Do I Need a Visa for Japan?

When planning any trip it is very important to check the entry requirements for the country that you will be visiting. Whether you require a visa for Japan depends on the country that you reside in as well as the length of your stay. Citizens from many nations (see list below) can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors cannot overstay this visa-free entry unless they acquire the appropriate visa.

Those who receive this 90-day entry period are required to complete an entry form which will usually be handed out on the plane or upon arrival. Visitors may be required to show evidence of an ongoing flight.

All those who plan to work or study in Japan will be required to apply for the relevant visa from their local Japanese embassy. Any queries about visa entry can be dealt with by contacting your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. It is important to note that it is illegal to work in Japan in any form without a visa, regardless of nationality. If you are undertaking temporary or casual employment, make sure to check which visa you require. Unlike other countries, when visiting Japan passports only need to be valid for the duration of your stay.

Read more about Japanese travel FAQs, such as what to pack for your trip to Japan and how to get around Japan.

 visa for Japan

Countries That Need a Visa to Visit Japan

Nations who are required to apply for a Short-Term Stay visa:

  • The Republic of China
  • Russia
  • The Commonwealth of Independent States
  • Philippines
  • India
  • Vietnam
  • Qatar
  • Pacific Islands
  • Indonesia
  • Mongolia
  • Lao
  • Albania
  • Kosovo
  • Montenegro
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Vatican
  • Colombia
  • Ecuador
  • Saudia Arabia
  • UAE
  • Oman
  • Kuwait
  • Bahrain
  • Egypt
  • South Africa

If you require a visa, begin the process by contacting your local consulate or Japanese Embassy. They will explain the documents you will be required to submit. This includes a valid passport, passport pictures, a flight ticket, financial proof, and more.

Please note: As part of the visa application process, you will need to submit a detailed itinerary of your stay. When you purchase one of our Japan Tour Packages, you will receive a PDF document that details the tour schedule. This can be submitted for these visa purposes.

See all Japan Package Tours

Countries That Do Not Need a Visa to Visit Japan

The following countries are exempt from visas as long as it is “a stay of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include remunerative activities for a specific amount of time (short-term stay)”. Some restrictions apply so always check with the local consulate.

Asia

  • Brunei (14 days)
  • Malaysia
  • Republic of Korea
  • Singapore
  • Thailand (15 days)
  • Hong Kong
  • Macao
  • Taiwan

North America

  • Canada
  • United States

Latin America and the Caribbean

  • Argentina
  • Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Chile
  • Costa Rica
  • Dominican Republic
  • El Salvador

Middle East

  • Israel
  • Turkey

Africa

  • Lesotho
  • Mauritius
  • Tunisia

Oceania

  • Australia
  • New Zealand

Europe

  • Andorra
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • San Marino
  • Serbia
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
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