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Embassy of Japan in the United States of America

Visa and Travel Information

• If you need a visa, check how and when you can apply for a visa: General Rules & Processing Time
• If you do NOT need a visa, skip to STEP #6 .

Visa Information

Who needs a visa.

• The Visa Waiver Program applies based on your nationality, NOT on your U.S. residence status (including green card).

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General Rules for Visa Application

Application procedure & processing time.

• In general, it takes 5 business days to issue a visa. (ex., If you apply on Monday, you can pick up a visa next Monday. Our holidays are not counted as business days.)
• It may take more than one month depending on the visa. We recommend that you apply for a visa approximately 1.5 months before your departure date. We do NOT have expedited services.

Types of Visas & Application Documents

• Please click on the applicable box below to see application documents on each visa. 
• If you intend to stay in Japan more than 90 days, please click on the "COE Holders" box.

Application drop-off/pick-up & payment Hours

• No appointment required.
• No parking available.
• Please check our holidays before visiting.
• In case of adverse weather conditions, Embassy of Japan follows the guideline of U.S. Federal Government. When the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) announces federal agencies in the Washington, D.C. area are "closed" or "delayed", Embassy of Japan along with VISA section will be closed/delayed accordingly.
• The Embassy will NOT accept any applications by mail.

• US citizens are exempt from visa fees. (Some countries and regions are also exempt from visa fees. Please check the Visa Fee Exempt list to find out if your visa fee is waived. )
• We accept CASH only. We DO NOT accept personal checks and credit cards.

Information on Border Measures

Visiting japan.

• After April 29, 2023, pre-registration for quarantine procedures on Visit Japan Web are no longer required, however, you can still use Visit Japan Web to pre-register for "Immigration", "Customs" and "Tax-free Shopping Service" (Optional).   
• For information about traveling with minor(s), please read our FAQ . 

Staying in Japan

• Be aware of traffic rules in Japan
• Nice to Meet You! Let's Be Friends!
• Study in Japan
• Japanese pension law
• Information on Local Call Centers
• It is a CRIME to sell or give a bank account without just cause.
• Roadmap for the Realization of a Society of Harmonious Coexistence with Foreign Nationals
• Comprehensive Measures for Acceptance and Coexistence of Foreign Nationals
• A daily life support portal for foreign nationals
• Guidebook on Living and Working
• New to Japan? Useful pages for foreign nationals

Recommended Information

• Consular Section: Embassy of Japan, 2520 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008
• Office Hours: Application Drop-off/ M-F 9:15am-12:00pm Visa Pick-up/ M-F 1:30pm-4:00pm
• Contact Us: 202-238-6800/ M-F 9:00am-5:00pm
• Japan Visa Information Hotline (Available in English/Vietnamese/Russian/Ukrainian) 1-202-499-1468 Domestic call fee applies, 24hours, 7days/week

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• Helping You Plan

All you need to know about entering, leaving and staying in Japan

Any foreign visitor entering Japan must have a valid passport for the duration of their stay, and all visitors must comply with the conditions of their visas.

See below for information about the current visa requirements for Japan.

If you have any further questions, please contact the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

Enjoy the Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Japan

Japan introduced a new visa program specifically for "digital nomads" -international remote workers who are attracting worldwide attention.

Click here for details:

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What you need to know about Japan visa requirements

Dec 24, 2023 • 3 min read

Visitors from 68 countries can travel to Japan with a free visa on arrival © d3sign / Shutterstock

With its pulsing, modern cities, beautiful rural landscapes and world-renowned cuisine, Japan is one of the top stops for travelers seeking a fully immersive Asian experience. And there's good news: travelers dreaming of a long-awaited trip to Japan need wait no longer – after establishing some of the world’s strictest border control policies during COVID-19, Japan has opened visa-free travel for visitors from most countries.

Read on for a rundown of Japan’s latest entry requirements, and consult Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the most up-to-date information ahead of your travels.

Entry procedures – before you arrive

Ahead of your trip, register at Visit Japan Web , where you can submit your documentation for customs and immigration, and then download your QR code to your smartphone.

When you arrive in Japan, simply show the QR code when requested during the entry process. 

How to get a visa

Residents of 68 countries can enter Japan for up to 90 days for tourism purposes with a free visa upon arrival; this is considered a visa exemption. These countries include the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and most countries in Europe. For a complete list of visa-exempt countries and visa durations, consult the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs . 

On entering Japan, all holders of foreign passports are photographed and fingerprinted. If asked, travelers arriving with a visa upon arrival should be able to provide proof of onward travel or sufficient means to purchase an air or ferry ticket out of Japan. In practice, this is rarely requested. Your passport should also be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

Travelers not from a visa-exempt country will need to apply for one via their nearest Japanese embassy in their home nation or organize one with an accredited travel agent approved by the Japanese Embassy. The cost of visas is approximately 3,000 yen for a single-entry visa and 6,000 yen for a double- or multiple-entry visa. Fees are collected in the currency of the country in which the embassy is located.

The processing period for visas is five business days from the day after the acceptance of the application. For more information about the requirements of applying for a Japanese visa in specific countries, see the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

What if I need to extend my visa?

Extending a visa is possible from within Japan for citizens of Austria, Germany, Ireland, Lichtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland and the UK; these travelers may be able to extend their temporary visitor visa once, for another 90 days. Visitors wishing to do this will need to apply at a regional immigration bureau in Japan before the initial visa expires. If approved, the extension fee is 4,000 yen.

For other nationalities, extending a temporary visa is difficult unless you have family or business contacts in Japan who can act as a guarantor on your behalf. Options should be discussed at your nearest regional immigration bureau.

Longer, working visas are also available to visitors of Japan, which allow people to study, train or work in the country. These usually grant entry for either three years, one year, six months or three months. These visas must be applied for in advance of travel, via an embassy in your country of origin. 

There is also a specific working holiday visa , which allows visitors to engage in small-scale employment while visiting the country for tourism purposes. These are available to people between the ages of 18 to 30 (25 in some cases) from 26 countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Korea, the UK and a number of countries in Europe. The number of hours that can be worked and the type of work permitted are limited under this visa.

This article was first published Mar 17, 2021 and updated Dec 24, 2023.

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• Application
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Japanese eVisa for American Citizens

Update : Japan's visa-exemption policy resumes on October 11, 2022. Travelers from visa-free countries will not need a visa from October 11 onwards.

American citizens traveling to Japan need a Japanese visa for US citizens to enter the country no matter their length of intended stay or the purpose of the travel.

The Japanese government has launched an eVisa for Japan for US citizens . US passport holders can now obtain a short-term visa through a simplified online application process.

On this page, American citizens can learn when they are eligible for the eVisa, how to apply for a Japan visa online from the US , and when it is necessary to obtain their Japanese visa from an embassy or consulate.

The Japanese eVisa for American Citizens

The new electronic visa system for Japan allows Americans to apply for and obtain a Japanese visa online for short-term stays.

The eVisa for Japan for US citizens is available as a :

• Tourist visa: available to US travelers visiting Japan as part of an organized tour group.
• Business visa: created for business professionals arriving in the country for short-term engagements on the invitation of a Japanese company.
• Visa for visiting relatives: available for individuals visiting family in Japan with an invitation letter and proof of kinship.

These types of Japan visas for US citizens can now be obtained through the online process. They are single-entry visas that allow the holder a maximum stay of 90 days in the country.

Japan Visa Requirements for US Citizens

In order to submit an eVisa application from the USA, it is first necessary to meet the online Japan visa requirements for American citizens and have the following documents:

• A passport with at least 6 month's validity
• A recent photo of the traveler taken against a white background
• A certificate of registration to ERFS (Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System). This is provided by the inviting organization in Japan ( tourist and business travelers only).
• Parental consent letter (if applying for a minor)

Applicants for a Japan eVisa for US citizens planning to visit family in the country do not need to provide an ERFS certificate, but they must supply:

• A letter of invitation from their relatives
• Proof of kinship (e.g. a marriage or birth certificate)

Applicants for a Japanese visa for Americans for a spouse or child of a Japanese national or permanent or long-term resident don’t need to submit an Invitation Letter. However, they are still required to prove kinship.

Online Japan Visa Application for US Citizens

To apply for the Japanese eVisa , Americans will have to fill out an online application with their personal, passport and travel details. They can then upload supporting documents in digital format, and pay a service fee to submit their request.

Once they have submitted their form, the applicant must then visit their nearest Japanese overseas office to pay the eVisa fee .

After completing payment, the applicant receives a notification via email that allows them to access the electronic Visa Issuance Notice .

This must be shown on a digital device to airline staff in order to board a flight to Japan, alongside the same passport used to complete the eVisa form.

Note: If a Japanese eVisa application from the US is submitted by a proxy instead of the traveler, a letter of attorney must be submitted which states that a third party is authorized to apply on the American citizen’s behalf.

A proxy is only permitted to apply if the applicant would have difficulty in completing the eVISA application by themselves or in displaying their Visa issuance Notice when checking in for their flight for Japan.

Other Types of Japanese Visas for US Travelers

The short-term visas for Japan for Americans are available through the eVisa application.

The long-term Japan visas for US citizens include:

• General visa : allows individuals to stay in Japan from 3 months to up to 3 years. This type of visa requires a certificate of eligibility and allows travelers to participate in cultural activities.
• Working visa : granted to individuals with particular skill sets or qualifications covering a number of different professions. 
• Specified visa : meant for the spouses and children of Japanese nationals. This type of visa can be valid from 6 months to up to 5 years and requires the appropriate documentation to be submitted along with the application proving Japanese ancestry.
• Diplomatic visa : granted to individuals who engage in activities as part of a diplomatic mission, consular office or embassy or any supportive role affiliated with such. 
• Official visa : granted to businessmen, foreign governments or international organizations recognized by the Japanese government. The maximum allowable length of stay varies for this type of visa.

All of these visa types for Japan for Americans must be applied for from a Japanese embassy or consulate in the US.

You’ll Need a Visa to Enter Japan Now

In addition to numerous strict conditions for entering japan, visa-free travel from the u.s. is currently suspended..

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Japan has technically reopened to foreign tourists but it takes a lot to get there—including a visa.

Photo by Shutterstock

As of June 10, Japan reopened to travelers from 98 countries, including the United States, but with a whole host of specific conditions—including the need for a visa.

Prior to closing its international borders in 2020 due to the pandemic, Japan had exempted U.S. travelers from the need to obtain a visa for entering the country for leisure travel. But that exemption has now been suspended, according to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

“Currently, foreign nationals/people who are willing to enter Japan need a visa newly issued by embassies or consulates or consular office of Japan,” the foreign ministry stated in its latest update about entry requirements.

So, if you’re thinking of heading to Japan, you will need to make an appointment at the closest Japanese embassy or consulate or apply for a visa by mail. Be aware that some Japanese embassies and consulates might have a backlog of visa applications to process and it could take longer than usual to obtain one.

“Due to the tremendous amount of visa applications we are processing, we cannot provide you with any status updates,” stated the Consulate-General of Japan in San Francisco on its website.

The need to obtain a visa is in addition to several more hurdles travelers must cross to get into Japan. Earlier this month, Japanese authorities outlined the new rules for foreign travelers, and they include obtaining private medical insurance that covers medical expenses related to COVID-19 infection, wearing a mask at all times unless there is a specific exception, and traveling under the supervision of an organized tour group.

Japan’s reopening plan divides countries and regions into red, yellow, or blue categories depending on COVID-19 risk. People from countries in the blue category (such as the United States) will be able to bypass quarantine as long as they pass a predeparture COVID test, regardless of vaccination status. Those in the yellow category (which includes such countries as India, Lebanon, and Portugal) will also be able to skip a quarantine period with proof of vaccination. However, visitors from the red group—which consists of Pakistan, Fiji, Albania, and Sierra Leone—must take an on-arrival test and quarantine for a period of time.

With the easing of entry restrictions, Japan also increased its daily entry limits from 10,000 foreign arrivals to 20,000 per day in June—still a fraction of the 31.88 million foreign tourists (or an average of 87,000 tourists per day) who entered Japan in 2019.

>> Next: Singapore Drops COVID Test for Vaccinated Travelers

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Americans now need a visa to travel to Japan

And there are a host of other requirements once you get there.

Time after time, Japan ranks at the top of travel bucket lists for Americans with wanderlust. But a new announcement from the Japanese government just make it a little harder to get to the island country from the States.

Japan just reopened this month for international tourism (for the first time since its initial lockdown in 2020), but strict requirements have been put in place, including a cap on the number of entries from a small number of countries. In addition, Americans seeking to travel to Japan will now need a visa to enter the country, as reported by Afar . Spur of the moment travel won't be possible since Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that 'Due to the impact caused by the Covid pandemic, the visa approval procedure may take longer than usual' as part of the announcement. 

Even once you have visa in hand, travel to Japan won't be breezy. There are also stringent regulations once you land. For instance, travelers must obtain special medical insurance to cover expenses related to the novel coronavirus, wear a mask at all times, sanitize hands, and travel with a tour guide. That's right – you are not meant to explore on your own, other than if you are coming for certain reasons such as attending a wedding or funeral or visiting a sick friend. You are not allowed to share food in a restaurant or talk to others in a public bath.

And although we are fierce lovers of travel, we do note that according to the most recent update to the US Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs's website , Japan still has a travel advisory level of 3, meaning 'reconsider travel,' both for its high levels of Covid-19 and for its Covid-related entry restrictions. 

• Erika Mailman USA contributor

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Visa Requirements to Visit Japan as a U.S. Citizen

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Can I Travel to Japan With a Green Card?

Yes, you can travel to Japan with a Green Card. A Green Card is an identification card issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows its holder to live and work in the United States as a permanent resident. This card serves as proof of legal immigration status within the U.S., but it also has benefits for international travel. For example, citizens from certain countries—including those with a valid green card—can enter Japan without needing to apply for a visa beforehand. When traveling abroad, having your green card on hand is essential not just for entry but also as proof of identity when navigating through foreign customs authorities or seeking assistance at embassies abroad in case of emergencies or other urgent matters while traveling away from home. It’s important to note that if you are entering Japan on your Green Card, you’ll need documentation proving your legal residence in the U.S., such as an I-94 form or passport stamp showing admission into the country under immigrant classification codes like LPR (lawful permanent residents). These documents will be checked upon arrival at Japanese customs where travelers must present their passports along with any applicable visas they may have obtained ahead of time.

• Step 1: Acquire the necessary documents
• Before you can travel to Japan with a Green Card, you must have a valid US passport, an approved visa for entry into Japan and your Green Card
• Make sure that all of these documents are up-to-date before traveling
• Step 2: Contact the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in the United States for more information about visas
• You will need to apply for a visa prior to traveling and provide any additional documents related to your trip such as proof of financial means, an itinerary, etc
• The embassy or consulate can provide further information on what is required when applying for a visa
• Step 3: Submit your application form and pay the associated fee online or by mail depending on which method is specified by the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in question
• Once your application has been approved, you will receive confirmation via email along with instructions on how to proceed with obtaining your visa sticker which will be placed onto one of the pages of your passport prior to travel
• Step 4: Book flights and make accommodation arrangements if needed once you have received confirmation that your visa has been granted/approved
• You may also need to purchase traveler’s insurance prior to departure so make sure this is taken care of too! Step 5: Have fun! Pack lightly but don’t forget important items like medications and chargers – enjoy exploring Japan’s incredible landscape from ancient temples & shrines, beautiful gardens &

Which Countries Can You Visit with a US Green Card?

Can I Use Green Card to Go to Japan?

If you are a permanent resident of the United States, then yes, you can use your green card to travel to Japan. It is important to note that while your green card serves as proof of legal residence in the US, it does not guarantee entry into other countries. As such, there are certain steps and requirements that must be met before being allowed to enter Japan with a green card. First off, travelers will need to obtain a valid passport from their native country or nation of origin. The passport must have at least 6 months remaining validity from when you plan on leaving for Japan. You will also need to apply for and receive a visa prior to traveling there; depending on what type of visa is granted (tourist or business), specific documentation may be required upon arrival. Additionally, it is recommended that travelers also carry additional proof documents such as hotel reservations and flight information which can help verify the purpose for visit if asked by immigration authorities upon arrival in Japan. Once all paperwork has been sorted out and organized correctly, those holding green cards should present their passports along with their visas at the port of entry before entering Japanese territory — this includes airports and ports located within the country’s borders but outside designated free-trade zones like Yokohama Harbor where customs inspections do not take place regularly (so check beforehand).

What Countries Can You Visit With Us Green Card?

The United States Green Card is a permanent resident card that allows its holders to live and work in the US permanently. It also permits them to travel abroad with few restrictions, which makes it an attractive option for many people from around the world. The answer to this question depends on whether you are a green card holder or not. If you are a green card holder, then you can visit almost every country in the world with your US green card without having to obtain any additional visas or permits. Some countries may require extra paperwork such as passports or proof of financial means before allowing entry but generally speaking, most nations allow entry for those who possess valid residency documents like a US Green Card. This includes popular tourist destinations such as Canada, Mexico and European nations like France, Germany and Italy among others. On the other hand, if you do not have a valid US Green Card yet but would still like to visit certain countries outside of America then there are some options available depending on where you wish to go. For instance, Canada has signed Visa Waiver Agreements (VWP) with several countries including Australia and New Zealand which enables citizens of these nations to enter Canada without needing prior visa approval or permission – though they will be required to present their passport upon arrival at Canadian borders and airports.

Can I Travel to Mexico With Just a Green Card And No Passport?

Travelling to Mexico with just a Green Card and no passport can be possible, but it is not recommended. While the chances of being allowed entry into Mexico without a valid passport are slim, there may be some exceptions depending on the type of travel you are attempting to undertake. The first thing that needs to be taken into consideration when travelling with only a green card is your citizenship status. If you’re an American citizen, then you must have either your original US Passport or another form of accepted documentation in order to enter Mexico (such as a consular identification document). If you are not an American Citizen, then you will need your country’s appropriate passport for entry into Mexico. If you do decide to attempt travelling without proper documentation such as a passport, keep in mind that Mexican border officials could deny access if they determine that the information provided does not match up appropriately. Additionally, it may also take longer for customs officers at the port-of-entry to process your documents due to lack of verification from other sources like passports and visas. This means travellers will have more difficulty getting through immigration quickly and efficiently; there’s no guarantee that this method will work successfully every time – even if everything appears correct on paper.

What Nationalities Can Enter Japan Without Visa?

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, it’s important to understand what nationalities are allowed to enter the country without requiring a visa. While there is no single answer for this question as regulations can change over time and depend on individual circumstances, some general guidelines apply. Below we take a look at who can enter Japan without needing to apply for a visa beforehand. The first thing to note is that all foreign nationals intending to stay in Japan must possess valid passports and most will need visas upon entry. However, certain countries have special agreements with Japan which allow their citizens not only travel but also stay in the country without having obtained visas prior arrival; these are known as “visa-exempt” countries. Currently, 68 countries benefit from such an agreement with Japan including such major destinations like United States of America (USA), Canada, Mexico, Brazil and many European nations like France or Germany. The full list of visa-exempt countries includes: Andorra, Argentina, Austria , Australia , Belgium , Bulgaria , Brunei Darussalam , Canada , Chile*1 , Croatia*2*, Cyprus Czech Republic*, Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Monaco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal Romania San Marino Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland*3 United Kingdom US Virgin Islands USA Vatican City State .

Credit: visaguide.world

Japan Tourist Visa Requirements 2022

Are you planning a trip to Japan in 2022? If so, it is important to know the visa requirements for international travelers. A tourist visa allows visitors to stay in Japan for up to 90 days and explore all that the country has to offer. In this blog post, we will explain what documents are required when applying for a tourist visa and provide tips on how best to prepare your application. When applying for a Japanese Tourist Visa, applicants must first submit an online form with personal information including name, date of birth, and nationality. Once the form is completed and submitted, applicants will need to gather additional documentation required by the embassy or consulate where they plan on submitting their application. This includes: – Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining – Two passport photos – Proof of financial support (bank statements showing sufficient funds) – A copy of return air ticket or travel itinerary – Completed Visa Application Form (available from any Japanese Embassy/Consulate) In addition, some embassies may require additional information such as proof of employment or student status if applicable. It is also important that all documents submitted be originals – no copies accepted! Once these items have been gathered together it’s time to start preparing your application package which should include:

Japan Travel Restrictions

Traveling to Japan has become a dream for many people around the world, but due to the current global pandemic, it is not possible to travel there freely. The Japanese government has imposed strict travel restrictions on visitors from abroad in order to protect its citizens and prevent further spread of COVID-19. First off, all travelers entering Japan must have proof that they are either a permanent resident or have received special permission from the government. If you do manage to get into Japan with one of these statuses, you will need to quarantine yourself upon arrival at your own expense in an approved facility designated by the local health authority. During this 14 day period, travelers are not allowed to leave their hotel room or interact with anyone outside of their family unit unless absolutely necessary. Additionally, if someone breaks any of these regulations during their stay in Japan they face fines and deportation back home. The second requirement is that foreign visitors must present negative results from a PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arriving in the country; otherwise entry will be denied until such time as a valid result can be provided. Furthermore once inside Japan all international arrivals must take another PCR test at their own cost five days after entering the country and isolate themselves again while awaiting for those results which could take up two days or more depending on where it’s done (this does not apply for business trips).

Can U.S. Citizens Travel to Japan Now

The answer to the question of “Can U.S. Citizens Travel To Japan Now?” is yes, however there are some restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As of April 2021, U.S. citizens can travel from the United States to Japan if they meet certain requirements set by Japanese authorities and complete a series of steps before traveling that includes registering on their website, submitting proof of a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to boarding your flight, and obtaining an approved Certificate Of Testing issued by Ministry Of Health Labour And Welfare (MHLW). Additionally, travelers arriving in Japan must submit health declaration forms at immigration upon arrival and have their temperature checked as part of enhanced screening measures implemented by Japanese authorities for all incoming travelers regardless of nationality or purpose for visiting the country. Travelers returning from any location outside Japan will be subject to quarantine regulations upon entry into the country which may require them to remain isolated either at home or in designated facilities while waiting for results from additional testing conducted following arrival in Japan; these rules also apply if you transit through another country between your departure point and destination city/country in Japan . Individuals who refuse mandatory quarantine procedures may be denied entry into the country so it is important for US citizens considering travel plans understand this requirement ahead time before booking flights or other transportation services.

Yes, you can travel to Japan with a green card! As long as your green card is valid and unexpired at the time of entry into Japan, you should have no problem entering the country. In order to enter Japan, however, you will need to obtain a visa. Depending on where you are from and what type of activities or purpose for which you plan to visit in Japan, there are different types of visas that may be relevant. For example, if you wish to stay in Japan for business purposes such as attending conferences or trade shows then it is recommended that your apply for an “Employment” Visa prior to traveling. Additionally, some nationalities may choose apply for multiple-entry visas which allow them greater flexibility while visiting the country; this includes those who are studying Japanese language courses or internships in the country too! Ultimately it is best to contact your local embassy before traveling so they can provide guidance on which visa would best suit your needs and requirements.

Izumi Kenta

Hi, I’m Izumi Kenta from Japan. By profession, I worked as a tourist guide and interpreter in Japan. Besides this profession, I’m a hobbyist blogger. I love to talk about different things about Japan and share them with a wider audience who wants to know about my country. To share my thoughts, I’ve created this site Visitjapan and brought some Japanese travel enthusiasts and tourists worldwide to share their experiences.

One thought on “ Can I Travel to Japan With a Green Card? ”

Thanks for the information.I want to travel to Japan in April 2024 but my green card application is pending.Can I apply for Japanese visa with my my work authorization and formI-130

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Japan Visa – How To Apply For A Japanese Visa

Have a trip to Japan in mind? You will not need a Japan Visa to visit Japan for up to 90 days. Although you will not need a visa for your travel to Japan, a valid United States passport will be needed. You should ensure that your passport is in order and up to date before your travel.

Things to keep in mind:

Check passport validity – All travelers to Japan will need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after they depart Japan. The ideal amount of validity time that should be left on your passport when you depart a country should be roughly 6 months.

Blank visa pages – Japan along with many other countries require at least two blank visa pages in your passport book when you arrive and depart Japan. This will permit any necessary stamps that will need to be stamped in your passport during your travel.

Transit Visa – Sometimes a transit visa is required when traveling to a country on a connecting flight. Countries that your fight stops at overseas may need to see a transit visa when connecting flights.

NOTE: Some airline companies may still board passengers even though their passports are expired. This will cause issues when the traveler arrives in Japan and may be denied entry into the country. The United States Embassy and Consulate cannot help you if your passport is expired. Inquire about your passport status to help avoid this problem.

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How to Apply for a US Visit Visa in Japan

If planning for a US trip has been on your radar for quite some time now, then you should know the general requirements you’ll have to prepare to get your application underway.

If you’ve tried applying for other types of visit visas such as the Schengen tourist visa , then you know that getting all the needed documents requires ample time – at least two months before your intended date of travel overseas. If you’re visiting the US for travel and leisure, then you will have to apply for a B-2 (visitor) visa in Japan first. Here’s how:

Applying for a US Visit Visa in Japan

Under the B-2 Visa, it is understood that your sole purpose of travel to the US involves purposes such as recreation, tourism, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment, as well as activities which are of social, fraternal or service in nature. Applying for a US tourist visa involves the following:

 Requirements

• A completely filled-out NonImmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form which you can access and read more about from this website .
• Your valid and original passport for your travel in the US. The passport’s travel validity must be at least six (6) months after your intended stay in the US. If you are travelling with company, each person must file an application for a Tourist Visa.
• All your previous travel documents (i.e. expired passports and visas) during the last ten (10) years.
• One (1) recent colour 2”x 2” photograph in white background (to be attached on the upper left-hand corner of the DS-160 confirmation page).
• A letter of your interview appointment schedule issued by this website .
• Non-Japanese citizens will also have to submit copies of both sides of their Japanese Alien Registration or “Zairyu” Card

Note: You may also bring supporting documents to strengthen your visa application that you can provide the receiving consular officer.  You may consider the following supporting documents for your visa application:

• Your current proof of financial standing (proof of income, tax statements, assets, property or business ownership)
• Your travel schedule and/or other details of your trip to the US
• A letter of employment from the company you work for, indicating your employment status and details such as your job position, employment start date, your salary, your authorized vacation or business leave, if any, for your trip to the US.
• Any criminal or court records relating to any prior arrest or imprisonment anywhere, even if your case had been pardoned or if you have served your sentence.
• Complete the DS-160 form and print a copy of the confirmation page. You will need the DS-160 number to book an appointment for your visa interview.

Important: Make sure that all the pieces of information you input on your DS-160 Application form are factual and correct. Once you have submitted your DS-160 Form online, you will shortly receive the DS-160 Confirmation Page for printing. Remember to bring this on your day of interview.

• Pay the required visa application service fee as detailed on this page .
• Login using the credentials you entered to settle your visa payment to access your profile and dashboard. Click ‘Continue’ on the left-hand side options. You will be prompted to select from a list of available dates for your visa interview.
• Go to the US Embassy or Consulates on your scheduled date and time of interview.

Important: When your visa application has been accepted for processing, your passport will be typically retained at the consulate or embassy you applied at for a week at most. Should you need your passport for other purposes such as for traveling overseas within this time period, it is best to reschedule your visa appointment interview to a date when you have returned in the country, if possible.

• Once your visa has been approved, the documents will be sent via mail to the designated address you selected when you scheduled your interview appointment.

N ote: It’s important to review the guidelines posted on the Track and Retrieve my Passport page to make sure that your passport document is delivered on time and without fail.

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Exemption of Visa (Short-Term Stay)

Japan has taken measures on the visa exemption arrangements for 71 countries/regions as shown in the chart below.

・Period of Stay

• The period of stay granted at the time of the landing permission will be "15 days" for Indonesia and Thailand, “14 days” for Brunei, "30 days" for United Arab Emirates and Qatar, and "90 days" for other countries and regions.
• (Note 1) For nationals of Indonesia (since December 1, 2014), visas are not required only for those who have registered ICAO-compliant ePassport to diplomatic missions of Japan in Indonesia (the embassy, consulates-general, or the consulate). Validity of the registration is three years period or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
• (Note 2) For nationals of Malaysia (since July 1, 2013), visas are not required only for holders of ePassport in compliance with ICAO standards. Those who do not hold such ePassport are advised to obtain a visa in advance, otherwise will be strictly examined and may be refused entry to Japan.
• (Note 3) For nationals of Panama (since April 1, 2024), Brazil (since September 30, 2023), United Arab Emirates (since November 1, 2022), Thailand (since July 1, 2013) and Serbia (since May 1, 2011), visas are not required only for holders of ePassport in compliance with ICAO standards. Those who do not hold such ePassport are requested to obtain a visa in advance, otherwise will be refused to enter Japan.
• (Note 4) For citizens of Hong Kong, visas are not required only for holders of Special Administrative Region (SAR) passport issued by the Hong Kong SAR of the People’s Republic of China or British National Overseas (BNO) passports who have the right of residence in Hong Kong.
• (Note 5) For citizens of Macao, visas are not required only for holders of SAR passport issued by the Macao SAR of the People’s Republic of China.
• (Note 6) Visa exemption arrangements for Taiwan is limited to passport holders with a personal ID number.
• (Note 7) For nationals of Barbados (since April 1, 2010), Türkiye (since April 1, 2011) and Lesotho (since April 1, 2010), visas are not required only for holders of Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) in compliance with ICAO standards. Those who do not hold an MRP are advised to obtain a visa in advance, otherwise will be strictly examined and may be refused entry to Japan.
• (Note 8) For nationals of those countries with visa exemptions permitting stays of up to 6 months under the bilateral visa exemption arrangements, those who wish to stay in Japan for more than 90 days are required to apply for an extension of the period of stay to the Ministry of Justice (Regional Immigration Bureau) before the period of permitted stay is to expire.
• (Note 9) For nationals of Qatar (since April 2, 2023), visas are not required only for those who have registered ICAO-compliant ePassport to diplomatic missions of Japan (the embassy, consulates-general, or the consulate). Validity of the registration is three years period or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
• (Note 10)Nationals of Peru (since July 15,1995) and Colombia (since February 1, 2004) are advised to obtain a visa in advance, otherwise will be strictly examined and may be refused entry to Japan.

Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) in compliance with ICAO standards

MRP in compliance with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards has certain individual information, which is able to be read by computer, entered on the identity page of the passport.

ePassport in compliance with ICAO standards

ePassport in compliance with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards has IC chip that stores certain individual and biometric data including a digital image of the passport photograph. ePassport in compliance with ICAO standards has ePassport’s symbol on the front cover of the passport.

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The purpose of your intended travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law. As a visa applicant, you will need to establish that you meet all requirements to receive the category of visa for which you are applying. When you apply at a U.S embassy or consulate, a consular officer will determine based on laws, whether you are eligible to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate.

Nonimmigrant Visa Categories

The chart below contains many different purposes of temporary travel and the related nonimmigrant visa categories available on this website. Select a visa category below to learn more:

*What the abbreviations above mean  - Before applying for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, the following is required:

• DOL = The U.S. employer must obtain foreign labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor, prior to filing a petition with USCIS.
• USCIS = U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approval of a petition or application (The required petition or application depends on the visa category you plan to apply for.)
• SEVIS = Program approval entered in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
• (NA) = Not Applicable - Additional approval by another U.S. government agency is not required prior to applying for a visa

Important Notes:

• About this chart – It is not a complete list of all travel purposes for the visa category. Select a visa category webpage for more information. The chart lists almost all nonimmigrant visa categories, with the exception of several not listed above. Refer to the Foreign Affairs Manual, 9 FAM 402.1  for all nonimmigrant visa categories.
• Canadian NAFTA Professional workers – A visa not required; apply to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at border port of entry.
• K nonimmigrant visas – For U.S. citizen fiancé(e) and spouse for immigration related purposes. Refer to Immigrant Visa Categories .

Immigrant Visa Categories

The chart below contains different purposes for immigrating to the United States, and the related immigrant visa categories for which information is available on this website. Select a visa category below to learn more:

* K Visas – Listed with immigrant visas because they are for immigration related purposes.

About this chart - This chart is a list of many immigrant visa categories, but not every immigrant visa category.

** Refer to the Foreign Affairs Manual, 9 FAM 502.1  for a listing of all immigrant visa categories.

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Afghanistan - apply at your nearest accessible visa application centre

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Nicaragua - apply at your nearest accessible visa application centre in the Americas

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Palau - apply through Philippines

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Paraguay - apply through Argentina

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Pitcairn, Henderson, Dulcie and Oeno Islands - apply at your nearest accessible visa application centre

Samoa and Western Samoa - apply through Fiji

San Marino - apply through Italy

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Slovakia – apply at your nearest accessible visa application centre

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