Japan Visas

From bustling Tokyo to theserene streets of Kyoto, Japan is famous for its utterly unique culture, both for those seeking business ventures and cultural immersion, no matter what you’re into or enjoy.

This guide will walk you through the visa application process, outline the necessary documents, and provide all the details you need to ensure your trip to Japan is smooth and worry-free.

When do you need a visa for Japan?

Japan offers different visas for tourism, business, work, study, and family reunification. Let's explore some of the key options.

When do you need a visa to visit Japan?

• Visa-exempt countries: Citizens of 65 countries, including the UK, US, Australia, and New Zealand, can visit Japan for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You'll receive a temporary visitor visa upon arrival. Find the full list here.
• Visa-required countries: If your country is not on the visa-exempt list (e.g., China, Vietnam, Ukraine), you must obtain a visa before travelling to Japan. You can apply at your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.
• Work or longer stays: Even if you're from a visa-exempt country, you'll need a specific visa to work in Japan or stay longer than 90 days.

Japan visa requirements

General requirements

• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Japan.
• Completed application form: Fill out the official visa application form accurately and completely. The form can usually be downloaded from the website of the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country or obtained from an authorised visa application centre.
• Passport photos: Provide one recent passport-sized photograph that meets the specified requirements.
• Documents related to the purpose of your visit: Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may need to provide additional documents, such as:
  • Work visa: Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) issued by the relevant Japanese authorities, employment contract, and other documents related to your employment in Japan.
  • Student visa: Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) issued by the school you will be attending, proof of financial support, and other documents related to your studies.
  • Family visa: Proof of relationship with the Japanese citizen you're joining, such as a marriage or birth certificate.

Additional requirements for short-term stay visas (tourism)

• Proof of sufficient funds: Demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself while in Japan. There is no set minimum amount, but you must show you have enough to cover your travel expenses (flights home, hotels, daily allowance, etc). This means you shouldn’t be in debt and will have enough to get around and home.
• Travel itinerary: Provide a detailed itinerary of your planned activities in Japan, including flight reservations and hotel bookings.
• Copy of your birth certificate: You may need to provide a certified copy of your birth certificate.

Remember:

• Visa requirements and exemptions can change. Always verify the latest information with the official Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or consult your country's embassy or consulate before travelling.
• All documents should be in English or Japanese or translated into one of these languages by a certified translator.

Important considerations:

• Some nationalities may be subject to prior consultation during the visa application process, which can extend the processing time.
• It is highly recommended to purchase international travel medical insurance for your trip to Japan.

Japan visa application process

Applying for a Japanese visa typically involves submitting your application and supporting documents to a Japanese embassy or consulate or through an authorised travel agency. Here's a general outline of the process:

1. Determine the visa type: Identify the appropriate visa category based on your purpose of travel and nationality. You can check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan's website for details on various visa types.
2. Determine your application method: There are four convenient ways to apply for your Japan visa. This includes the online application via eVisa, which allows you to complete your application and submit documents electronically.

Then there’s:

• In-Person Application: Visit the Japanese Embassy or Consulate General in your country to submit your application and required documents directly.
• Proxy Application: If you are unable to visit the Embassy or Consulate yourself, you can authorize a proxy to submit your application on your behalf using a Letter of Proxy.
• Accredited Travel Agent: Utilize the services of a travel agent approved by the Japanese Embassy or Consulate General to handle your visa application process.

Please note that certain circumstances or countries may require you to submit your application in person or through an accredited travel agent. It's always best to confirm with the specific Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply to ensure you follow the correct procedure.

3. Gather the required documents: Prepare all the necessary documents, which typically include:
   • Completed and signed Japan Tourist Visa Application Form
   • Valid passport with at least six months validity remaining and at least two blank pages
   • Passport-size photos meeting the specified requirements
   • Flight itinerary with arrival and departure dates
   • Daily itinerary of your planned activities in Japan
   • Proof of financial stability (e.g., bank statements, income tax returns)
   • Proof of relationship if visiting family or friends
   • No Objection Certificate or Letter of Employment from your employer (if applicable)
   • Other supporting documents, depending on your visa type and circumstances
4. Submit the application:
   • Direct application: Submit your application and supporting documents in person at the Japanese embassy or consulate on your scheduled appointment date.
   • Travel agency: If required by the embassy or consulate, submit your application through an accredited travel agency. They will handle the submission on your behalf.
5. Pay the visa fee: Pay the applicable visa fee at the time of submission.
6. Wait for processing: The visa processing time is usually around 5 working days, but it can take longer depending on the visa type and the embassy/consulate's workload.
7. Collect your passport: Once your visa is processed, collect your passport from the embassy/consulate or travel agency. If your application is approved, your visa will be affixed to your passport, and you can use it to travel to Japan within three months.

How to get permanent residence in Japan?

Getting a permanent residence permit, often called "PR," is a major step towards establishing yourself in Japan. It opens doors to many benefits, like being able to work in any field, apply for loans, and even sponsor family members to come to Japan.

Eligibility

• Live in Japan for 10+ years on any visa, and you're generally eligible. This is the simplest, but the longest way to acquire a permanent residence.
• If you’re able to score enough points in the "highly-skilled professional" system (even if you're not on that specific visa), you could be eligible in as little as 1 year.
• If you've been married for 3+ years and lived in Japan for at least 1 year, you can apply.

Requirements

Besides the residency requirements, you'll also need to:

• No criminal record and good behaviour are essential.
• You'll need to show proof that you've been paying your taxes in Japan.
• Show you have a stable income (around 3 million JPY or more) and can support yourself financially.
• You'll need a Japanese citizen or permanent resident to vouch for your character.

Learn More

How to get Japanese citizenship?

Becoming a Japanese citizen is a significant commitment, but it comes with many benefits, like the right to vote, own property without restrictions, and access to social welfare programs.

Naturalisation

To become a Japanese citizen through naturalisation, you'll need to meet several requirements:

• Residency: Live in Japan for at least 5 years, and be present there for at least 270 days each year.
• Age: Be at least 20 years old and have legal capacity under Japanese law.
• Good conduct: Have a clean criminal record and demonstrate good behaviour.
• Financial stability: Have a stable income or be financially supported by a spouse or family member.
• Taxes and pension: Be up-to-date with your tax payments and enrol in the Japanese National Pension System.
• Loyalty to Japan: Abide by the Japanese Constitution and not be a member of any group that seeks to overthrow the government.
• Renounce other citizenships: Japan generally doesn't allow dual citizenship, so you'll need to give up your current nationality.

Learn More