Nippon Tours
Japan Visa Guide: Who Needs One and How to Apply

Japan Visa Guide: Who Needs One and How to Apply

6 min read · By the Nippon Tours team

Visa-free entry: most travellers qualify

Citizens of 70+ countries and regions — including the United States, United Kingdom, EU member states, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore — can enter Japan without a visa for short-term tourism, typically up to 90 days. You'll simply need a passport valid for the duration of your stay and an onward or return ticket.

Visit Japan Web: do this before you fly

Japan streamlines arrival through Visit Japan Web, where you pre-register your immigration and customs details and receive QR codes to scan on arrival. It's free, takes about 15 minutes, and can save you a long queue at the airport. We send all our guests a step-by-step walkthrough before departure.

If you do need a visa

Travellers from countries outside the exemption list apply through their nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. You'll generally need a passport, application form, photo, proof of funds, flight itinerary and a day-by-day schedule of your stay — which we provide for all confirmed bookings, along with hotel confirmations.

Processing usually takes 5–10 working days, but apply at least a month ahead to be safe.

How we help

Every Nippon Tours booking includes the documents consulates ask for: a detailed itinerary, accommodation list and booking confirmation. Unsure about your situation? Message us your nationality and travel dates and we'll confirm exactly what you need — it's part of the free consultation.

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