Visiting Japan

2025/11/10

Your Visa Information Guide

This page provides you with essential information regarding visas. Please allow ample time for preparation.

[IMPORTANT] Book an appointment before visiting the Embassy for application!

[IMPORTANT] The screening process for a visa takes a minimum of five business days!

Do You Need a Visa for Japan?

Whether you need a visa to enter Japan depends on your nationality, the duration of your stay, and your purpose of visit.

  • A visa is NOT required if you meet all the conditions below:
  • Your country/region is eligible for visa exemption;
  • Your duration of stay is within 90 days (Short-term Stay); and
  • You intend to visit Japan for non-remunerative activities such as tourism, business, visiting relatives, or transit. (Please ask our visa officer if you need clarification.)
  • Even if you are from a visa-exempt country/region, a visa is required in the following cases:
    • You intend to stay for more than 90 days.
    • You intend to engage in remunerative activities in Japan (e.g. employment, part-time work).
    • Your purpose is to study.
  • A visa is required unless you meet the conditions above, and you must get one from the embassy before your visit. Arrival visa is not available.

Types of Visa

The type of visa you need to apply for and the application procedures vary significantly depending on your intended duration of stay in Japan.

(A) For Short-term Stays (90 days or less)
If your stay in Japan is 90 days or less, and your country/region is not visa-exempt (i.e. a visa is required), please check below for the categories and required documents.
 
  • Major Short-term Visa
    • Tourist Visa: For purposes such as tourism, or recreation.
    • Short-term Business Visa: For purposes such as business meetings, contract signing, market research, after-sales service, or participation in international conferences.
                  [CAUTION] Additional documentation might be requested depending upon your application.
 
(B) For Long-term Stays (Exceeding 90 days) 

Application Method and Other Important Notes

  • Application Method
    • Applications must be submitted in person at the embassy’s consular counter.
                  [IMPORTANT] All applicants are requested to book an appointment at least 1 business day before visiting the embassy.
 
  • Processing Time
    • [IMPORTANT] The processing time from application to visa issuance is a minimum of five business days. It may take longer due to incomplete documentation, high application volume, or if additional investigation is required. Please apply with ample time.
  • Fees
  • Important Notes
    • A visa does not guarantee entry: Even if a visa is issued, the final permission to enter Japan is at the discretion of the immigration officer at Japanese airports or ports of entry.
    • False applications/declarations are unconditionally rejected: If there is any falsehood in your application, visa issuance may be refused, or future entry into Japan may be permanently prohibited.
    • Visa application fee is non-refundable.
    • Please note that information may be updated: Japan's visa policies and entry regulations are subject to change without prior notice. Always check the latest information on our website or at our consular counter.

☞ For inquiries: If you still have questions, please feel free to contact the embassy.
                            E-mail: jez.consul@lu.mofa.go.jp, Tel: +260-211-251555

☞ For more information: visit the following website or contact:

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