Japan Visas: Visa-Free Countries List (2023)

iVisa | Updated on Jun 20, 2023

Citizens of 68 countries can travel to Japan without needing a visa. All you need is your valid passport and two blank pages for stamping. Check out the full visa-free countries list below. If you do not find your country on the visa exemption list, then you will need a visa to enter Japan. Through Japan’s e-Visa program, you can skip going to the embassy and apply online instead! You can also obtain a temporary visa for business purposes. Simply click the button below and our team will help you complete your application.

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Japan Visas: Visa-Free Countries List (1)

Japan’s e-Visa program is a convenient alternative to applying at an embassy. But you might feel a bit lost about where to begin and how to make sure you have all of the right documentation. That’s why we’ve created a simple application process that guides you the whole way. Our expert team will review your Japan e-Visa application to ensure you’ve made no mistakes.

Countries that are Visa Exempt from Requiring a Japanese Visa

Visa exempt means that if you are a citizen of one of the following countries, you can temporarily go to Japan visa-free for vacation or business purposes up to 90 days.

CountryCountryCountry
AndorraArgentinaAustralia
Austria*BahamasBarbados**
Belgium*Brunei (Only 15 days)Bulgaria*
CanadaChileCosta Rica
Croatia*Cyprus*Czech Republic*
Denmark*Dominican RepublicEl Salvador
Estonia*Finland*France*
Germany*GuatemalaGreece*
HondurasHong Kong^^Hungary*
IcelandIndonesia (Only 15 days)Ireland*
IsraelItaly*Latvia*
Lesotho**Liechtenstein*Lithuania*
Luxembourg*Macao^^^Malaysia***
Malta*MauritiusMexico*
MonacoNew ZealandNetherlands*
North MacedoniaNorwayPoland*
Portugal*Romania*San Marino
SerbiaSingaporeSlovakia*
Slovenia*South KoreaSpain*
SurinameSweden*Switzerland*
Taiwan^Thailand^ (Only 15 days)Tunisia
Turkey**United Arab Emirates (Only 30 days)--
United Kingdom*United StatesUruguay

Need an extension on your stay? These countries can apply for an extension with the Ministry of Justice. UK citizens: only British citizens & British Nationals (Overseas) citizens are visa-exempt.You will need either an ePassport or a Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) to get visa-free entry.Only ePassport holders will receive visa-exempt travel to Japan.^Taiwan passports that display a personal ID number will be allowed to enter visa-free.^^You’ll need an SAR passport from China or a BNO passport to be visa-exempt.^^^You’ll need an SAR passport from China to be visa-exempt.

What to Pay Attention to if You are Visa-Free | Japan Visas

Always be sure to carry your passport with you at all times so you do not lose it. You can also take a picture of your passport or use a scanner app to upload a digital copy of your passport. If you do this, do not lose your phone!

Do you need more time in Japan? You may be able to apply for an extension with the Ministry of Justice.

When in doubt, get a visa. Rules and regulations change with the events of the world.

North Korean citizens are not permitted to enter or to have connecting flights to or from Japan.

The e-Visa for Japan

What’s great is that wherever you are in the world, you will be able to apply for an e-Visa online with your smartphone, computer, or tablet.

The Japanese e-Visa program will be released in April 2020. Considerations of which countries will be accepted first are not announced at this time.

How do I get the e-Visa for Japan?

What’s great is that wherever you are in the world, you can apply for an e-Visa online with your smartphone, computer, or tablet. At iVisa.com, we have developed a user-friendly application process that includes careful review by our team of immigration experts. We offer 24/7 customer support should you have any questions along the way.

FAQs

Which countries will be visa-free for Japan? ›

Countries that are Visa Exempt from Requiring a Japanese Visa
CountryCountryCountry
MonacoNew ZealandNetherlands*
North MacedoniaNorwayPoland*
Portugal*Romania*San Marino
SerbiaSingaporeSlovakia*
19 more rows
Jun 20, 2023

Which 4 countries need visa to Japan? ›

Citizens of the following countries will need a Japan tourist visa in order to enter Japan:
  • China.
  • Russia.
  • Philippines.
  • Vietnam.
  • CIS countries and Georgia.

Is Japan visa-free travel for US citizens? ›

You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business "visa free" stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan. You cannot work on a 90-day "visa free" entry.

Why does Japan have so many visa-free countries? ›

And because Japanese passports are generally trusted, holders can often complete immigration procedures more smoothly than people from elsewhere. Countries often grant visa exemptions because cutting red tape can bring in more tourists.

Can I go to Japan with a US green card? ›

Yes, you can travel abroad as a green card holder — that's one of the many benefits of being a permanent resident. However, your trip must be temporary and you cannot remain outside the United States for more than 1 year.

Can Americans travel to Japan? ›

Effective as of midnight April 29, 2023 (Japan time), all travelers arriving in Japan will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test certificate.

Can I visit Mexico with Japan visa? ›

Foreigners who wish to visit Mexico as tourists, transit, business, technical activities, journalism or studies, for a period not exceeding 180 days, and who will not carry out any paid activities in Mexican territory, DO NOT require a visa if they meet one of the following criteria: Japanese passport holders.

Do Mexicans need visa for Japan? ›

Residents of 68 countries can enter Japan for up to 90 days for tourism purposes, with a free visa upon arrival. These countries include the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and most countries in Europe.

How many visa free countries for US? ›

As of June 2023, the US citizens can travel visa free to 186 countries and territories.

How much is a visa to Japan from US? ›

Fees
Type of Visa (For applications on and after April 1st, 2023)Fees
Single Entry Visa$22
Double and Multiple Entry Visa$44
Transit Visa (Including Double-Entry Transit)$5
Indian Passport HolderSingle, Double, or Multiple Entry Visa$6
2 more rows
7 days ago

How long can you stay in Japan with a US visa? ›

If you will be staying longer than 90 days with an appropriate visa, you must register your address with your residence's municipal office and obtain a Resident Card (“Zairyu Card”) from regional immigration offices.

How much is Japan visa fee travel? ›

How Much is the Japan Tourist Visa Fee? The fees for Japan visas are as follows: For a single-entry visa: 3,000 Yen. For a double-entry or multiple-entry visa: 6,000 Yen.

What countries do not accept US passport? ›

The US passport is recognized by all countries in the world, and while the majority of nations accept US passports for entry, there are a few exceptions and limitations. Some countries that have restrictions on US passport holders are North Korea, Iran, Syria, Yemen, and Libya.

Which countries has most visa-free? ›

In 2023, the most powerful passport in the world in terms of travel freedom is the Japanese passport, according to the HPI. A passport issued by Japan allows the holder to enter 193 different countries and territories without having to get a visa in advance. Singapore and South Korea are tied for 2nd place.

Is it difficult to get a Japan visa? ›

The process of obtaining a visa in Japan is still fairly easy. For this reason, some noncitizens need a visa to visit Japan. The visa requirements for Japan vary from person to person depending on a variety of factors, including the nationality of the traveler, intended length of stay, and purpose of the trip.

How long does Japan visa approval take? ›

A1: The standard processing period, when it does not have any problem on contents of the application, takes five working days from the next day after the date of the acceptance of application. Meanwhile, it may take longer than usual if a large number of visa applications converge at a short-time period.

How much bank balance is required for Japan tourist visa? ›

5. Do I need to present show money for a Japan visa? According to experienced travelers, the show money for a Japan visa should be enough for your daily expenses within the duration of the trip. For instance, if you stay in Japan for 15 days, you must have at least ₱100,000 in your bank account.

Do US citizens need a visa for Korea? ›

Quick Facts. TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

What is the best month to go to Japan? ›

Japan is a year-round destination with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is the best time (also the peak time) to visit most of Japan for pleasant weather and cherry blossom, typically in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Can you enter Japan without vaccine? ›

Vaccination certificates and pre-departure tests are no longer required to enter Japan. Travelers and returnees with COVID-19 symptoms will no longer be subjected to on-arrival testing.

Do you need to be triple vaccinated to travel to Japan? ›

AS OF THE 29th OF APRIL 2023, PROOF OF VACCINATION AND NEGATIVE PCR TEST RESULTS ARE NO LONGER REQUIRED FOR ENTRY INTO JAPAN.

How many countries you can visit with Japan visa? ›

What countries provide visa on arrival for Japan passport holders? Japan nationals are eligible for a visa on arrival in the following 37 countries. In most cases, a visa can be obtained at the airport or border crossing point upon arrival. Fees, validity, and allowed duration of stay may vary.

Do Filipinos need Japan visa? ›

The Japan eVisa is a travel requirement for Filipino passport holders. Filipino citizens looking to travel to Japan should apply online for a Japan eVisa before traveling to the country. The Japan eVisa will permit Filipino citizens single entry to the country for tourism purposes.

Do Mexicans need visa for USA? ›

Mexican nationals are required to present a valid passport and visa or diplomat require a visa to enter the United States. BCC when traveling to the United States by land. For travel by sea, Mexican nationals will need to present a valid passport and visa or a valid passport and BCC.

What countries can Mexicans travel to without a visa? ›

As of June 2023, Mexican passport holders can travel visa free to 122 countries and territories:
  • Albania.
  • Andorra.
  • Anguilla.
  • Antigua and Barbuda.
  • Argentina.
  • Aruba.
  • Austria.
  • Bahamas.

Do Spanish need visa to enter Japan? ›

Japanese visa for Spanish citizens

A visa is NOT required for Spanish passport holders visiting Japan for a short-term stay: 90 days.

Can I go to Japan as a Mexican citizen? ›

Yes, you can travel to Japan with a Mexican passport! All you need is a valid visa or an entry permit that allows for stay in the country. Depending on the purpose of your visit and length of stay, there are several types of visas available.

How strong is U.S. passport? ›

The United States of America passport ranking is due to the degree of global entry it guarantees to American passport holders, who may travel visa-free to 186 countries, but who otherwise need a visa to access 23 countries globally.

How strong is the U.S. passport? ›

Passport of United States of America. Rank = 4. Passport Index 2023.

What US visa is free? ›

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries* to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.

What is the easiest visa to get for Japan? ›

A student visa is one of the easiest to get, and our GaijinPot Student Placement Program will help you through the entire process. If you are planning to study in Japan for more than three months you'll need to get a student visa.

Which visa is best for Japan? ›

The regular Japan Work Visa, which is issued for a number of professions such as a professor or artist. Japan Highly Skilled Professional Visa, which is issued through a point-based system and offers a longer period of stay and more benefits than a regular Work Visa.

Who can enter Japan right now? ›

Visa Free Travel for U.S. Citizen Tourists

Effective as of midnight April 29, 2023 (Japan time), all travelers arriving in Japan will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test certificate.

What is the longest visa you can get in Japan? ›

Generally, tourist visas will stay valid for up to 90 days from the day you land in Japan. There are other visas that will be good beyond 90 days up to five years. Make sure your visit to Japan is planned before the expiry date so that you can use your visa.

How many times can you visit Japan in a year? ›

A17: There is no limit to the number of times you can enter Japan. However,, if you intend to stay in Japan for more than half of year (180 days) as “Temporary Visitor”, you might not be allowed to enter Japan since it may not be regarded as temporary visit.

How much bank balance is required for US tourist visa? ›

Although there isn't a predetermined minimum balance needed, an F-1 visa requires a minimum balance of 10,000 USD.

How much does a trip to Japan cost in US dollars? ›

You can expect to pay about $320 per day for an all-inclusive trip to Japan, so the average price for an 14-day trip would be $4500 with flights included.

How much income is required for Japan visa? ›

The actual decision will depend on the regional immigration office in charge of screening, but it is advisable to aim for an annual income of "4 million yen + a number of family members x 700,000 yen" for the applicant alone.

Can you get a Japan visa at the airport? ›

Travelers may obtain a transit visa on arrival, which is called the Japan Shore Pass in Japan.

Where can't Americans travel? ›

Learn about your destination
AdvisoryLevelDate Updated
Haiti Travel AdvisoryLevel 4: Do Not TravelMay 17, 2023
Honduras Travel AdvisoryLevel 3: Reconsider TravelMarch 1, 2023
India Travel AdvisoryLevel 2: Exercise Increased CautionOctober 5, 2022
Indonesia Travel AdvisoryLevel 2: Exercise Increased CautionMay 2, 2023
144 more rows

Why is the U.S. passport blue? ›

The United States' passport, however, only became navy blue in 1976 — to match the shade found on the American Flag.

Is there a country with no passport? ›

FAQs About Travel Without a Passport

Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands are two Caribbean countries that do not require a passport for American citizens when traveling by air or sea. Essentially, these countries are regarded as domestic travel within the United States.

Where can American stay the longest without a visa? ›

Africa
  • African countries with 90-day visa-less allowances. ...
  • Asian countries with 3-month visa-less allowances. ...
  • Asian countries with 90-day visa-less allowances. ...
  • Canada – 180 days. ...
  • The Marshall Islands – No visa required. ...
  • Fiji – 4 months. ...
  • New Zealand – 3 months. ...
  • Solomon Islands – 3 months.
Apr 26, 2023

What is the easiest country for Americans to visit? ›

Panama. Panama is one of the easiest countries for Americans to visit. Westerners can obtain a 180-day tourist visa upon arrival.

What are the 10 most powerful passports? ›

The Most Powerful Passports In The World
  • Japan & Singapore (193 destinations)
  • South Korea (192 destinations)
  • Germany & Spain (191 destinations)
  • Finland, Italy & Luxembourg (190 destinations)
  • Austria, Denmark, Netherlands & Sweden (189 destinations)
  • France, Ireland, Portugal & the United Kingdom (188 destinations)
May 12, 2023

Is Japan visa-free for US citizens? ›

You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business "visa free" stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan. You cannot work on a 90-day "visa free" entry.

Why would a Japanese visa be denied? ›

Errors in Documents Submitted: The most common reason for Japan student visa rejection is due to spelling or numerical mistakes in the supporting documents. Any missing documents from the list provided by the Japanese embassy will result in the cancellation of the visa.

Can I enter Mexico with Japan visa? ›

Foreigners who wish to visit Mexico as tourists, transit, business, technical activities, journalism or studies, for a period not exceeding 180 days, and who will not carry out any paid activities in Mexican territory, DO NOT require a visa if they meet one of the following criteria: Japanese passport holders.

Is Korea visa-free to Japan? ›

Overview. The government of South Korea will expand the number of countries and regions permitted to enter the country without obtaining an entry visa on 1 November 2022. These new countries and regions will include Japan, Kiribati, Micronesia, Macao, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Taiwan and Tango.

Why was Japan closed to foreigners? ›

It is conventionally regarded that the shogunate imposed and enforced the sakoku policy in order to remove the colonial and religious influence of primarily Spain and Portugal, which were perceived as posing a threat to the stability of the shogunate and to peace in the archipelago.

Is Japan issuing tourist visa? ›

A Japan Tourist Visa is issued for a maximum duration of 90 days, usually for a single entry.

What is Japan travel restrictions? ›

Vaccination certificates and pre-departure tests are no longer required to enter Japan. Travelers and returnees with COVID-19 symptoms will no longer be subjected to on-arrival testing. Travelers with a positive COVID-19 test result will not be treated at designated facilities.

Which countries can travel to USA without visa? ›

There are currently 40 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program:
  • Andorra (1991)
  • Australia (1996)
  • Austria (1991)
  • Belgium (1991)
  • Brunei (1993)
  • Chile (2014)
  • Croatia (2021)
  • Czech Republic (2008)

Is Thailand visa-free to Japan? ›

Japan visa-free requirements for specific countries

Malaysia, Thailand, and Serbia: Visa-free travel is only possible for holders of e-Passports in compliance with ICAO standards. Others are advised to obtain a visa in advance.

Do Americans need a visa for Korea? ›

Quick Facts. TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

Is USA visa-free for Koreans? ›

ESTA is a visa waiver that enables citizens of Visa Waiver countries, such as South Korea, to enter the United States without a visa.

Can I travel to Japan as a Mexican? ›

Japanese visa for Mexican citizens

A visa is NOT required for Mexican passport holders visiting Japan for a short-term stay: 180 days.

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