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
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.