Japan Visa Requirements

Citizens from 71 countries including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, EU nations, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia can visit Japan visa-free for 15-90 days depending on nationality. Indian, Chinese, Filipino, and most other Asian and African nationalities require a visa.

Standard processing takes 5 working days from submission. During peak seasons or for complex applications, processing may take up to 2 weeks. Some embassies offer expedited processing for urgent travel.

Yes, Japan does not charge a visa fee for short-term tourism visas for most nationalities. However, some countries may have reciprocal fees. Long-term visas may have different fee structures.

Japan has a moderate approval rate averaging around 77%. Chinese applicants see rates around 90%, Indians 88%, Filipinos 85%, while Pakistani applicants face higher refusal rates around 48%.

Tourist visa holders can typically stay for 15, 30, or 90 days depending on nationality and visa type. Visa-free visitors from most Western countries get 90 days, while some Asian countries receive 15 or 30 days.

Required documents include a valid passport, completed application form, recent photo, flight itinerary, accommodation details, proof of funds (bank statements), employment certificate, and a detailed travel itinerary showing planned activities.

Extensions are generally not granted for tourism purposes. You must leave Japan before your permitted stay expires. Overstaying can result in detention, fines, and future entry bans.

If you remain in the international transit area and depart within 24 hours, no visa is needed. If you wish to leave the airport or have an extended layover, you may need a transit visa depending on your nationality.