Short-stay tourism in Japan for passports without visa exemption.
Process
Japan tourist visa (single/multiple) — step by step
Japan issues short-stay tourist visas (15/30/90 days) as single or multiple entry. Passports with visa exemption arrangements do not need a visa; others apply through an embassy/consulate, usually via an accredited travel agency.
Last updated: 2026-08-31
Confirm if you need a visa
Japan grants visa-free short stays to many passports (e.g. US, UK, AU, EU). If your passport is not on the exemption list, you need a tourist visa. Identify which embassy/consulate or accredited travel agency handles your jurisdiction.
Prepare documents
Valid passport, completed application form, one biometric photo (45×35 mm), itinerary with dates, round-trip flight booking, hotel reservations, bank statements, and an explanation letter. Japanese-issued Certificate of Eligibility is NOT required for a plain tourist visa.
Submit through an accredited agency
Most Japanese embassies/consulates (including for China) do NOT accept direct applications from individuals — you apply through an accredited travel agency designated by the embassy. The agency checks your documents and submits on your behalf.
Embassy reviews the application
The embassy/consulate examines the file. You are usually NOT called for an interview and no fingerprints are taken for short-stay tourist visas (unlike Schengen/UK). The agency stays your point of contact.
Wait for the decision
Standard processing is about 5 working days from the day the embassy receives a complete file; it can take longer during peak seasons or if documents need clarification. Do not buy non-refundable flights before the visa is granted.
Collect your passport
Collect from the agency. Check the sticker immediately: validity period, single vs. multiple entry, and permitted days of stay. A single-entry visa becomes invalid once you leave Japan.
Where you are most likely to get stuck
- !Applying directly as an individual when the embassy requires an accredited agency — the file will not be accepted.
- !Buying non-refundable flights before the visa is issued — the embassy explicitly warns against this.
- !Confusing a single-entry visa with multiple-entry — a second trip needs another visa unless the sticker says "MULT".
- !Adding a Certificate of Eligibility to a tourist visa application when none is required can cause confusion/delay.
General information, not legal advice; rules change — verify with official sources.
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