United States ESTA (Visa Waiver)
Electronic System for Travel Authorization · For Japan citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a Japanese citizen? You can use the Visa Waiver Program with ESTA authorization. The $21 fee covers a 2-year authorization for multiple visits up to 90 days each. This guide covers the online application process, requirements, and tips for smooth US entry.
US ESTA for Japanese Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Japan citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Japanese e-Passport (with chip) valid for duration of stay
Complete the online ESTA application at the official CBP website
Evidence of onward travel out of the United States
Evidence you can support yourself during your visit
Address where you will stay in the United States
Application Process
Japanese citizens can visit the United States for up to 90 days using the Visa Waiver Program with an approved ESTA.1 The application is completed entirely online.
Step 1: Gather Information
Before starting, have ready:
- Your Japanese e-Passport
- Credit or debit card for payment
- US address where you will stay
- Employment information
Step 2: Complete Online Application
Visit the official ESTA website at esta.cbp.dhs.gov and complete the application.1 You will provide:
- Personal details (name, date of birth, nationality)
- Passport information (number, expiration date, country of issuance)
- Travel information (flight details if known, US address)
- Eligibility questions about health, criminal history, and previous travel
- Contact information
Step 3: Pay the Fee
The total fee is US$21, payable by credit card, debit card, or PayPal.1 Payment is required before your application is processed.
Step 4: Receive Authorization
Most applications are approved within minutes. Some may take up to 72 hours.1 You will receive one of three responses:
- Authorization Approved: You can travel to the US
- Travel Not Authorized: You must apply for a visa instead
- Authorization Pending: Check back within 72 hours
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| ESTA Processing Fee | $4 |
| ESTA Authorization Fee | $17 |
| Total | $21 |
The authorization fee is only charged if your ESTA is approved. If denied, you only pay the $4 processing fee.1
What You Need to Prove
At the US border, officers verify you meet Visa Waiver Program requirements:3
- Valid ESTA authorization linked to your passport1
- Return or onward ticket showing you will leave within 90 days3
- Genuine visitor intent for tourism, business meetings, or transit3
- Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay3
- No intention to work or remain beyond 90 days3
Processing Times
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| ESTA Application | Instant to 72 hours |
| Border Entry | 15-45 minutes |
| Global Entry (if enrolled) | 5 minutes |
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before travel. Last-minute applications may cause delays if additional processing is needed.
At the US Border
Upon arrival, you will go through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspection:
- Passport Control: Present your passport; ESTA is checked electronically
- Questioning: Be prepared to answer questions about your visit
- Fingerprints and Photo: Biometrics are collected
- Customs Declaration: Declare any goods as required
Keep your return ticket and accommodation details accessible. Border officers may ask to see them.
After Your ESTA is Approved
Your ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.1 During this time, you can make unlimited trips to the US.
Important rules:
- Each visit is limited to 90 days maximum
- The 90-day limit includes time spent in Canada, Mexico, or Caribbean islands
- You cannot extend your stay or change your immigration status
- Frequent extended visits may raise concerns about your intentions
If Your ESTA is Denied
If your ESTA is not authorized:2
- Do not reapply immediately as it will likely be denied again
- Apply for a B-1/B-2 visa at the US Embassy in Tokyo
- Schedule a visa interview which typically takes several weeks
- Prepare documentation showing your ties to Japan and travel purpose
Common reasons for ESTA denial include:
- Previous US visa denial or entry refusal
- Travel to certain countries (Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen)
- Criminal history
- Previous overstay in the US
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Eligibility Question Concerns
Answers to the eligibility questions about criminal history, previous visa denials, or travel to certain countries triggered additional review or denial.
How to avoid: Answer all questions honestly. If you have concerns about your eligibility, consider applying for a B-1/B-2 visa instead.
Invalid Passport
Passport is not an e-Passport, is damaged, or details were entered incorrectly on the application.
How to avoid: Double-check all passport information before submitting. Ensure your passport has the e-Passport chip symbol.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of overstaying in the US, previous visa denial, or entry refusal.
How to avoid: If you have had previous US immigration issues, you may need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visa and explain the circumstances.
Incomplete Application
Missing information or payment failure prevented the application from being processed.
How to avoid: Complete all fields and confirm payment was successful. Save your application number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Japanese citizens need a visa for the USA?
No. Japan is part of the Visa Waiver Program, so Japanese citizens can visit for tourism or business for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA. A visa is only needed for longer stays, work, or study.
How long is ESTA valid?
ESTA authorization is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can make multiple trips during this period without reapplying.
How long can I stay in the US with ESTA?
Each visit can be up to 90 days. You cannot extend your stay or change status while in the US under the Visa Waiver Program. The 90-day limit includes any side trips to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean.
What is the ESTA fee for Japanese citizens?
The total ESTA fee is US$21, which includes a $4 processing fee and $17 authorization fee. Payment is made online by credit card during the application.
How quickly is ESTA approved?
Most ESTA applications are approved within minutes. However, some may take up to 72 hours. Apply at least 72 hours before your flight to allow processing time.
Can I work in the US with ESTA?
No. ESTA is only for tourism, business meetings, or transit. Any paid work requires a proper work visa. This includes remote work for US or Japanese companies while physically in the US.
What if my ESTA is denied?
If denied, you will need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa at the US Embassy in Tokyo. The denial reason is usually not provided, but it often relates to answers on the eligibility questions.
Do I need to print my ESTA?
No. ESTA is linked electronically to your passport. Airlines and CBP officers can access your authorization digitally. However, keeping a copy of your application number is helpful.