Japan Visa And Entry Travel Requirements

Traveling to Japan for business is incredibly rewarding, but understanding the visa and entry requirements can be difficult. This article will provide the basic pointers for travelers entering the country, but it is still wise to check with your local Japanese consular office or Japanese embassy to determine what the exact requirements are. Your government may also maintain a website with information on entry requirements for foreign countries, easily revealed by a web search. The Japanese government maintains a site with basic information.

Do I Need A Japanese Visa?

The answer depends on two factors: your citizenship and the exact purpose of your travel. If you are from a country like the U.S., the U.K., France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, or Spain, then you will not need a visa in most circumstances. These countries have negotiated reciprocal visa exemption arrangements with Japan, allowing their citizens to enter Japan for 90 days or more without prior visa application. All citizens need do is land in Japan and process through immigration. A temporary visitor's visa is granted for 90 days after entry. In the case of some countries, this visa can be renewed for three months or even six months.

If You Are In Japan For Direct Remunerative Purposes

If you travel to Japan to make business contacts or other informal business arrangements, then you will be completely covered by the temporary visitor's visa. However, if you are expecting substantial profit payments while in the country, you will need to apply for a visa beforehand. This is vital if you are accepting any kind of payment.

How To Apply For A Visa

Those traveling to Japan for definite moneymaking purposes will always need a visa, even if they are citizens of a country that has a visa exemption agreement with Japan. Obtaining this visa is as simple as applying at a Japanese Embassy or consulate. Consulates are located in many major cities, making them easy to access. When approaching the consulate, applicants must have:

• A valid passport
• Two passport photos taken less than six months before the date of application
• Two official visa application forms (obtain them from the embassy or consulate)
• Documents that legitimate the visit and clearly demonstrate its purpose

If you expect to obtain a visa beforehand, it is very wise to contact the embassy or consulate before making the trip to apply. The exact nature of documentation that is required may vary, and there may be additional restrictions applicable only within your certain country.