Japan Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Standard single-entry permits for up to 90 days
- eVisa options available for eligible nationalities
- Strict daily itinerary requirements for all applicants
- Proof of financial stability is a core requirement
- No visa required for many Western nationalities for stays under 90 days
- Transparent and relatively low government visa fees
- Multiple-entry visas available for frequent travellers
Processing time
5-10 working days
Processing times start once the application is accepted at the embassy. Some nationalities or complex cases may take longer.
Estimated cost
$45 - $135
- Single-entry visa fee$25 - $50 (varies by nationality)
- Multiple-entry visa fee$50 - $100 (varies by nationality)
- Visa Processing Centre service fee (if applicable)$20 - $35
Requirements
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements) to support the duration of stay
- A clear, day-by-day travel itinerary (Schedule of Stay)
- Confirmed flight reservations (onward and return)
- Proof of residential status in the country of application (if not a citizen)
- No criminal record or previous deportations from Japan
- Genuine intent to leave Japan at the end of the visit
- Recent passport-style photograph meeting specific Japanese dimensions
Documents you'll need
- Valid Passport with at least two blank pages
- Completed and signed Visa Application Form
- One passport-sized photograph (45mm x 35mm) taken within 6 months
- Detailed Flight Itinerary (confirmed or reserved)
- Daily Schedule of Stay (Itinerary in Japan form)
- Recent bank statements for the last 3–6 months
- Certificate of Employment or business registration documents
- Hotel booking confirmations for the duration of the stay
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility
Determine if your nationality requires a visa for short-term tourism or if you are eligible for the Japan e-Visa.
- 2
Prepare Documentation
Download the official application form and fill it out accurately. Errors or omissions often lead to delays or refusals.
- 3
Draft Your Itinerary
Create a day-by-day plan of your trip using the official 'Schedule of Stay' template provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- 4
Book an Appointment
Depending on your location, book an appointment at the nearest Japanese Embassy, Consulate, or authorised Visa Processing Centre.
- 5
Submit Application
Attend your appointment to submit your passport and documents. You may be required to pay the visa fee at this stage.
- 6
Wait for Processing
The embassy will review your documents. You may be contacted for additional information or a brief interview in rare cases.
- 7
Passport Collection
Once notified, return to the application centre or embassy to collect your passport with the visa sticker.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your bank statements clearly show your name and a consistent balance; avoid large, unexplained deposits.
- Be specific in your 'Schedule of Stay'—list specific tourist sites and provide the full address of your hotels.
- Do not use staples on your application forms unless specifically instructed to do so.
- Ensure your photo is recent; using an old photo from a previous visa may result in an immediate rejection.
- Double-check that your passport has enough empty 'Visa' pages (not 'Amendments' pages).
- If visiting friends, provide an Invitation Letter and proof of their residency in Japan.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.