All travelers entering Japan must submit a completed Customs Declaration, also known as the Japan CD.
Paper customs documents used to be completed on arrival, but the system has now been digitalized. The best way to complete your Customs Declaration card is online before you travel.
What Is the Japan Entry Customs Declaration Form?
The Japan CD is a type of arrival card that gives officials information about items you’re bringing with you into the country. It’s a key part of Japanese immigration and customs controls.
Your completed form is valid for a one-time entry to Japan. It’s one of the essential requirements for entry to the country. Travelers can complete a Customs Declaration on arrival, but many people choose to complete it in advance to save time.
The application form asks about the duration of your stay. However, how long you’re allowed to stay in Japan depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. The CD form is not a type of visa.
Note: The Customs Declaration is not the same as the Disembarkation Card for Japan. It’s another obligatory form that must be completed by all travelers.
Who needs a Japan CD?
The Japan travel declaration is a mandatory requirement for all passengers. This includes Japanese citizens and permanent residents. However, children of all nationalities are exempt.
You’ll be asked to scan your approved travel declaration QR code when passing through customs on arrival in Japan.
What information do I need to give?
When filling out the form, you’ll be asked for some personal details, like your nationality and country of residence. The form also has a section on your travel itinerary for Japan.
The purpose of the Japan CD is to collect information on items passengers are bringing into the country, to ensure customs rules are followed.
Medications, tobacco, or alcohol, can be brought to Japan under certain quantity restrictions. By completing the Customs Declaration form accurately, you can ensure you comply with local entry rules.
Declaring items at Japanese customs
Some items must be declared when passing through Japanese customs controls, such as:
- Currency over the value of 1 million yen or equivalent
- Precious metals in quantities over 2.2 pounds (1 kg) in weight
Some meat, egg, and vegetable products require inspection and certification before they can be brought into Japan. You must declare any unsealed, or non-store-bought food items to customs officials.
Key Details for Travelers
- Gives details of items you’re carrying
- Required by all adult travelers
- Mandatory for air passengers
- Citizens of all countries can apply online
- Complete the form in 10 minutes or less
- Get a QR code to show on arrival
- Valid for a single entry to Japan
Get Your Japan CD Online
The application process is 100% online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your Japan entry Customs Declaration form:
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1. Fill outFill out the application form: You’ll be asked to give some personal details, as well as information on your travel plans, and items in your luggage.
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2. PayPay the Customs Declaration fee: To submit your application on our site, make the service fee payment. Once complete, your form will be processed.
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3. ConfirmGet email confirmation: You’ll receive a response within 3 days, but most people hear back within 1 to 2 days. If approved, your QR code will be sent via email.
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4. SaveTravel with your approved QR code: Save your CD form QR code to your mobile device. Present it to authorities when you arrive in Japan to pass through customs quickly and easily.
For more detailed information, check our comprehensive application guide.
Support and guidance throughout the application process
You can request your immigration declaration for Japan through the official government site at no charge. However, many travelers prefer to get the expert guidance of travel document experts when making their application.
Make your application through our site to benefit from our additional services, which are not offered by the government site.
We specialize in helping you get the Japan CD quickly and easily. Our time-saving application process is designed to help you avoid mistakes on your form which can result in delays or rejection.
Our customers benefit from:
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User-friendly designSpecially adapted application form that’s easy to complete
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Guidance at every stageBuilt-in tooltips to help you fill out each section correctly
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Error-checking serviceYour form is assessed by experts before processing
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Customer support when you need itHelp is available in over 15 languages
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Fee guaranteeRequest a 100% refund if your form is rejected
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Email re-sendGet your QR code sent again if you lose your original email
| Our service fee: USD $49 |
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| Quick processing |
| English language form |
| Approval guaranteed |
Ready to start your application? Fill out your form today, and we’ll process your customs and immigration form at the right time for your travel dates.
For urgent requests, opt in for our Priority Service. For an additional fee, you’ll receive a decision on your application in just 24 hours.
How To Use Your Approved CD Form
Once you’ve got your approved Japan immigration card online, it’s quick and easy to navigate customs entry on arrival.
Simply download your QR code to your mobile device so that it’s ready to present once you’ve landed in Japan. You can also print a paper copy to carry with you if you prefer.
Many of Japan’s largest airports have electronic customs declaration gates, also known as e-Gates, to facilitate the customs declaration service. These include:
- Fukuoka Airport (FUK), Fukuoka
- Naha Airport (OKA), Okinawa
- Kansai International Airport (KIX), Osaka
- New Chitose Airport (CTS), Sapporo
- Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), Tokoname
- Narita International Airport (NRT), Tokyo
- Haneda Airport (HND), Tokyo
If your destination airport has e-Gates, you’ll be requested to scan your QR code and passport to pass through customs controls.
At other locations, you’ll present your approved travel declaration QR code and passport to a Japanese customs officer.