Japan Tourist Visa
Short-term Stay Visa (Tourism) · For Colombia citizens
Planning a trip to Japan as a Colombian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the tourist visa application: required documents, fees starting at $25 USD, processing times of 5-7 business days, and tips to strengthen your application. With proper preparation, most Colombian applicants successfully obtain their Japan visa.
Japan Tourist Visa for Colombian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Colombia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Colombian passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Japan
Complete the official Japanese visa application form
Recent passport-sized photograph meeting Japanese specifications
Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your trip
Detailed plan of your activities and accommodation in Japan
Documentation proving your employment status in Colombia
Recommended (Optional)
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Colombia
Application Process
Japanese tourist visa applications must be submitted through the Embassy of Japan in Bogotá or through authorized travel agencies.1 The process involves four main steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents including your passport, completed application form, photo, financial statements, travel itinerary, and employment proof.1 Use the embassy checklist to ensure nothing is missing.
2. Submit Application
Visit the Embassy of Japan in Bogotá or an authorized visa agency to submit your application.1 Some applicants may be able to use the Japan eVisa system through accredited agencies.2
3. Wait for Processing
Standard processing takes 5-7 business days.3 During peak season or if additional verification is needed, processing may take up to 2 weeks.3 Do not make non-refundable travel bookings until your visa is approved.
4. Collect Your Passport
Once approved, the visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Collect it from the embassy or agency where you submitted your application.
Fees
| Visa Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry (up to 90 days) | US$25 | Standard tourist visa |
| Multiple Entry | US$57 | For frequent travelers |
Fees are payable at the time of application submission. Some authorized agencies may charge additional service fees.
What You Need to Prove
To obtain a Japan tourist visa, you must demonstrate:1
- Genuine tourism purpose: Clear itinerary showing legitimate sightseeing plans
- Sufficient funds: Bank statements showing you can support yourself during your stay
- Intention to return: Strong ties to Colombia such as employment, property, or family
- Valid travel documents: Passport with adequate validity and blank pages
Processing Times
Standard processing for Japan tourist visas from Colombia is 5-7 business days.3
Processing may take longer if:3
- You apply during peak travel season (cherry blossom season, Golden Week)
- Additional document verification is required
- Your application is incomplete
Plan to apply at least 3 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for any delays.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, check your visa sticker for:
- Entry type (single or multiple)
- Validity period
- Maximum stay duration
At Japanese immigration, you may be asked to show:
- Return flight tickets
- Hotel reservations
- Proof of funds
- Detailed travel itinerary
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive a notification explaining the general reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues
- Wait if advised to apply again after a certain period
- Seek assistance from an immigration lawyer or authorized travel agency
A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications. Address the concerns raised and provide stronger evidence in your next application.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds or demonstrate suspicious patterns such as large unexplained deposits.
How to avoid: Show 3 months of statements with consistent balance of at least $3,000 USD. Avoid large deposits in the weeks before applying.
Incomplete or Vague Itinerary
Travel plans are unclear, unrealistic, or lack specific details about accommodation and activities.
How to avoid: Provide a detailed day-by-day itinerary with hotel bookings and specific attractions you plan to visit.
Weak Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Colombia after the visit.
How to avoid: Include employment letter, property documents, family certificates, or evidence of ongoing commitments in Colombia.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or forms not properly filled out.
How to avoid: Use the embassy checklist and double-check all documents before submission. Ensure all forms are signed.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals or overstays in Japan or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues and provide explanation letters detailing changed circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Colombian citizens need a visa for Japan?
Yes, Colombian citizens require a visa to visit Japan. You must apply for a Short-term Stay Visa for tourism purposes before traveling.
How long can I stay in Japan on a tourist visa?
The tourist visa allows stays of up to 90 days. The specific duration granted depends on your itinerary and the consulate's assessment.
Can I apply for a Japan eVisa from Colombia?
Japan has been expanding its eVisa system. Check the official MOFA website for the latest eligibility, as Colombian citizens may now apply online through accredited agencies.
How much money do I need to show for a Japan visa?
While there is no official minimum, showing an average daily bank balance of at least $3,000 USD over the past 3 months is recommended to demonstrate sufficient funds.
What is the Japan visa fee for Colombian citizens?
The standard single-entry visa fee is approximately $25 USD. Multiple entry visas cost around $57 USD. Fees may vary slightly by consulate.
How long does Japan visa processing take?
Standard processing takes 5-7 business days. During peak travel seasons or if additional documents are needed, it may take up to 2 weeks.
Can I work on a Japan tourist visa?
No, the tourist visa does not permit any form of paid or unpaid work in Japan. Any work activities require an appropriate work visa.
What happens if my Japan visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal notice. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the concerns raised. There is no formal appeal process for tourist visa refusals.