Discover Japan
Japan, a blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity, attracts millions with its temples, cities, and natural beauty. As of March 2025, citizens from 71 countries enjoy visa-free entry for 15, 30, or 90 days, depending on nationality. Starting in 2025, the Japan Electronic Travel Authorization (JESTA) system will require pre-clearance for visa-exempt travelers, enhancing security and streamlining entry. Non-exempt nationals must obtain a visa from a Japanese embassy or consulate.
Required Documents
Valid Passport
No minimum validity required, but must be valid during stay; e-Passport needed for some visa exemptions.
Visa or JESTA
Visa-free (15-90 days) for 71 countries with JESTA pre-clearance in 2025; others need a consular visa (~$25-$50 USD).
Passport Photo
1 recent photo (4.5 x 3.5 cm, white background) for consular visa applications.
Travel Itinerary
Proof of return or onward ticket within allowed stay, required at entry.
Accommodation Proof
Hotel booking or host details, recommended for entry.
Travel Insurance
Recommended; covers medical emergencies (not mandatory).
Proof of Funds
Evidence of sufficient funds (~$100 USD/day), may be requested.
Visa Fee (if applicable)
JESTA: TBD (~$7 USD est.); consular visa: ~$25-$50 USD, varies by nationality.
How to Apply
Application Steps
Check Eligibility
Gather Documents
Apply for JESTA or Visa
Submit & Pay
Processing
Receive Approval
Enter Japan
Check Eligibility
Gather Documents
Apply for JESTA or Visa
Submit & Pay
Processing
Receive Approval
Enter Japan
1. Check Eligibility
Confirm if visa-free (e.g., USA: 90 days) with JESTA or consular visa required (e.g., India, China).
2. Gather Documents
Prepare passport, itinerary, funds proof, and photo if applying for a visa.
3. Apply for JESTA or Visa
JESTA online for visa-free nationals (2025); consular visa at embassy, 1-2 weeks prior.
4. Submit & Pay
Pay JESTA fee online (TBD); consular visa fees (~$25-$50 USD) at embassy.
5. Processing
JESTA: 24-72 hours est.; consular visa: 5-10 business days; expedited options unavailable.
6. Receive Approval
JESTA emailed; visa collected from embassy or stamped at entry.
7. Enter Japan
Present passport, JESTA/visa, and docs at entry (e.g., Narita Airport); fingerprints/photo taken.
Visa Fees
- Visa-free entry (15-90 days): Free with JESTA (~$7 USD est.) for 71 countries (e.g., USA, UK).
- Consular Visa (up to 90 days): ~$25 USD (single-entry), ~$50 USD (multiple-entry) for visa-required nationals.
- Extension (additional 90 days): Apply at Immigration Office, fees vary (~$30 USD).
- Transit Visa: ~$6 USD for short stopovers, if required.
*Fees subject to change. Confirm details at mofa.go.jp.
FAQ
Do I need a visa for Japan in 2025?
71 countries (e.g., USA, EU) get 15-90 days visa-free with JESTA; others need a consular visa.
What’s JESTA?
A new 2025 electronic pre-clearance for visa-exempt travelers, similar to U.S. ESTA, costing ~$7 USD (est.).
Can I extend my stay?
Yes, apply for a 90-day extension at an Immigration Office before your initial stay expires (~$30 USD).
Is a vaccine or test required?
No COVID-19 protocols as of 2025; yellow fever vaccine needed if from risk areas.
What’s Japan’s passport rank in 2025?
Ranked 2nd globally, with visa-free access to 192 destinations (Henley Index).
References
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: mofa.go.jp
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan: immi-moj.go.jp
- Japan National Tourism Organization: japan.travel