Japan Travel & Entry Restrictions (Updated June 3, 2024)

As of April, 2024, regular passport holders from 71 countries entering Japan for tourism purposes including the United States, Canada, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy, Spain and Brunei Do Not need a visa and will be granted permission for short-term stay on arrival.

See the full list and requirements: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html

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>Japan's Current Entry Policy

>Japan Visa Application

>Documents to prepare before entry Japan

Who Can Enter Japan – Current Japan Entry Policy 2024

As of the latest update on May 31, 2023, Japan has opened its borders to travelers from all countries and regions. Travelers entering Japan on or after April 29, 2023, do not need to present a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 test certificate.

How to Get a Japan Visa – Japan Visa Application

Application for a visa is made by the applicant him/herself at the Japanese overseas establishments with jurisdiction over the area in which the applicant resides or those with jurisdiction over the country/region of which the applicant’s passport is issued, such as the Japan embassy or consulates in the country where the applicant resides. Please note that there are some countries/regions in which the visa applications should be submitted through travel agencies accredited by Japanese overseas establishments.

What documents required for Japan visa application

• The certificate for completion of registration to the Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System (ERFS) which receiving organization located in Japan applied for online
•  Visa application form
• Valid passport
• Photograph (4.5cm X 4.5cm, white background)
• Other necessary documents, such as certificate of Eligibility

Some supplement for Japan visa application

• For Japan Permanent Residents, the re-entry permit has expired, please contact the Japanese embassy in your country or a representative office designated by the embassy directly.
• Regarding the validity period of the Certificate of Eligibility, please check on the official website of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
• Those who have already got the certificate for the completion of the registration in 2021 also need to register and confirm in the Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System (ERFS) this time.
• The visa applied before December 2021 is regarded as an invalid visa. A new visa application will be required.

Useful links:

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare:

https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/0000121431_00341.html 

Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System: https://entry.hco.mhlw.go.jp/ 

Immigration Services Agency of Japan: https://www.isa.go.jp/en/index.html 

How to Get a Japan Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check Visa Requirements: Determine if you need a visa based on your nationality. Citizens from visa-exempt countries can stay in Japan for up to 90 days without a visa.
2. Gather Documents: Prepare the necessary documentation, including a valid passport and, if required, an invitation letter or proof of financial means.
3. Apply Online: Eligible travelers can apply for an eVisa through the JAPAN eVISA system, streamlining the process significantly.
4. Embassy Submission: If you’re not eligible for an eVisa, submit your application at the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate.
5. Wait for Processing: Visa processing times can vary, so apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
6. Collect Your Visa: Once approved, collect your visa and ensure all details are correct before your trip.