japanese tourist visa in usa

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

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

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

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

Enjoy the Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Japan

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Prior to the Application

Q1: i want to go to japan. do i need a visa.

A1: People of some countries (or from some regions) do not need a visa if their period of stay in Japan is 90 days or less and they are not going to be engaged in income-earning activities. Refer to the List of Countries and Regions that have Visa Exemption Arrangements with Japan .

Q2: I want to invite a foreign national to Japan. What procedures are necessary?

A2: (1) In the case of an invitation for the purpose of a short-term stay (in the case that you are inviting relatives or friends, employees of a company with which you do business, etc. for a period of stay of 90 days or less and will not be paying them an income), please write a Letter of Reason for Invitation and draw up a Schedule of Stay. If you are inviting a person from China / Russia / CIS countries / Georgia, and if you will pay travel expenses instead of the visa applicant (who wishes to come to Japan), a Letter of Guarantee, the certificate of residence of the guarantor, and documents confirming the capacity of the guarantor to pay the expenses should also be prepared in addition to the above documents regardless of the applicant's nationality. (2) In the case of an invitation for the purpose of a long-term stay (spouse, working, studying, etc.), it is recommended that you start by applying to your nearest Regional Immigration Service Bureau to have a Certificate of Eligibility issued. (3) Once you have prepared all of the above documents, send them to the visa applicant. Check here for details.

Q3: What should I do to get a Certificate of Eligibility?

Q4: the certificate of eligibility will not arrive by the time i apply for a visa. can i still apply for a visa with its copy.

A4: From March 17, 2023, it will be possible to receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) by email and to apply for landing by presenting the email. When applying for a visa, the application can be accepted by presenting the email or submitting the printed copy. For those who have a paper Certificate of Eligibility, they can also apply for landing and a visa by submitting its printed copy after March 17.

Q5: Is it necessary to go to the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General by myself to apply for a visa?

A5: There are four ways to apply for a visa: (1) the visa applicant him/herself goes directly to the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General, (2) the visa applicant writes a Letter of Proxy and get a proxy to go to the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General in his / her place, (3) the visa applicant uses an accredited travel agent approved by the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General and (4) the visa applicant uses the JAPAN eVISA website and apply for visa online. However, depending on the circumstances in your country or region, there are cases that the documents should only be submitted by the applicant him/herself going to the Japanese Embassy/Consulate General, or through an accredited travel agent. Check with the embassy or consulate general to which you plan to apply before making the application . For information on the countries/region where the JAPAN eVISA website is available, please refer to the online visa application page .

Q6: Can I apply for a visa at the nearest Japanese Embassy / Consulate General while traveling in a foreign country?

A6: You can apply for the visa at the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General in your own country (region) or country (region) of residence (if there is more than one, apply to the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General nearest from where you live). In other words, you cannot apply for a visa at your travel destination; however, if there are unavoidable circumstances, consult with the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General where you would like to apply for the visa before making the application.

Q7: Why was my visa application not accepted?

A7: If any of the following cases apply to you, your application may not be accepted.

• (1) Applications from persons holding Japanese nationality
• (2) The application is made to the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General outside your country (region) of birth or country (region) of residence
• (3) You currently hold a valid visa or re-entry permit
• (4) Your previous visa application to visit Japan for a specific purpose was rejected and you reapply to visit Japan for the same purpose within six months from the rejection
• (5) The visa application is already being processed at a different Japanese Embassy / Consulate General
• (6) There are some errors or omissions in the submitted documents
• (7) The period of validity or the visa attachment space of your passport is insufficient
• (8) The application is made by a person who does not have the qualifications to make a proxy application
• (9) An application for issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility is still pending

2. Application Examination

Q1: how long is the application examination period.

A1: The standard processing period, when it does not have any problem on contents of the application, takes five working days from the next day after the date of the acceptance of application. Meanwhile, it may take longer than usual if a large number of visa applications converge at a short-time period. In addition, please note that it may take more than 5 working days (ranging from a couple of weeks to several months) in such cases where additional confirmation is required (submission of additional documents, an interview with the applicant, inquiries, etc.), or when a visa application is made for a long-term stay without a Certificate of Eligibility. Thus, visa applicants are recommended to apply early for their visa well in advance of the anticipated travel date.

Q2: Why was I asked to provide additional documents?

A2: Sometimes additional information will be required for the examination process, and sometimes you will be asked in the process to submit extra documents in addition to the documents indicated as the necessary documents. Each applicant has different conditions and circumstances, and sometimes we do not become aware of these until the application has been accepted, therefore there are some documents that we do not ask everyone to submit from the beginning. If you do not submit the additional documents, the examination cannot be processed any further, and you will not be able to get the visa issued.

Q3: My departure date is approaching so could you issue the visa as soon as possible?

A3: We cannot make a decision about whether to issue or reject the visa application until the necessary examination has been completed. We process the applications fairly in the order in which we received them. Apply for the visa as soon as possible once your travel plan has been decided.

3. Issuance or Rejection of the Visa Application

Q1: tell me why you rejected my visa application..

A1: The reason for the rejection is that your application did not meet the criteria of visa issuance . We do not give you the specific reason of the rejection because if we do so, the information would eventually become known to the public. Once that happened, there is a danger that some people might misappropriate such information to get around the visa examination process and try to enter Japan for illegal purposes. It would impede the proper visa examination process in the future and have negative effects on Japanese society. The Administrative Procedure Act, Article 3, Paragraph 1, Item 10 excludes "dispositions concerning departure and immigration of foreign nationals" from application of the obligation to show the examination criteria or the reasons for the rejection of the application.

Q2: Why was my visa application rejected even though a Certificate of Eligibility was issued?

A2: The Certificate of Eligibility does not guarantee the issuance of the visa. The certificate means that the Ministry of Justice certifies that the foreign national meets the condition of landing (entering Japan): the activity which the foreign nationals wish to engage in Japan at the time of the landing examination is not fraudulent, and the activity is qualified to acquire status of residence that is stipulated in the Immigration Control Act, etc. Therefore, in the visa examination process, we do not examine the applicability of status of residence, but some other points such as the verification of the applicant's identity and the validity of his/ her passport. If it is found that the application does not meet the criteria of visa issuance in the process of examination, or it is determined that the Certificate of Eligibility was issued based on mistaken or fraudulent information, a visa will not be issued.

Q3: Why can't I reapply immediately after my visa application was rejected?

A3: We do not accept your visa application if your previous application was rejected and you will apply for the same purpose of visit within six months from the rejection. This is because if, for example, we accept the same application the day after it was rejected, the circumstances of the applicant would not change so that the result of examination would be the same. However, we sometimes accept re-applications within six months in cases where your circumstances have changed significantly after the rejection, and travel to Japan is necessary for humanitarian reasons. Consult with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply for the visa before making the application.

Q4: Can I pay visa issuance fees with a credit card or a check?

A4: In principle, fees must be paid in cash using the local currency. In case that you apply for eVISA through the JAPAN eVISA website, online payment by credit card is available for certain countries and regions. You will not be required to pay visa issuance fees if the visa is not issued.

4. Prior to Entering Japan

Q1: i want to postpone my travel. until when is my visa valid.

A1: The period of validity of a single-entry visa (that becomes invalid as soon as once you enter Japan) is basically three months. Enter Japan within three months of the issuance of the visa. If you wish to postpone your travel for longer than three months, you will be required to make another visa application.

Q2: I have decided not to invite a foreign national to Japan after all. What should I do?

A2: Please report that you have cancelled the invitation, together with the personal identification information of the visa applicant, by email to the Embassy / Consulate General where the visa was issued. In addition, tell the visa applicant to bring his/her passport to the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General to cancel his/her visa. Note that visa fees will not be refunded even if the visa is cancelled before being used.

Q3: I have lost my passport with the visa in it. What should I do?

A3: Contact the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General that issued the visa to inform what happened. Also, it is recommended that you submit a lost property form to the local police station. If you need a new visa, you must make an application again.

Q4: Why was my application to enter Japan rejected even though I had a valid visa?

A4: A visa is no more than one of the requirements for the application to land in Japan and it does not guarantee that you will be able to enter Japan. (There is a warning on the visa application form and your signature on the application form means you have accepted this fact.) Even if you have a valid visa, sometimes you will not be given permission to enter Japan, for example in cases where the person who makes the landing application is different from the person whose name is recorded in the visa, and also in cases where you cannot properly explain to the immigration officer the activities you plan to engage in after entering Japan.

Q1: How will the personal information submitted at the time of visa application be handled?

A1: The personal information of the visa applicant, inviting person and guarantor will be managed appropriately in the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General based on the Act on the Protection of Personal Information. Also, local travel agencies that wish to handle visa applications have to get the approval by Japanese embassies /consulates, and the condition of such approval is that they have agreed to manage personal information appropriately based on the aforementioned act, under the same criteria as the outsourcing organization.

Q2: What is the legal basis for the issuance or non-issuance of my visa?

A2: Under the international customary law, the decision as to whether or not to issue a visa to a foreign national is determined to be a sovereign act of each country. Japanese consuls carry out the administration related to visas based on the Act for Establishment of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Article 4 Item 13, Article 7 Item 1, and Article 10 Item 2 and Item 3).

Q3: Isn't the refusal of a visa for a spouse of Japanese an infringement of human rights?

A3: Entering Japan is not a right of a person of foreign nationality, so this is not an infringement of human rights. On the other hand, there are sometimes cases of human trafficking in which people from developing countries in an economically and socially vulnerable position are brought to developed countries for fake marriages, illegal work, etc. With this issue in mind, Japan is carrying out careful visa examinations in order to protect the human rights of foreign nationals, etc.

Q4: Isn't it unfair that people from countries which exempt Japanese from tourist visas, are required to get a visa to enter Japan?

A4: Visa exemptions are not necessarily bilateral. For example, there are many cases in which developing countries give visa exemptions to Japanese as a unilateral measure because accepting travelers from Japan is economically advantageous for those countries. However, on the other hand, if Japan gave visa exemptions to people from all of those countries, there could be a negative impact on the internal security and national interest of Japan. For example, it could lead to an increase in the number of illegal overstayers and illegal workers, etc. Therefore, it is necessary to consider visa exemptions carefully from a comprehensive perspective.

Q5: As a “guarantor”, to what extent do I need to be responsible?

A5: The "guarantor" for the visa application is the person who resides in Japan and makes a promise to the head of the embassy / consulate (the Japanese ambassador/ consul-general, etc.) to the effect that the visa applicant will stay legally in Japan. The responsibilities of the guarantor only entails moral responsibilities and does not entail legal responsibilities like that of the "guarantor" in the Civil Code. However, if it is recognized that the guaranteed matters (expenses for the applicant's stay in Japan, return travel expenses, compliance with laws and regulations) have not been performed rightly, that person would lose credibility as a guarantor in subsequent visa applications. Also, be aware that if the guarantor or inviting person made a false statement in the documents about their relationship to the visa applicant or the purpose of visit, or if that caused terrorists to enter Japan or crime such as human trafficking, they may be held criminally responsible.

• Application
• Requirements

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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Ultimate Guide: How to Travel to Japan from the US

Planning a trip to Japan from the US can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The Land of the Rising Sun offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic temples, indulging in delicious cuisine, or experiencing the bustling city life, Japan has something for everyone. In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Japan from the US.

Best time to plan your trip

Visa requirements for us citizens, top destinations to visit in japan, local customs and etiquette to know, transportation options within japan, must-try japanese cuisine, frequently asked questions about travel to japan from the us, expert advice.

When it comes to visiting Japan, timing is everything. The country experiences four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm. The best time to plan your trip depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to partake in.

1. Spring (March to May): Spring is a popular time to visit Japan, especially for cherry blossom enthusiasts. The sakura season usually begins in late March and lasts until early April. This is when cherry trees bloom, creating a stunning pink landscape.

2. Summer (June to August): Summer in Japan is hot and humid, but it’s also a great time to explore the country’s beautiful beaches and enjoy outdoor festivals. Just be prepared for the occasional typhoon.

3. Autumn (September to November): Fall is another picturesque season in Japan, with vibrant autumn foliage. It’s an ideal time for nature lovers and hikers, as the weather is mild and pleasant.

4. Winter (December to February): If you’re a fan of winter sports or want to experience the magic of snow-covered landscapes, then winter is the best time to visit Japan. The country offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Before traveling to Japan, US citizens need to ensure they have the necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and a visa. Fortunately, Japan offers a visa waiver program for US citizens, allowing them to stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.

Here are the key requirements for US citizens:

• A valid US passport with at least six months of validity remaining
• A return or onward ticket
• Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay
• No criminal record

It’s important to note that the visa requirements may change, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website of the Embassy of Japan for the most up-to-date information.

Japan is a country full of diverse and captivating destinations. Here are some of the top places you should consider visiting:

• Tokyo: The bustling capital city offers a mix of tradition and modernity. Explore historic temples, visit high-tech neighborhoods, and indulge in delicious street food.
• Kyoto: Known for its numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kyoto is a must-visit destination for history buffs. Explore ancient temples, traditional gardens, and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
• Osaka: Famous for its vibrant food scene, Osaka is a culinary paradise. Don’t miss trying local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
• Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the tragic history of Hiroshima. It’s a powerful and moving experience.
• Hokkaido: If you’re a nature lover, Hokkaido is the perfect destination. Explore national parks, go hiking, and indulge in fresh seafood.
• Nara: Home to friendly deer and ancient temples, Nara is a great day trip from Kyoto or Osaka.

When traveling to Japan, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local customs and etiquette. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

• Bowing: Bowing is a common form of greeting in Japan. The depth of the bow depends on the situation, but a slight nod of the head is usually sufficient for casual encounters.
• Shoes: In Japan, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering homes, traditional restaurants, and some temples. Look for shoe racks or follow the lead of locals.
• Public transportation: Keep your voice low and avoid talking on your phone while using public transportation. It’s also polite to give up your seat to elderly or disabled individuals.
• Onsen etiquette: If you plan to visit a traditional Japanese hot spring or onsen, make sure to follow the bathing etiquette, such as washing yourself thoroughly before entering the bath.

Japan has an extensive and efficient transportation system, making it easy to get around the country. Here are some popular transportation options:

• Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The Shinkansen is a high-speed train network that connects major cities in Japan. It’s a convenient and comfortable way to travel long distances.
• Local trains: Japan’s local train network is well-developed and reliable. It’s a cost-effective option for shorter distances and exploring within cities.
• Metro: Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka have extensive metro systems. They are efficient and can take you to popular tourist attractions.
• Buses: Buses are a convenient option for traveling to remote areas or smaller towns not serviced by trains. They are also a good choice for day trips.

No trip to Japan is complete without indulging in the country’s delicious cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Sushi: Fresh and flavorful, sushi is a quintessential Japanese dish. Try a variety of nigiri, maki rolls, and sashimi.
• Ramen: Japan’s beloved noodle soup dish comes in various styles, such as shoyu, miso, and tonkotsu. Each region has its own unique flavors.
• Takoyaki: These savory octopus balls are a popular street food in Japan. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Tempura: Tempura consists of lightly battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables. It’s often served with a dipping sauce.
• Matcha: Matcha is a powdered green tea used in traditional tea ceremonies. Try matcha-flavored sweets and beverages.

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Japan from the US?

A: US citizens can stay in Japan for up to 90 days without a visa under the visa waiver program. However, it’s important to have a valid passport and meet other entry requirements.

Q: What is the best time to visit Japan from the US?

A: The best time to visit Japan depends on your preferences. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are popular for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Summer offers outdoor festivals, while winter is ideal for winter sports.

Q: How long does it take to travel from the US to Japan?

A: The duration of the flight from the US to Japan depends on the departure and arrival cities. On average, it takes around 12-14 hours for a direct flight.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Japan?

A: Japan is generally considered a safe country for travelers. However, it’s always important to take common-sense precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

When traveling to Japan from the US, it’s essential to plan ahead and make the most of your trip. Here are some expert tips:

• Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your travel experience and show respect to the locals.
• Research and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Try to immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in traditional activities like tea ceremonies or wearing a kimono.
• Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and exploring in Japan.
• Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel extensively within the country. It offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen.

With this ultimate guide and expert advice, you’re now equipped to plan your trip to Japan from the US. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo, admiring the beauty of Kyoto’s temples, or savoring delicious local cuisine, Japan promises an unforgettable experience.

Izumi Kenta

Hi, I’m Izumi Kenta from Japan. By profession, I worked as a tourist guide and interpreter in Japan. Besides this profession, I’m a hobbyist blogger. I love to talk about different things about Japan and share them with a wider audience who wants to know about my country. To share my thoughts, I’ve created this site Visitjapan and brought some Japanese travel enthusiasts and tourists worldwide to share their experiences.

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USA ESTA Visa Waiver Requirements for Japanese Citizens

• Simplified Application Form
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• Approved visa or money back

Japanese travelers who plan to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes can apply for the US ESTA (also known as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization).

This allows visitors from Japan to avoid the longer, more complicated visa application process at a diplomatic mission. The ESTA can be obtained online at the traveler’s convenience.

To obtain the ESTA, applicants must meet a few requirements and fill out an online application.

Remember to fill in a US ESTA application form before a trip to the United States of America.

US ESTA for Japan

All Japanese citizens who are planning to arrive in the United States at any air, land or sea crossing for short stays will be required to apply for an ESTA travel authorization.

The process of applying for an ESTA from Japan is quick and easy. In fact, applicants will only need about 15 minutes to fill out the online application and pay the processing fee.

Applicants can expect to receive their US ESTA for Japanese citizens within 2 business days of applying. In most cases, the approval comes instantly.

The US ESTA for Japanese travelers is valid for 2 years,  or until the associated passport expires, and allows you to stay in the United States for a maximum of up to 90 days . Since the ESTA is a multi-entry authorization, travelers may enter and exit the country as much as they want, as long as it is within the allotted time frame.

US ESTA Benefits for Japanese Citizens

The ESTA has several benefits for Japanese citizens.

The main benefit is the quick and convenient application process.

Applying online means that Japanese travelers do not need to visit their nearest US embassy , have an in-person interview, or submit folders of paperwork in order to be approved for a US visa. Applying for the ESTA from Japan is a much more streamlined system than most other visa application processes.

Secondly, the ESTA was implemented to increase border security in the USA by running background checks on travelers who are part of the Visa Waiver Program. This makes it much easier for the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), who had limited ability to perform background checks on visa-exempt travelers before the ESTA was introduced.

Finally, Japanese travelers are able to use a US ESTA for a variety of purposes , including traveling around the country (tourism), visiting business associates or attending career expos (business), or simply transiting through the country onto their next destination.

US ESTA Requirements for Citizens of Japan

To apply for the US ESTA from Japan, there are a handful of required documents and items. The requirements for Japanese travelers state that the applicant should have:

• Valid Japanese passport . The applicant’s passport needs to be valid on the intended date of arrival in the United States
• Valid payment method . To complete and submit the ESTA application, travelers must pay the application fee. This can be done with a valid debit or credit card
• Device with internet access . In order to fill out the application, travelers will need to use a device that has internet access, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer
• Valid email address. Finally, travelers are required to enter a valid email address on their application. This is to ensure that all notifications regarding the US ESTA status will be promptly delivered after the authorization has been approved

How can I apply for the US ESTA from Japan?

The first step in obtaining a US ESTA for Japanese citizens is to complete the online application form . The application is very straightforward and easy to understand, and will only take 15 minutes of your time.

The application will ask for various pieces of information, which includes the traveler’s personal details , such as their first name and last name; passport information, including the passport number, nationality, date of issue, and date of expiry; and contact information, including their address and email.

During the second part of the application, the form will also contain a couple of questions about the applicant’s previous travels to the United States (if any), their health history, employment, and criminal background.

After the form has been filled in and completed, applicants will need to pay the ESTA application fee with a valid form of payment, such as a debit card or credit card.

Applicants often get their US ESTA approved instantly, and can expect to receive it within 2 business days . In rare cases, it may take a little longer. Some possible causes for delays include high demand, public holidays, or the need for the CBP to do a further background checks.

Although it is not required to do so, we encourage applicants to print out their ESTA email in case the gate agent asks to see it during boarding. However, as the approved ESTA is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport , this is not usually necessary.

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Disclaimer Handyvisas.com is not owned by, or affiliated with any government agency. We are a private, online agency that provides assistance in submitting applications for tourist visits to different countries around the world. Applications can also be made directly through government websites.

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What is a U.S. Visa?

A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship.

Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel. The Visa section of this website is all about U.S. visas for foreign citizens to travel to the United States.

(Note: U.S. citizens don’t need a U.S. visa for travel, but when planning travel abroad may need a visa issued by the embassy of the country they wish to visit. In this situation, when planning travel abroad, learn about visa requirements by country, see country information in the International Travel Section section of this website.)

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How to Apply for a US Visit Visa in Japan

If planning for a US trip has been on your radar for quite some time now, then you should know the general requirements you’ll have to prepare to get your application underway.

If you’ve tried applying for other types of visit visas such as the Schengen tourist visa , then you know that getting all the needed documents requires ample time – at least two months before your intended date of travel overseas. If you’re visiting the US for travel and leisure, then you will have to apply for a B-2 (visitor) visa in Japan first. Here’s how:

Applying for a US Visit Visa in Japan

Under the B-2 Visa, it is understood that your sole purpose of travel to the US involves purposes such as recreation, tourism, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment, as well as activities which are of social, fraternal or service in nature. Applying for a US tourist visa involves the following:

 Requirements

• A completely filled-out NonImmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form which you can access and read more about from this website .
• Your valid and original passport for your travel in the US. The passport’s travel validity must be at least six (6) months after your intended stay in the US. If you are travelling with company, each person must file an application for a Tourist Visa.
• All your previous travel documents (i.e. expired passports and visas) during the last ten (10) years.
• One (1) recent colour 2”x 2” photograph in white background (to be attached on the upper left-hand corner of the DS-160 confirmation page).
• A letter of your interview appointment schedule issued by this website .
• Non-Japanese citizens will also have to submit copies of both sides of their Japanese Alien Registration or “Zairyu” Card

Note: You may also bring supporting documents to strengthen your visa application that you can provide the receiving consular officer.  You may consider the following supporting documents for your visa application:

• Your current proof of financial standing (proof of income, tax statements, assets, property or business ownership)
• Your travel schedule and/or other details of your trip to the US
• A letter of employment from the company you work for, indicating your employment status and details such as your job position, employment start date, your salary, your authorized vacation or business leave, if any, for your trip to the US.
• Any criminal or court records relating to any prior arrest or imprisonment anywhere, even if your case had been pardoned or if you have served your sentence.
• Complete the DS-160 form and print a copy of the confirmation page. You will need the DS-160 number to book an appointment for your visa interview.

Important: Make sure that all the pieces of information you input on your DS-160 Application form are factual and correct. Once you have submitted your DS-160 Form online, you will shortly receive the DS-160 Confirmation Page for printing. Remember to bring this on your day of interview.

• Pay the required visa application service fee as detailed on this page .
• Login using the credentials you entered to settle your visa payment to access your profile and dashboard. Click ‘Continue’ on the left-hand side options. You will be prompted to select from a list of available dates for your visa interview.
• Go to the US Embassy or Consulates on your scheduled date and time of interview.

Important: When your visa application has been accepted for processing, your passport will be typically retained at the consulate or embassy you applied at for a week at most. Should you need your passport for other purposes such as for traveling overseas within this time period, it is best to reschedule your visa appointment interview to a date when you have returned in the country, if possible.

• Once your visa has been approved, the documents will be sent via mail to the designated address you selected when you scheduled your interview appointment.

N ote: It’s important to review the guidelines posted on the Track and Retrieve my Passport page to make sure that your passport document is delivered on time and without fail.

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How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

To enter the U.S., you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship along with your visa. Officials at your port of entry into the U.S. will also issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94 and how to apply .

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check to see if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visa

The visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa, is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

• B-1 for business travel
• B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

• Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
• How to apply
• What documents you will need
• Application fees
• How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

How to renew a visitor visa

You must renew your visitor visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas within the U.S.

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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