Japan Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

If you're planning a trip to Japan, there are several key documents you must fill out and carry ready for inspection on arrival.

In this post, you’ll find all the details you need on Japanese arrival declarations and customs regulations, as well as local rules on passport and visa requirements for American citizens.

Checklist for U.S. Nationals Traveling to Japan

The following documents are mandatory for entry to Japan:

You may also be asked to show:

Make sure to have all the required documentation ready to present to officials when you arrive at Japanese border control.

Passport rules for visitors to Japan

Your passport must be valid for the whole of your stay in Japan. Most airlines require you to have at least 6 months of passport validity remaining when you fly to and from Japan. Make sure to check your airline’s requirements when booking your ticket.

Even if you’re traveling under the visa exemption for U.S. citizens, your passport will be stamped on entry and exit. Check that you have at least one blank page available for immigration stamps.

Do American citizens need a visa for Japan?

If you hold a valid U.S. passport, you can visit Japan for up to 90 days visa-free. The visa exemption allows you to visit for the following purposes:

If you’re traveling to do paid work or to study, you must apply for a visa in advance. There are 18 Japanese embassies and consulate offices located across the United States. Make your application at your closest consular office before you travel.

Digital nomads with a U.S. passport can work remotely in Japan without a visa during short stays. If you spend fewer than 183 days in the country, you’re not considered a tax resident, meaning you can combine remote work with your 90-day visa exemption.

Even if you’re traveling under the Visa Exemption Program, you must complete some immigration and customs forms. You’ll be asked to show these as part of Japan’s entry procedure for foreign visitors.

Immigration Declaration form for Japan

American travelers need a Japanese arrival card — a type of immigration form that asks for some personal and trip details. Fill out your name, reason for travel, and accommodation details, and submit the form at the border control counter.

Japanese Customs Declaration form for U.S. citizens

As part of Japan’s customs rules for arriving travelers, you must fill out a declaration form for the goods you’re bringing into the country.

Some items, like alcohol and tobacco, are restricted and incur duty tax in large quantities. You must also declare any currency exceeding 1 million yen, equivalent to around USD 6,700.

To get your e-travel QR code for Japan, submit your Customs Declaration online before you travel.

Requirements when traveling with children

If you’re traveling as a family, it’s important to note that children must comply with Japan’s entry rules. Babies and minors must hold a valid U.S. passport, and a visa for stays over 90 days.

Document requirements for children are the same as for adult travelers. You can complete an arrival card and Customs Declaration on their behalf.

When you arrive in Japan, you’ll pass through the following steps before being granted entry to the country:

Remember to keep your travel documents close to hand when passing through the arrival process. It’s a good idea to print copies of any digital documents you need to show officials in case you have difficulties connecting to local Wi-Fi networks when you arrive.

Rules for departing Japan

The departure protocol is similar to the arrival process for Japan. Your passport will be inspected to make sure that you have not overstayed the permitted time period of your visa or visa-free entry.

Duty-free limits also apply to items leaving the country. However, you only need to complete another Customs Declaration form for your departure if you’re carrying any items over duty-free allowances.

Japan’s departure tax is usually covered by your airline ticket, but it’s important to check this before you travel to avoid surprises at the airport.