This move marks a significant shift in how foreign travellers can enter the country, especially as Japan prepares for major international events, such as the 2025 Osaka Expo. Tourists no longer need to visit Japanese embassies or consulates for short-term travel, at least not in most cases.
What is the Japan eVisa?
The Japan eVisa is a single-entry electronic visa for short-term stays up to 90 days, strictly for tourism purposes. Instead of receiving a physical visa sticker in your passport, successful applicants receive a “Visa Issuance Notice”, a digital confirmation required at airport check-in.
Important: Travellers must show this visa notice directly on a connected device. Printed copies, PDFs, or screenshots will not be accepted at departure gates.
Who Can Apply Online?
Travellers residing in the following countries or regions are now eligible to apply online via the JAPAN eVISA official website:
- Australia
- Brazil
- Cambodia
- Canada
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- South Africa
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
👉 If you are already exempt from short-term visas, you do not need to apply.
Special Rules for Certain Countries
Some travellers must follow country-specific procedures based on their residence or nationality:
1. China
- Chinese nationals living in China must apply through designated travel agencies.
- Visas issued will allow 15 or 30 days of stay.
2. Vietnam
- Vietnamese nationals must apply as part of a packaged tour via approved travel agencies.
- The stay is limited to 15 days.
3. Other Countries
Residents in the following regions can apply online unless they are visa-exempt, but may still be required to go through Japanese-accredited agencies:
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Macau
- Mongolia
- South Korea (excluding Jeju jurisdiction)
- United Arab Emirates
Note: The Japan eVisa is valid only for those arriving by air or via scheduled international ferries from Busan or Shanghai.
Eligibility Requirements
- Purpose: Tourism only.
- Passport Type: Must hold an ordinary passport.
- Application Channel: Online via JAPAN eVISA or through authorised travel agencies (for some countries).
- Display Requirement: Must show the Visa Issuance Notice on a live internet-connected device at airport check-in.
Planning a Longer Stay? Traditional Visa Still Required
If you’re travelling to Japan for any reason other than tourism—including work, study, family reunification, or long-term residence- you’ll still need to apply through the traditional visa process via Japanese embassies or consulates. These visas are still issued as physical stickers placed in your passport.
Why the eVISA Launch Matters
Japan’s eVISA launch is a significant step toward modernising border procedures and reviving inbound tourism post-pandemic. With events like the Osaka Expo 2025 on the horizon and global travel rebounding, the system offers a more convenient, efficient, and secure way for visitors to experience the country.
For tech-savvy travellers, this means fewer consulate visits, faster processing, and a smoother start to your Japanese adventure.
How to Apply for a Japan eVisa
Eligible travellers can apply online via the official Japan eVisa portal: 🔗 Apply Here
1: Check Your Eligibility
- Confirm that you reside in one of the eligible countries (e.g. USA, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.).
- Ensure your visit is for tourism purposes and for a short stay of up to 90 days.
- You must hold an ordinary passport and enter Japan by air or international passenger ferry (from Busan or Shanghai).
2: Visit the Official Japan eVISA Website
- Go to the official Japan visa portal
- Select your country or region of residence from the dropdown list.
3: Create an Account and Log In
- Register a new user account using your email address.
- Log in with your credentials to start the visa application.
4: Complete the eVISA Application Form
- Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport.
- Upload a digital passport photo and scanned passport biodata page.
- Provide your travel itinerary and accommodation details.
5: Submit Required Documents
- Documents typically include:
- Passport (valid for the duration of your stay)
- Photo (passport size, digital)
- Proof of travel plans (hotel booking, return flight)
- Additional documents may be requested depending on your nationality.
6: Pay the Visa Fee
- Make the payment online (amount may vary depending on nationality).
- Save the confirmation receipt for your records.
7: Wait for Processing and Approval
- Processing time usually takes a few working days.
- You may be asked to visit the local Japanese embassy or consulate for an interview (in rare cases).
8: Receive Your Visa Issuance Notice
- If approved, you’ll get a Visa Issuance Notice via your account.
- Important: You must display this notice digitally on your device at the airport — printed copies, PDFs, and screenshots are not accepted.
9: Travel to Japan
- Show your digital Visa Issuance Notice at check-in and upon arrival.
- Enjoy your trip — you can stay in Japan for up to 90 days!
Japan to Launch JESTA for Visa-Free Travellers
In addition to the newly launched eVISA system, Japan is also preparing to introduce a separate travel authorization platform known as JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
Set to roll out by the end of fiscal 2028, JESTA will require travellers from 71 visa-exempt countries to complete an online travel authorization before entering Japan. Similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA, this system aims to streamline entry procedures while enhancing border security.
From sushi to shrines, Japan offers something for every kind of traveller. With the new eVISA system now live, exploring this rich and diverse country has never been easier. Be sure to check your eligibility and application method based on your country of residence, and get ready to make your Japan trip a reality.
