Japan Visa Requirements 2026

Do you need a visa for Japan? Complete guide on visa-free entry for 68 countries, Japan tourist visa application, and Visit Japan Web registration requirements

Last Updated: January 2026

Quick Answer: Do I Need a Visa for Japan?

  • USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU: No visa needed. 90-day visa-free entry for tourism.
  • Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore: 15-day visa-free entry (extendable to 90 days).
  • India, China, Philippines: Must apply for Japan tourist visa at embassy before travel.
  • All visitors must: Complete Visit Japan Web registration before arrival.
  • No visa on arrival: Japan does NOT offer visa on arrival. Get your visa before you fly.

Japan Visa Overview 2026

Mount Fuji Japan with cherry blossoms - popular destination requiring proper Japan visa requirements
Japan welcomes millions of tourists annually - check your visa requirements before planning your trip

Japan has one of the world's most generous visa-free policies for tourism. Citizens of 68 countries and territories can enter Japan without a visa, with most enjoying 90-day stays. Unlike Southeast Asian countries, Japan does NOT offer visa on arrival - if you need a visa, you must apply at a Japanese embassy or consulate before traveling.

The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs classifies visitors into three categories:

  • Visa Exemption (90 days): USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU countries - just arrive with passport
  • Visa Exemption (15 days): Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia - shorter visa-free stay
  • Visa Required: India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, etc. - must apply before travel
2026 Update: Visit Japan Web Now Mandatory All travelers to Japan must complete Visit Japan Web registration before arrival. This replaces the old paper customs and immigration forms. Complete it online before your flight, save the QR codes, and show them at immigration. Takes about 10 minutes.
No Visa on Arrival in Japan Unlike Thailand or Indonesia, Japan does NOT offer visa on arrival. If your nationality requires a visa, you must apply at a Japanese embassy before departure. Travelers without proper documentation will be denied boarding or deported upon arrival.

Japan Visa-Free Entry (90 Days)

Most Western passport holders can enter Japan without a visa and stay up to 90 days for tourism. This is one of the most generous visa-free policies in Asia, making Japan incredibly accessible for travelers from developed nations.

Countries with 90-Day Visa Exemption (2026)

Region Eligible Nationalities Stay Duration
Europe Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom 90 days
Americas Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Suriname, United States, Uruguay 90 days
Asia-Pacific Australia, Hong Kong, South Korea, Macau, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan 90 days
Middle East Israel, Turkey, United Arab Emirates 90 days

Countries with 15-Day Visa Exemption

Some Southeast Asian countries receive shorter visa-free stays:

Country Duration Extension Possible?
Brunei 15 days Yes, up to 90 days total
Indonesia 15 days Yes, up to 30 days total
Malaysia 90 days No
Thailand 15 days Yes, up to 30 days total

Japan Visa-Free Entry Requirements

Valid Passport

Must be valid for duration of stay. Japan doesn't require 6 months validity, but your passport must cover your entire trip.

Return/Onward Ticket

Confirmed ticket departing Japan within 90 days. Immigration may ask for proof.

Visit Japan Web

Complete online registration before arrival. Generate QR codes for immigration and customs.

Accommodation Details

First hotel address required for Visit Japan Web. Full itinerary not required.

Pro Tip: Extending Visa-Free Stays If you're from a visa-exempt country and want to stay longer than 90 days, you can apply for a 90-day extension at a Japanese Immigration Bureau. However, extensions are granted at discretion and require proof of financial means and reason for extended stay. You cannot work on tourist status.

Japan Tourist Visa (For Non-Exempt Countries)

If your country isn't on the visa-exemption list, you'll need to apply for a Japan tourist visa (officially called "Temporary Visitor" visa) at a Japanese embassy or consulate before traveling. This includes citizens of India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, and many other countries.

Japan Tourist Visa Types

Single Entry Tourist Visa

  • Validity: 3 months from issue date
  • Stay Duration: 15 days or 90 days (as granted)
  • Entries: One entry only
  • Fee: Approximately ¥3,000-4,000 (varies by embassy)
  • Processing: 5-7 business days typically

Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

  • Validity: 1, 3, or 5 years
  • Stay Duration: 15 or 30 days per visit
  • Entries: Unlimited within validity period
  • Requirements: Higher income proof, previous Japan visits help
  • Fee: Approximately ¥6,000

Japan Tourist Visa Requirements

Application Form

Completed visa application form from Japanese embassy

Passport Photo

Recent 4.5cm x 4.5cm photo, white background

Passport

Valid passport with blank pages

Flight Itinerary

Round-trip flight reservation (not necessarily paid)

Hotel Reservations

Confirmed bookings for all nights in Japan

Bank Statements

3-6 months statements showing sufficient funds

Employment Proof

Employment certificate or business registration

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Detailed travel plan with dates, locations, activities

Japan Visa Application Tips Japan has one of the strictest visa application processes. Common rejection reasons include: insufficient funds, weak ties to home country, vague itinerary, or incomplete documentation. For first-time applicants, applying through an accredited travel agency often improves approval chances as they verify documents before submission.

Visit Japan Web Registration (Mandatory for All)

Visit Japan Web QR code registration on smartphone for Japan entry requirements
Save your Visit Japan Web QR codes before arrival

Visit Japan Web is Japan's digital entry system that ALL travelers must complete before arriving in Japan - regardless of nationality or visa type. This replaced paper-based customs and immigration forms.

How to Register on Visit Japan Web

  1. Create Account: Go to vjw-lp.digital.go.jp and register with email
  2. Register Trip: Add your travel dates and flight information
  3. Enter Traveler Info: Passport details, nationality, address in Japan
  4. Complete Immigration: Fill out foreign national arrival record
  5. Complete Customs: Declare items you're bringing into Japan
  6. Get QR Codes: Save immigration QR and customs QR codes
  7. Show at Airport: Present QR codes at immigration and customs gates

Visit Japan Web Timeline

  • When to register: Up to 6 weeks before, but at least 24 hours before departure
  • Processing time: Usually instant, sometimes takes a few hours
  • Save screenshots: Download QR codes in case of no internet at airport
What You'll Need for Visit Japan Web
  • Passport information (number, expiry date, nationality)
  • Flight details (airline, flight number, arrival date/time)
  • Japan address (first hotel name and address)
  • Email address for account registration

Japan e-Visa System

Japan has been expanding its e-Visa system to select countries, allowing online visa applications instead of embassy visits. As of 2026, the e-Visa is available for tourists from specific countries through the official Japan e-Visa portal.

Countries Eligible for Japan e-Visa (2026)

  • Brazil
  • Cambodia
  • Canada (for certain visa types)
  • Mongolia
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Singapore
  • South Africa
  • Taiwan
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom (for certain visa types)
  • United States (for certain visa types)

Note: Major markets like India, China, and Philippines are NOT yet eligible for e-Visa. These nationals must still apply through Japanese embassies.

e-Visa Application Process If your country is eligible, the e-Visa application takes about 15-20 minutes online. You'll upload passport scans, photos, and itinerary documents. Approval typically takes 5-7 business days. Print the e-Visa and carry it with your passport.

Japan Visa Requirements by Nationality

Quick reference for specific nationalities frequently searching for Japan visa information:

US Citizens - Japan Visa Requirements

Visa-free 90 days. American passport holders enter Japan without a visa for tourism up to 90 days. Complete Visit Japan Web before travel. Extension possible at immigration bureau for another 90 days.

UK Citizens - Japan Visa 2026

Visa-free 90 days. British passport holders enjoy 90-day visa-free entry to Japan. No advance application needed. Just complete Visit Japan Web registration online before your flight.

Australian Citizens - Japan Visa Requirements

Visa-free 90 days. Australian passport holders need no visa for Japan tourism. 90-day stay allowed, extendable. Visit Japan Web registration mandatory before arrival.

Canadian Citizens - Japan Visa 2026

Visa-free 90 days (or 6 months with extension). Canadians enjoy special reciprocal agreements allowing stays up to 6 months (90 days + 90-day extension). Canada is also eligible for Japan e-Visa for certain categories.

German Citizens - Japan Visa Requirements

Visa-free 90 days. German passport holders enter Japan visa-free for tourism. Very straightforward entry - just passport, Visit Japan Web QR codes, and return ticket.

Indian Citizens - Japan Visa Requirements 2026

Visa required. Indian passport holders must apply for Japan tourist visa at the Japanese Embassy in India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru). Typical processing: 5-7 business days. Multiple entry visa available for frequent travelers with high income.

Chinese Citizens - Japan Visa 2026

Visa required. Chinese passport holders need a Japan visa before travel. Apply through designated travel agencies in China. Multiple entry visas available for high-income applicants and those who've visited Japan before.

Filipino Citizens - Japan Visa Requirements

Visa required. Philippine passport holders must apply for Japan tourist visa at the Japanese Embassy Manila or consulates. Can apply directly or through accredited agencies. Multiple entry visa possible for frequent travelers.

Thai Citizens - Japan Visa 2026

Visa-free 15 days. Thai passport holders get 15-day visa-free entry to Japan. For longer stays, apply for tourist visa at Japanese Embassy Bangkok. Extension possible at immigration for up to 15 additional days.

Malaysian Citizens - Japan Visa Requirements

Visa-free 90 days. Malaysian passport holders enjoy 90-day visa-free entry - the longest in Southeast Asia. Complete Visit Japan Web before travel.

Singapore Citizens - Japan Visa 2026

Visa-free 90 days. Singaporean passport holders get 90-day visa-free entry. Singapore is also eligible for Japan e-Visa for certain categories.

Indonesian Citizens - Japan Visa Requirements

Visa-free 15 days. Indonesian passport holders get 15-day visa-free entry. For longer stays, apply for Japan tourist visa at Japanese Embassy Jakarta.

Japan Entry Requirements (All Visitors)

Regardless of visa type, all travelers entering Japan must meet these requirements:

Valid Passport

Must be valid for entire stay. Japan doesn't require 6 months validity like some countries.

Visit Japan Web

Mandatory online registration. Generate QR codes before arrival.

Return Ticket

Proof of onward travel within your allowed stay period.

Sufficient Funds

Cash or cards to cover your stay. No specific amount required but may be questioned.

Japan Customs Regulations

  • Duty-Free: 400 cigarettes, 3 bottles alcohol (760ml each), ¥200,000 worth of goods
  • Currency: Declare amounts over ¥1,000,000 (approximately $7,000 USD)
  • Prohibited: Drugs (strict enforcement), firearms, counterfeit goods, certain foods
  • Restricted: Meat, fruits, plants require declaration and may be confiscated
  • Prescription Drugs: Carry prescription, some medicines banned (codeine, pseudoephedrine)
Strict Drug Laws in Japan Japan has zero tolerance for drugs. Cannabis is illegal regardless of your home country's laws. Prescription medications containing stimulants or narcotics (like some ADHD medications) are controlled. Bring your prescription and check with the Japanese Ministry of Health if unsure.

Extending Your Stay in Japan

Visa Extension Process

If you're on visa-free entry or a tourist visa and want to stay longer, you can apply for an extension at a Japanese Immigration Services Bureau.

Extension Requirements

  • Apply before expiry: Submit at least 2 weeks before your current status expires
  • Proof of funds: Bank statement or proof of financial support
  • Reason for extension: Tourism, family visit, or other valid reason
  • Accommodation proof: Hotel bookings or invitation from host
  • Fee: ¥4,000 revenue stamp
  • Processing: 2-4 weeks typically

Overstay Penalties

Japan Overstay Consequences
  • Overstaying is a criminal offense in Japan
  • Detention and deportation at your expense
  • 5-year re-entry ban for voluntary departure (reduced from 10 years)
  • 10-year re-entry ban if detained by immigration
  • Criminal record in Japan affecting future visa applications

Japan Visa FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Japan?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of 68 countries including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Countries like India, China, and Philippines require a tourist visa obtained before travel. Japan does NOT offer visa on arrival.

How long can I stay in Japan without a visa?

Most Western countries get 90 days visa-free. Some Southeast Asian countries (Thailand, Indonesia) get 15 days. You can potentially extend your stay at a Japanese Immigration Bureau if you have valid reasons and sufficient funds.

What is Visit Japan Web and do I need it?

Yes, it's mandatory for everyone. Visit Japan Web is Japan's digital entry system where you pre-register your trip, complete immigration and customs forms online, and receive QR codes to show at the airport. Complete it at vjw-lp.digital.go.jp before your flight.

Is there visa on arrival in Japan?

No. Japan does not offer visa on arrival. If your nationality requires a visa, you must apply at a Japanese embassy or consulate before traveling. Travelers without proper documentation will be denied boarding or deported.

How much does a Japan tourist visa cost?

A single-entry Japan tourist visa costs approximately ¥3,000-4,000 (around USD 20-30). Multiple entry visas cost around ¥6,000. Fees vary slightly by embassy and may include additional processing charges.

How long does Japan visa processing take?

Standard processing is 5-7 business days at most Japanese embassies. During peak travel seasons (cherry blossom, autumn), it may take longer. Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date.

Can I work on a Japan tourist visa?

No. Tourist visa and visa-free entry strictly prohibit work, including paid or unpaid work, internships, and certain volunteer activities. Working illegally results in deportation and long-term re-entry bans.

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Japan?

Yes. Indian passport holders must apply for a Japan tourist visa at the Japanese Embassy in India before travel. Japan does not offer e-Visa or visa on arrival for Indian citizens. Apply through embassy in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, or Bengaluru.

Can I extend my visa-free stay in Japan?

Yes, potentially. You can apply for a 90-day extension at a Japanese Immigration Bureau. However, approval is at their discretion. You'll need to show proof of funds, accommodation, and a valid reason for extending your stay.

What happens if I overstay in Japan?

Overstaying is a criminal offense in Japan. Consequences include detention, deportation at your expense, and a 5-10 year re-entry ban. If you realize you'll overstay, leave voluntarily before your visa expires to minimize penalties.

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