Everyone entering Japan must follow the country’s entry rules. To clear immigration and customs, you need to follow all entry rules.
This page has detailed information on Japan’s immigration requirements. We’ll go over passport rules, visa options, and other important travel documents.
What Do You Need To Enter Japan?
Like traveling to most countries, you’ll need to fill out some paperwork to enter Japan. Here’s a checklist of the Japanese requirements for entry:
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Valid passport
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Visa (if needed)
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Completed Customs Declaration form
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Completed Disembarkation Card for foreign nationals
If you qualify for a visa on arrival or a visa-free stay in Japan, you might also need to show proof you plan to leave Japan. For example, you be asked to show a return flight ticket.
Japanese Passport Rules
- All travelers arriving in Japan need a valid passport. It must be valid for the entire time you’re in Japan
- You’re recommended to make sure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity beyond your travel dates
- If you don’t need a visa for a short stay, your passport must have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps
Entering Japan: Customs and Disembarkation Cards
There are two documents needed to enter Japan:
- Customs Declaration form
- Disembarkation Card
You must fill out these documents carefully, and show them to the customs officials at border controls when you arrive.
Online Customs Declaration form
To save time and avoid errors on a paper form, many travelers prefer to complete the Customs Declaration form online before traveling.
Simply, fill out your details and travel plans in the online form. You’ll also be asked to give information on the items you’re carrying. This is to make sure you’re following Japanese customs rules.
You can make your application quickly and easily through our site. We’ll send your approved Customs Declaration QR code by email. Simply download or print it to show to customs officials on arrival.
Japanese Disembarkation Card
All foreign visitors to Japan must fill out a Disembarkation Card, no matter why they are traveling. The only exception is for foreigners who already live in Japan.
It’s possible to complete an online form through the official government site or through the app of the same name.
You can also fill out your Disembarkation Card during your flight to Japan. Airline staff will give a paper card to all passengers who need one.
Visa Requirements for Entry to Japan
Depending on where you’re from and the reason for your visit, you may need a visa to enter Japan.
Citizens of around 70 countries can enter Japan visa-free. This includes people from the United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and most European countries.
If you do not need a visa, your passport will be stamped when you arrive. Most travelers can stay for 90 days visa-free, but this depends on your nationality.
Tourist visas for Japan
If you need a visa to enter Japan, you can apply for a tourist visa. It permits stays of up to 90 days for leisure, business, or visiting family or friends.
Most people need to apply through their nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. You’ll have to fill out an application form and bring some extra documents.
The documents you’ll need depend on your reason for visiting. If you’re traveling for tourism, you must provide:
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Passport size photograph
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Flight or boat crossing reservations for your trip
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Hotel reservations for your time in Japan
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Proof of sufficient funds to cover your vacation
To apply to visit family or friends, you’ll be asked to also submit proof of your relationship. The proof could be a birth certificate, or communications between you and your point of contact in Japan.
If you’re traveling to attend a business meeting or conference, you must attach an invitation letter from the Japanese company you’ll be working with.
Reminder: You cannot work for a Japanese company while visiting on a tourist visa, or without a visa. To work in Japan, you must get the right type of work permit.
Apply online for a Japanese tourist visa
If you live in one of the following countries, you can make an online application for your tourist visa:
- Australia
- Brazil
- Cambodia
- Canada
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- South Africa
- Taiwan
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
Note: Your eligibility to apply for the online tourism visa is based on where you live, not your nationality.
Other types of visas for Japan
Japan has many other types of visas for foreign nationals, including medical visit visas, work permits, and long-term stay visas.
If you want to live, work, or study in Japan, you must apply for a visa through a Japanese embassy or consulate. Contact the nearest office to learn exactly what you need to do.
The official Immigration Services Agency of Japan has a hotline for foreign nationals with visa concerns. It’s possible to speak with staff in many different languages, including English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, and French.
To call from outside Japan, the contact number is: +81 35796 7112.
Travel Requirements for Japanese Citizens and Residents
The requirements for Japanese citizens and residents are similar to those for foreign citizens. You must present a valid passport and a completed Customs Declaration form.
If you’re a foreign national living in Japan, you must also carry your residence card.
Re-entry permits for foreign residents
If you have a residency permit in Japan, you need a re-entry permit to leave and come back. Residents who plan to return within 1 year can get a special re-entry permit.
You must get your re-entry permit before leaving Japan. You'll have to present it when you arrive back in the country.
You can contact Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs about concerns relating to your visa, residence, or re-entry permit. The local telephone number of the Foreign Residents Support Centre is: 0570 011000.
Health Regulations for Visitors to Japan
Japan does not require any vaccines for entry. However, it’s recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations before you travel.
At the moment, no health declaration forms are needed to enter Japan.
Medical insurance for Japan
To avoid expensive bills, foreign visitors are advised to buy travel insurance with full healthcare coverage before traveling to Japan.
If you need medical care on your trip, you usually pay first and then send the receipt to your insurance company for a refund.
In some cases, the clinic may accept proof of your coverage, and directly bill your insurer. Carry a copy of your insurance policy while you are traveling.
