Japan’s entry requirements apply to all travelers arriving in the country. To pass through immigration and customs controls successfully, you must comply with all entry procedures and regulations.
This page has detailed information on the requirements for visiting Japan, including passport rules, visa policies, and other essential documentation for Japanese and international travelers.
What Do You Need 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’re eligible for a visa on arrival, or for visa-free stays in Japan, you may also be asked to show proof of onward travel, such as a return flight booking.
Japanese Passport Rules
- All travelers arriving in Japan need a valid passport. It must be valid for at least the duration of your stay
- You’re recommended to make sure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity beyond your travel dates
- If you’re exempt from visa requirements for short stays, you must have at least 1 blank page available in your passport for entry and exit stamps
Entering Japan: Customs and Disembarkation Cards
To pass through border controls on arrival in Japan, you must present officials with 2 completed documents — a Customs Declaration form, and a Disembarkation Card.
It’s essential that you fill out these documents accurately and with care to meet the requirements for visiting Japan.
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.
To get your form approved in advance, fill out your personal details and travel itinerary in the online form. You’ll also be asked to give information on the items you’re carrying to comply with 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
The Disembarkation Card is required by all foreign nationals arriving in Japan. You need to fill out the arrival card, whatever your reason for travel. The only exemption is for foreign citizens who 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 issue a paper card to all passengers who require one.
Visa Requirements for Entry to Japan
Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may need a visa to enter Japan.
Citizens of around 70 countries can enter Japan visa-free. This includes nationals of the United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and most European countries.
If you’re eligible for a visa exemption, your passport will be stamped on arrival to mark your entry date. 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 be required to fill out an application form and supply some supporting documentation.
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, such as 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 do paid work for a Japanese company while visiting on a tourist visa, or with a visa exemption. To take up work in Japan, you must get the right type of work permit in advance.
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.
You must make a visa application through a Japanese diplomatic mission if you want to live, work, or study while in Japan. Contact your closest Japanese embassy or consulate to find out the specific requirements for your situation.
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 hold a residency permit for Japan, you must get a re-entry permit if you plan to leave and later return to the country. Special re-entry permits are available for residents who plan to return to Japan within 1 year of departure.
You must get your re-entry permit before leaving Japan, as you will 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
There are no vaccination requirements for travelers entering Japan. You’re recommended to get up-to-date on routine vaccines before traveling.
Currently, there are no mandatory health declaration forms required for entry into Japan.
Medical insurance for Japan
To avoid expensive bills, foreign visitors are advised to take out a travel insurance policy with comprehensive healthcare coverage before traveling to Japan.
If you need medical attention while traveling, you’ll have to pay upfront for your treatment. You can then submit your receipt to your insurance company for reimbursement.
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.
