Complete Guide to Getting a Tourist Visa for Japan (Updated as of December 2025)
Japan remains one of the world’s most fascinating travel destinations, blending ancient temples, futuristic cities, incredible cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms in spring, autumn foliage, or winter snow festivals, the first step for many travelers is securing the right entry permission.
Good news for many: As of late 2025, citizens of 74 countries and regions enjoy visa-free entry for short-term stays (typically up to 90 days for tourism). If your nationality is on this list, you can skip the visa process entirely — just ensure your passport is valid for your entire stay.
Step 1: Check If You Need a Visa (Visa Exemption List)
Japan has reciprocal visa exemption arrangements with the following countries/regions for short-term tourism/business stays. The standard stay is 90 days, with exceptions noted:
- Asia: Brunei (30 days), Indonesia (15 days – requires registered ICAO-compliant ePassport), Malaysia, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand (15 days – ePassport required), Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR, Taiwan.
- Europe: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro (ePassport required), Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia (ePassport required), Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom.
- North America: Canada, United States.
- Latin America/Caribbean: Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados (MRP required), Brazil (ePassport required), Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama (ePassport required), Paraguay (ePassport required), Peru (ePassport required), Suriname, Uruguay (old passport version only).
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.
- Middle East: Israel, Qatar (30 days – registered ePassport), Türkiye (MRP required), United Arab Emirates (ePassport required).
- Africa: Lesotho (MRP required), Mauritius, Tunisia.
Recent additions/updates in 2025 include Paraguay (from May/June), Peru (from July), and Montenegro (from September), all with ePassport conditions.
If your country is NOT on this list (e.g., China, India, Philippines, Vietnam, Russia, most African and some Asian nations), you must apply for a tourist visa in advance.
Tip: Always verify the latest list and conditions on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website, as arrangements can change.
Step 2: If You Need a Visa – Choose Your Application Method
Japan offers two main ways to apply for a short-term tourist visa (single-entry, up to 90 days):
- JAPAN eVISA (Electronic Visa) – Recommended when available
This online system is fast, paperless, and ideal for tourism.
- Eligible residents (as of December 2025): Nationals/people living in Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, United Kingdom, U.S.A. (except those already visa-exempt).
- Process: Apply via the official JAPAN eVISA website, upload documents, and receive an electronic visa. Display the “Visa issuance notice” digitally at the airport.
- Great for simple tourism applications — no sticker in your passport!
- Traditional Paper Application
Submit through:
- The Embassy/Consulate-General of Japan with jurisdiction over your residence.
- An accredited agency or Japan Visa Application Centre (JVAC) (e.g., VFS Global in countries like Philippines, India, etc.).
- This is required for most nationalities not eligible for eVISA, or for multiple-entry/other purposes.
Important: Applications cannot be submitted from inside Japan. Apply 1.5–3 months before travel (no earlier than 3 months in many places).
Step 3: Required Documents for a Tourist Visa
Core documents (requirements may vary slightly by embassy/country – always check your local Japanese diplomatic mission):
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity recommended, even if not strictly required).
- Completed Visa Application Form (download from MOFA site).
- One recent passport-sized photo (taken within 6 months).
- Detailed itinerary/schedule of stay in Japan (specific daily plans — vague descriptions like “tourism” are not enough).
- Proof of financial ability (bank statements, salary slips, tax returns showing you can support yourself).
- Proof of ties to home country (employment letter, property ownership, family details — to show you’ll return).
- Round-trip flight reservations (bookings are usually sufficient; paid tickets not always required).
- Hotel/accommodation bookings.
If visiting friends/relatives:
- Invitation Letter from host in Japan.
- Letter of Guarantee.
- Proof of relationship.
- Guarantor’s financial documents.
Additional notes:
- No COVID-19 tests/vaccines/quarantine required in 2025.
- International travel insurance is highly recommended.
- Processing time: Usually 5–10 working days, but allow more if extra checks are needed.
- Fees: Vary by nationality/location (some are free/gratis for tourism; VFS centers add service fees).
Step 4: Application Process Summary
- Determine if you need a visa → Check exemption list.
- Gather all documents → Tailor to your situation.
- Choose method → eVISA (if eligible) or embassy/VFS appointment.
- Submit application → Pay fees if applicable.
- Wait for approval → Track via the channel you applied through.
- Travel → Present passport (and eVISA notice if applicable) at immigration. Remember: A visa does not guarantee entry — final decision is at the port of entry.
Pro Tips for Success
- Be honest and thorough — inconsistencies can lead to refusal.
- Provide strong proof of intent to return home.
- Avoid last-minute applications.
- Beware of fraud — only use official websites (mofa.go.jp) and authorized centers.
Japan welcomes responsible tourists with open arms. With proper preparation, your visa process will be smooth, leaving you free to enjoy everything from Tokyo’s vibrant streets to Kyoto’s serene temples.
Safe travels — and enjoy your adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun! 🇯🇵
