation under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. You might also face criminal charges for promoting illegal work or selling of persons.

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Countries of exceptions 

As mentioned above, there are currently 26 countries that have an ongoing agreement with Japan to issue a working holiday visa. However, some of these countries have certain restrictions and exceptions to formal rules (must be between 16 and 30 years old, must travel alone, must have enough funds to cover the expenses for the first few months and a return ticket). 

The table below shows which countries have expectations for applicants for the working holiday visa.

If the working holiday visa route seems right for you and you just want to test the waters,, read more in the BFF Tokyo Ultimate Guide to Working Holiday in Japan .

Japanese Working Visa

A Japanese working visa is one of the hardest visas to obtain. It allows you to be hired full-time in a variety of sectors with no limitation on the maximum hours per week. The nice thing about a working visa is that your employer will assist you in the process. Your company or workplace will sponsor your Japanese visa and might submit your application to the Immigration Office for you. Keep in mind that the immigration office can still reject the applications in certain cases, such as if you don’t have a university degree. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan offers a list of occupations that are eligible for a working visa in Japan along with extra documents that you might need to provide for your applications. The list of documents includes passport, photo, COE, documentation of personal work history, workplace description (such as registration, statement of loss and profit), and description of the job position at the workplace (role, salary, established working hours).

The table below shows some examples of jobs available and the documents necessary for your Japan visa. 

Finding a job is not easy, regardless of the country. There are many resources you can count on such as specialized websites such as GaijinPot, networking apps like Linkedin, and job fairs. If you are a student attending a Japanese University, you can rely on the career center for some help. Otherwise, read our Ultimate Guide to Full-Time Jobs in Japan .

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Loopholes for a working visa in Japan

If you don’t have a university degree, you can still work in Japan via a Specified Skills Working Visa, Self-employed Visa, and Start-up Visa that we previously covered. 

Otherwise, if you have a lot of experience in your professional field, you can apply for a Skilled Labor Visa. The number of years of experience that you need depends on the field and job type. It can be as little as 3 years and as long as 10 years. Moreover, you might have to provide certificates of employment ( 在職証明書, zaishoku shoumeisho ) for all of your related working experiences (in your specified field). 

Examples of jobs that fall under the Skilled Labor Visa are: chef (in a particular food/cuisine of a foreign country), sommelier, jeweler, animal trainer, pilot, engineer (IT), specialists in humanities, and internal services, and so on.

Japanese Tourist Visa

A Japanese Tourist Visa is for foreign nationals who plan to stay in Japan for 90 days or less for reasons such as: 

• Sightseeing
• Visiting relatives, friends, or a sick person
• Attending a wedding or funeral ceremony
• Participating in athletic tournaments/contests, 
• Business purposes (such as market research, business liaison, business consultation, signing a contract, or providing after-sale service for imported machinery).  

Tourists can stay in Japan for up to 30 days under the single-entry law, however, this tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days. Tourists can also apply for a double-entry visa, which allows them to go for two short excursions in six months. It's worth noting that the Japan tourist visa prohibits tourists from working for a living while in the nation. 

Keep in mind tourists who are visiting Japan, must first get a tourist visa before entering the country. Nonetheless, Japan exempts a number of nations from having to follow this rule. For example, citizens of most European nations, the United States, Australia, and Argentina do not require a Japanese tourist visa since they are visa-exempt for tourism reasons. Nationals from any of those regions are granted Temporary Visitor status, which allows them to stay in Japan for up to 90 days without requiring a visa.

What Documents Do I Need for a Japan Tourist Visa Application?

When you submit a Japanese Tourist Visa application, you need to have several supporting documents. The Japan Tourist Visa requirements are:

• Completed and signed the Japan Tourist Visa Application Form The application form may be downloaded from the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs' website ( here ). Fill in all of the blanks. If none of these apply to you, put "N/A" instead of leaving the field blank.
• Passport (must be valid for at least six months and at least 2 blank pages for the visa to be affixed in)
• Flight Itinerary
• Daily Itinerary
• Residence Certificate (if you are a foreign resident of Japan)
• Bank statements (if you are financing your own trip)
• Latest Income Tax Returns (ITR)
• If you're paying a visit to someone (a friend or family member), bring documentation of your relationship, such as: 
• Relatives/Family members (Civil status documents, such as birth or marriage certificates)
• Friends (Photos, receipts, phone numbers, and a note outlining your friendship)

How can I obtain Japan Tourist Visa?

A Japan Tourist Visa must be obtained via a Japanese Representative Office overseas (Embassy or Consulate) or an approved travel agency. The following is a summary of the application procedure for a Japan Tourist Visa:

1. Make an appointment with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate to submit your application. 

2.  Individual applications are not accepted by several Japanese embassies, thus you must apply through a travel agency. On your behalf, the agency will submit the application to the Embassy or Consulate. 

3. Obtain the necessary documentation for a visa to Japan (see them below) 

4. Submit the necessary documentation to the Embassy/Consulate or a travel agency. 

5. Allow time for the visa application to be processed. Starting the day the Japanese Representative Office receives your completed application, this normally takes 5 business days. 

6. Pick up your passport from the embassy/consulate/travel agency. If your application is granted, your visa will be issued and you will be able to go to Japan within three months of receiving it.

Do I need a Vaccine Passport?

Yes, you do. Keep in mind that since March 2022, Japan has been accepting applications for so-called vaccine passports from people who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, which allows them to travel internationally to certain destinations without having to quarantine.

The vaccination passports, which are available in both Japanese and English, are designed to enable Japanese citizens to evade strict travel restrictions overseas as other countries around the world implement similar procedures to ease the return of business travel and tourism.

A Japanese vaccination passport will include the following information:

• Date of birth 
• Type of vaccination (passport number) 
• Vaccination dates 
• The city in which it was issued

How can I obtain a Vaccine Passport?

Vaccine passports can be applied for in person or by mail, with the government planning a computerized application mechanism at a later date. The records will be available for free, and the administration is working on getting them out on the same day the application procedure would initially differ based on the municipality.  You will also need several documents such as:

• Vaccine passport application form
• Vaccination voucher
• Proof of vaccination

Which countries need a tourist visa to enter Japan?

All non-visa-exempt nations must get a visa to enter Japan. For vacation or commercial purposes, citizens of certain nations can come with a Temporary Visitor status for a limited length of time (15 to 90 days).

Here are the countries that require a Japanese tourist visa in order to enter Japan:

• Philippines

There are also other types of short-term stay visas such as business visas and transit visas.

Business Visa

A business visa is a temporary business visa that allows you to remain for up to 90 days and can be used for single or double entry (if both trips are within a 6-month period). Conferences, meetings, contract signing, and market research are all examples of business reasons.

Transit Visa

A transit visa is for those who plan to stay in one country for the night before continuing on to another. If a visa for the third country is necessary, please get it before applying for a Japanese transit visa.

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How can I sign up for a Japan Tourist e-Visa?

The electronic visa is part of the Japanese government's plan to have 60 million foreign tourists each year by 2030. But, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the launch of the Japan Tourist e-Visa has been postponed until further notice. See your embassy’s website for more information on whether it has been opened up again.

The online application form is simple to fill out. Foreign visitors will need a valid passport in order to complete the e-Visa registration for Japan. It will be necessary for the visitors to provide their personal details including:

• Date & place of birth
• Contact information

The system will gather an applicant’s personal and passport information to automatically evaluate the details provided. So the online visa systems help to determine a traveler’s eligibility. 

The e-Visa will be emailed to applicants once their application has been filed and accepted. Travelers will be allowed to enter the country by presenting their e-Visa at the border. The e-Visa will also be single-entry, and payment by credit or debit card will be required to submit the application.

Japanese Spouse Visa

The Spouse (Dependents) Visa is for any Applicant who will come to Japan as the spouse, unmarried child, or other dependents of a foreigner. You may be eligible for a Japan marriage visa, also known as a spouse visa if you are married to a Japanese citizen . Individuals who wish to stay in Japan for up to three years can apply for these visas, which can be renewed if necessary. Spouse visas can be issued for lengths of either 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years.

If you haven't already arrived in Japan, you'll need to apply for a spouse visa at your nearest Japanese embassy. Those who are already in Japan should submit an application to the Japanese Immigration Bureau. You can check this hyperlink that includes a list of immigration bureaus in each area .

What are some important considerations after I receive my Spouse Visa?

Japanese tax for holders of spouse status of residence (sor).

Spouse (Dependents) SOR is essentially a non-working category, you will have very little interaction with Japanese taxes in most circumstances. However, you might be able to get authorization to do some limited part-time work in some instances. In such instances, your employer will likely manage the majority of your Japan tax concerns. This can be accomplished by monthly withholding tax deductions and a year-end adjustment made as part of the December paycheck. 

If you have many jobs or have additional sources of income, you may be required to file a Japanese tax return by the 15th of March each year. Because there are no extensions available, it is critical that you understand your Japanese tax responsibilities. Complying with your Japanese tax obligations is essential in order to renew your visa.

Taxes when the holder of Spouse (Dependents) SOR leaves Japan

The holder of a Spouse (Dependents) SOR must fully pay her taxes or engage a tax agent before leaving Japan. 

It's also worth knowing that Japanese local taxes are calculated depending on where you live on January 1st of each year. As a result, leaving Japan before the 1st of January may save you money in taxes.

What are the types of spouse visa applications and how can I apply for them?

Application for Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and Application for Change of Status of Residence are the two types of applications for a spouse visa. An application for a Certificate of Eligibility is a request to bring a foreign spouse who lives outside of Japan to Japan. On the other hand, an application for a spouse visa is filed by a foreigner who is in Japan on a visa other than a spouse visa and marries a Japanese person or (special) permanent resident.

Application for Certificate of Eligibility

The first thing you will need to do is to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (also known as a Zairyu Shikaku Nintei Shoumeisho) in Japanese. This can take some time to complete, but having the certificate ready when you apply for your spouse's visa can make the process go much more smoothly. 

To get your Certificate of Eligibility as a spouse of a Japanese national, you’ll need a completed application form, one photograph (4cm long x 3cm wide), a family register of the Japanese nationals (stating that they are married to you), marriage certificates issued by an institution in your home country, letter of guarantee from your Japanese spouse, and a completed questionnaire giving evidence of your marriage. The application forms as well as information for the sponsor are available on the Immigration Services Agency’s page .

Keep in mind that you also should contact an embassy if your Japanese spouse lives outside of Japan and is unable to get a certificate of eligibility in Japan.

When submitting a visa application to an immigration office, a foreigner seeking a spouse visa must go to the immigration office on his or her own. However, because it is difficult for a person residing abroad to travel to an immigration office, an application agent, who is designated by an ordinance of the Ministry of Justice for each status of residence, can submit an application on their behalf. In the case of a spouse visa, for example, "a relative of the foreign citizen resident in Japan" might act as an agent. Please keep in mind that people who are not linked to the person, such as friends, are not eligible to serve as an application agent.

The period of examination takes about 1 to 3 months. That is why it is important to prepare the application for the Certificate of Eligibility carefully, considering such a period of examination.

Application for Change of Status of Residence

Before the date of expiration of the status of residence and after the occurrence of the reason for the change of status of residence. 

The effective creation of a legal marriage is the reason for the change of resident status. 

If you want to convert your status of residence to a spouse visa because you married your partner, you can apply for a spouse visa at any time between the day you started dating your spouse and the date your present status of residence expires.

Just like the Certificate of Eligibility above, for the Application for Change of Status of Residence, administrative scriveners who have submitted a notification to the Director of a Regional Immigration Bureau after completing an application agency training and taking an examination are permitted to submit applications to immigration offices on behalf of applicants or agents of applicants.

A person who intends to alter his or her status of residence must go to the appropriate immigration office and file an application on his or her own. If the individual is unable to attend owing to illness or other circumstances, a relative living with the person can act as an agent to complete the application. The examination period takes about 2 weeks to 1 month.

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What happens to my spouse visa after a divorce in Japan?

If you're a foreign national with a spouse visa/status of residence in Japan and you're getting a divorce, you're probably worried about what will happen to your spouse visa when the divorce is finalized. Don't worry, because we will go over everything you need to know about changing your visa status after a divorce.

If you are curious and want to know more about divorce in Japan, make sure to read our article that covers Everything You Need to Know About Divorce in Japan.

If you divorce your Japanese spouse or get divorced, you must notify the Immigration office within two weeks . The Ministry of Justice website has a Notification of Relationship with Spouse form that you can download or access by clicking here . Then, you need to bring the completed paperwork to the local Immigration office to have your divorce formally registered. 

The law was changed in 2012 so that a foreign spouse of a Japanese person who gets divorced can no longer stay in Japan until their spouse's visa expires. After 6 months have passed since your divorce, the immigration office will withdraw your spouse's visa. That is why you must file a petition for a change of resident status during this 6-month grace period, or you will be forced to leave Japan at the conclusion of the time. If you want to stay in Japan after your divorce, you'll need to file a petition for a change of status of residence because your spouse's visa will expire within 6 months.

Switching your Japan Visa after a divorce

If you are presently employed, your employer may be willing to sponsor a working visa for you. On the other hand, if you have lived in Japan long enough (about 5 years) or if you have a child of Japanese nationality to raise in Japan, you may be able to change your spouse visa to a "Long Term Resident" visa. Keep in mind that the kid must be under the age of 18 and you must have parental authority (child custody) over the child for the prior condition to apply.

So basically, a spouse visa is valid for 6 months after the divorce is filed, and if you want to stay in Japan longer than that, you must file a petition for a change of status of residence. Since the foreign national's status of residence is granted by the Minister of Justice's discretion. You could apply for a Long-Term Resident visa, if you have lived in Japan for 5 years or more, or if you have a child of Japanese nationality under the age of 18.

Advice from a certified Visa Consultant

On our podcast "Japanese with Friends," we had the pleasure of interviewing Tsuyoshi Kawaguchi of HYGGE Visa Office, a qualified Japanese visa adviser. In the podcast, we had a talk about many of the issues that foreigners have concerning the visa application procedure once they have their paperwork ready. You can also listen to the podcast here.

What are some common mistakes foreigners in Japan make on their visa application?

Although it is simple, applicants must supply accurate information. In his recent experience, applicants should be careful of "consistency" between their most current applications and the previous ones.

When applying for the work extension visa, you will complete the necessary documentation and provide any evidence necessary. Inspectors will review everything they have (including what may be in their database) and, if they find a single discrepancy, they will require you to write a letter explaining the discrepancy. Some areas of concern have been: 

• Name of university 
• Graduation date
• Name of your company or previous companies 
• Dates (regarding employment contracts, termination contracts, company joining dates, etc). 

Keep in mind that inspectors can be quite strict with the process. They may simply reject the application owing to inconsistencies without hearing from the applicant. Once an application has been refused, it is extremely difficult to reverse the situation or obtain future acceptance. That is why visa applicants must constantly be cautious and provide accurate information at each application.

What tips do you have for people doing self-sponsorship in Japan?

Mr. Kawaguchi tends to get a lot of questions regarding self-sponsorship. In fact, many freelancers and ordinary firm employees are covered by a general working visa, the "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services'' visa. The most important requirement for obtaining a self-sponsored visa is that the applicant receives money from clients on a regular and consistent basis. They must also ask one of their clients to serve as their "visa sponsor."

According to Mr. Kawaguchi, even though the visa applicant is not a firm employee, they must request an application form with company information and present tax records. 

Clients such as freelancers, business consultants, web designers, engineers, and other professionals sent photocopies of contracts with a few organizations and requested cooperation from their primary customers with the visa application. 

He is also frequently asked about the minimum monthly income as a visa specialist. On SNS, many people say things like "3 million yen every year," "250,000 yen per month," and so on. There is no publicly available information, however, 200,000 yen per month is the very least in his experience. “For example, if you get 600,000 yen from a customer in the next three months for a three-month project, you will be good on a monthly basis”.

Tsuyoshi Kawaguchi, a registered visa consultant (immigration attorney for Japanese visas) with over seven years of experience in Tokyo and over 3,000 visa applications under his service, wrote this information. If you're interested and want to know more about using his services, you may contact him through his LinkedIn profile or his website, Hygge Visa Japan .

What exactly do you do as a visa specialist?

Gyoseishoshi , his work title, and license name is a legal profession in Japan. They basically prepare documentation, file government licenses and permissions, and give legal guidance. They are not attorneys and are unable to represent consumers in legal proceedings both inside and outside of the courtroom. They are believed to be able to handle over 2,000 different forms of official papers. In Japan, there are over 50,000 Gyoseishoshi attorneys, each of whom has a specialization. Mr. Kawaguchi is an expert in visas and immigration. There are around 8,000 to 9,000 Gyoseishoshi licensed to handle visa affairs, including himself.

How do you help foreigners?

Mr. Kawaguchi provides English counseling services through email, phone, and face-to-face, as well as a list of required papers in both English and Japanese, so that his clients may correctly correct paperwork from the firm and public agencies such as city offices and tax offices. After the preparation, he would file the visa applications on behalf of his customers, so that they do not need to visit the Immigration Office.

Is it faster to process my Visa through you?

The answer is no, the Immigration examination duration is the same. Even if you ask him or any other professional, there is no way to shorten the time it takes for the visa to be processed. Visa applications are simply examined on a first-come, first-served basis by the Immigration Bureau. The difference is that Mr. Kawaguchi will give suitable information and techniques to ensure that the process runs smoothly and that mistakes such as a lack of paperwork do not create delays.

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What is the immigration experience like for you (special line, special privileges)?

As visa specialists, they have a significant amount of responsibility, both positively and negatively. Why? because visa applications have the potential to transform applicants' lives in the future. Needless to say, they must constantly use extreme caution. “The best part is that my consumers are happy and satisfied with my services when the procedure is done successfully. My clients sometimes treat me like a God, especially when Permanent Residence visa applications are accepted”, as quoted by Mr. Kawaguchi. 

They always have a great deal of responsibility, but that is why, not only as visa specialists but also as people, they may have fantastic and priceless experiences. It's a B to C company with a lot of responsibilities. It can be tough to persuade immigration officials to accept visa applications at times. On the other hand, Mr. Kawaguchi thinks that there are very few jobs that bring this kind of priceless experience that customers express great appreciation for.

What type of immigration cases do you normally not accept?

After visa petitions are denied, Mr. Kawaguchi frequently receives several inquiries. The first thing he needs to do is figure out what were the main reasons for rejection. If the reasons are evident and there is a chance of getting a reapplication approved, he will thoroughly explain the situation, the potential, and the risk to his customer. “I take care of the matter if the customer agrees with my explanation. I definitely do not accept candidates who do not meet the basic qualifications. For example, I don't handle Permanent Residence applications unless they meet the Immigration Bureau's basic standards”.

What is the ratio of visa-type processes that you handle?

Approximately 70% of visa applications are for work visas, 10% are for Permanent Residence, 10% are for family visas for spouses and children, and 10% are for other sorts of visas.

What advantages will I get from working with you?

There are three points to consider. First, most visa agents are only open during the day, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays. However, most people are busy with their jobs. But, Mr. Kawaguchi is a very flexible freelancer that works all year and even in the evenings on a daily basis. It implies that when clients have free time, he may give consultancy services and respond to their queries so that it appears to be customer-friendly. 

Secondly, He has worked in this field for over 9 years and has handled over 3,000 instances.

Thirdly, he has a personal experience living in another country, specifically in Spain for a year between 2003 and 2004. Since he didn't speak Spanish very well at the time, he found himself in a lot of tough circumstances. However, he now realizes that knowing how tough it is to live in another country was a priceless experience. Mr. Kawaguchi imagined that for English speakers, Japan is not the most convenient or user-friendly place. He believes that he can comprehend the concerns of non-Japanese people and the hardships of living in Japan because of his experience in another country. “My clients' sentiments and ideas are always respected by me”.

Final Thoughts

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

There are several more visa categories that aren't included in the major categories listed above. The SOFA visa (for military personnel stationed in Japan or on orders), the investor visa, and the skilled foreign worker visa are among them. Also, don't forget to contact your local Japanese embassy or consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for further information on such visas, as well as the ones mentioned above. 

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Japan rolls out tourist e-Visa for Indians; Here’s how to apply it

Japan evisa for indians: the application process remains centralised through the visa application centres managed by vfs global, streamlining the procedure. here's how to apply for japan e-visa..

Japan Tourist E-Visa for Indians: Effective April 1, 2024, onwards, Japan has commenced the issuance of eVisas for Indian tourists, the newly introduced system that eliminates the need for physical visa stickers in passports.

This innovative programme enables applicants to electronically apply for visas through designated Japan Visa Application Centres operated by VFS Global. Specifically tailored for tourism purposes, the Japan eVisa offers a single-entry short-term visa allowing a stay of up to 90 days in Japan. 

The eligibility extends to both Indian citizens and foreign nationals residing in India, and the application process remains centralised through the Visa Application Centres managed by VFS Global, streamlining the procedure.

For Indian citizens seeking a Japan tourist visa, h ere is how to initiate the Japan visa application process:

Step 1: visit the official website..

• To start the application, individuals need to visit the Japan Visa Application Centre’s official website, managed by VFS Global, at https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/jpn/ .

Step 2: Download and fill out the application form.

• Click on this link and choose  Temporary Visitor Visa .
• Check all the requirements for the visa and download the visa application form from the website.
• Complete the form accurately, print it in its entirety, and ensure all required fields are filled.
• Prepare photocopies of the necessary documents for the single-entry short-term tourism visa.

Step 3: Book an appointment.

• Schedule an appointment to submit your application at the Visa Application Centre.
• Upon booking, one will receive an appointment confirmation email containing the letter of appointment.

Step 4: Apply and await the decision.

• Present the completed visa application form at the centre during your appointment.
• Wait for an email notification indicating when your decision is ready for collection at the Visa Application Centre.
• Track the visa application status online using the reference number from the invoice or receipt issued by the centre, along with your date of birth.

Successful applicants for the eVisa will receive an electronic visa instead of having a traditional visa sticker attached to their passports. However, travellers are required to display a “visa issuance notice” on their phones when they arrive at the airport as part of the operational process.

Step 5: Display the issuance notice:

• During airport check-in, you will need to show the “visa issuance notice” on your device. The travel agency will provide you with a “Visa Issuance Notice” containing a two-dimensional barcode, available in printed or PDF format.
• Scan the two-dimensional barcode using your device and input the necessary details to access the notice.
• Tap “Display” to view the electronic “visa issuance notice.” Upon display, a countdown timer will initiate at the top right corner, indicating the validity of the notice.

By adhering to these guidelines and fulfilling the stipulated criteria, Indian travellers can smoothly navigate the process to secure a Japan tourist e-visa, enhancing their travel experience in Japan.

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Japan begins issuing evisas for indian tourists; here's how to apply and use the evisa.

Japan introduced eVisas for Indian tourists, offering a 90-day stay for tourism purposes. Applicants can apply through VFS Global, receive electronic visas, and must display a visa issuance notice with a two-dimensional barcode during airport check-in.

Travelling to Japan? Your immigration check will begin before you even board your flight

Indians can now visit 62 countries visa-free; Check the full list to know more

Travel planning 101: 52 places you must visit in 2024

How to display “visa issuance notice”

• When checking-in at the airport, you will be requested to display a “visa issuance notice” on your device. Travel agency will provide you a "Visa Issuance Notice" (printed or pdf data) with two dimensional barcode.
• Scan the two dimensional barcode with your device and enter the required information to display the notice.
• By tapping “Display“, the electronic "visa issuance notice" appears and the countdown timer shown at the top right starts immediately. This countdown proves that the notice is valid.

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