EnuPicture cherry blossoms drifting over Tokyo’s busy streets. Imagine soaking in hot springs near Mount Fuji or wandering ancient Kyoto temples. Japan calls with its mix of modern buzz and quiet beauty.
This guide covers Japan tourist visa application requirements for 2026. You’ll learn who skips the visa, full document lists, the application process, fees, and approval tips. Recent eVisa options speed things up for some travelers. Rules can shift, so check the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website or your local Japanese embassy for the latest.
Do You Need a Japan Tourist Visa? Quick Eligibility Check
Most visitors stay up to 90 days for tourism without a visa. Citizens from 74 countries and regions qualify. Others must apply for a tourist visa.
Use the MOFA tool by nationality to confirm. Your passport needs validity through your stay, plus proof of onward travel.
Visa-Free Countries and Regions List
Groups enter visa-free:
- North America: USA, Canada (90 days).
- Europe: UK, all EU nations like Germany, France, Italy (90 days).
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand (90 days).
- Others: Brazil (90 days), UAE, South Korea, Singapore (varies 15-90 days).
See the full official MOFA list. Some limits hit 15 or 30 days. Double-check passport rules.
When You Must Apply for a Visa
Nationals from India, China, Russia, Philippines, and most Asia, Africa, and South America need a visa. No exemptions for paid work or study. Check your embassy site first. Tourism or short unpaid business only.
Required Documents for Japan Tourist Visa Application
Gather these for a strong application. Requirements vary by nationality and embassy. Prepare copies of everything. Accuracy cuts rejection risks.
Core items include passport, form, photo, travel proof, and funds. Services like VisaHQ help check needs online.
Core Documents Everyone Needs
Start with these basics:
- Valid passport: At least 6 months beyond stay, two blank pages.
- Application form: Download from your embassy site; fill neatly.
- Recent photo: 4.5cm x 4.5cm, white background, no headwear.
Download samples from embassy pages.
Proof of Funds and Travel Plans
Show you cover costs:
- Bank statements: Last 3 months, balance for trip (often $2,000+ per person).
- Flight itinerary: Round-trip booking.
- Hotel bookings or itinerary: Daily plans.
- Host letter: If staying with friends; include their ID, address, guarantee.
Employed? Add pay slips. Students need school proof.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Japan Tourist Visa
Plan ahead. Start 1-2 months early for 2026 travel.
- Confirm visa need on MOFA site.
- Collect all documents.
- Choose eVisa if eligible or embassy route.
- Submit online or in-person.
- Pay fee after approval.
- Track status; collect passport.
Separate from visa: Use Visit Japan Web for entry QR code.
Online eVisa Application for Eligible Countries
eVisa launched September 2025 for tourism up to 90 days. Eligible: Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, UK, USA residents from those nations.
Steps:
- Register at JAPAN eVISA site.
- Upload scans of docs.
- Pay online.
- Get approval in days to weeks.
Faster than paper, but check eligibility.
Applying In-Person at Embassy or Consulate
Find your local office via MOFA. Drop off docs; no appointment in many spots. Pick up later. No mail in some areas like US. VFS Global handles some countries.
Japan Tourist Visa Fees, Processing Times, and Validity
Fees stay low. Pay on pickup; no refunds.
| Visa Type | Fee (USD approx.) |
|---|---|
| Single-entry | $20 |
| Multiple-entry | $40 |
| Transit | $5 |
Varies by country, e.g., lower for India.
Breakdown of Visa Fees by Type
Single-entry suits most tourists. Multiple for repeat visits. Transit for layovers. Check embassy for local currency.
Expected Processing Times in 2026
Standard: 5 business days. Peaks like January hit 2+ weeks. Avoid holidays. Apply early post-New Year rush. Complete docs speed it up.
Validity: 90 days from entry, single-entry common.
Conclusion
Japan tourist visa application requirements boil down to eligibility check, solid docs, timely submission, and fees around $20. Visa-free for 74 nations; eVisa eases it for others.
Start now: Visit MOFA or your embassy. Pack your bags for that perfect 2026 trip. Safe travels!
Enu
