7 Easy Steps to Obtain a Tourist Visa for Japan

Tourist Visa for Japan

Japan is a small island country in East Asia, which is famous for its traditions and technologies. Ranging from the delicate taste of the cherry blossom season in spring to the flashy lights of Tokyo at night, Japan is a place where tradition and modernity meet. It boasts of several historical places, including Kyoto’s temples and Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, which are among the world’s heritage sites under UNESCO. Featuring beautiful scenes and mouth-watering dishes, coupled with friendly people, it is not surprising that people from all corners of the world consider it as a travel destination to visit the Land of the Rising Sun.

Before jumping into your journey, there are certain practicalities of travelling that need to be addressed and one of them is applying for a tourist visa to Japan. It is important to know the Japan tourist visa requirements so that one can meet the necessary legal requirements as well as having the right documents. If you are dreaming about visiting the most famous attractions starting from the Mount Fuji or if your goal is to take a hot onsen bath, or even feel the atmosphere of sumo wrestling match, having the right visa will create the basis for your wonderful trip.

It may be complicated to apply for a Japan tourist visa, but it can be very easy if one knows what to do. So, in this blog post, we will list seven simple actions that will allow you to prepare your application quickly and efficiently. This article will take you through the steps of checking your eligibility, the documents you need to prepare, and how to apply for a Japan visa to make your dream of visiting Japan come true. Prepare yourself for a detailed description of this interesting process and start dreaming of your vacation in one of the most interesting countries.

Here is the 7 Easy Steps to Obtain a Tourist Visa for Japan

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

The first thing that a person needs to decide is whether they need a Japan tourist visa. The Japanese government allows citizens of several countries to visit Japan for a short period without obtaining a visa (generally for ninety days). Visa free countries include United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and most of the countries in the European Union. But if you are from any of these countries or if your visit will not be for more than the exemption period, then you do not need a visa, otherwise, you will have to apply for one. It is always wise to check the current information on the website of the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence to determine your chances.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Gather Required Documents

Once you are sure that you will require a tourist visa, then it’s time for you to assemble the documents that are required. The Japan tourist visa requirements typically include:

  • Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended period of stay in Japan and should have at least one blank page for the visa.
  • Visa Application Form: This form can be downloaded from the website of the Japanese embassy or consulate. Complete it and provide truthful information.
  • Passport-sized Photographs: You will normally be required to produce two recent color photographs measuring 4.5 cm x 4.5 cm and which must meet the prescribed requirements (for instance, on white background).
  • Proof of Travel Itinerary: Include your flight bookings (it is advisable to purchase a flexible flight ticket) and any domestic travel within Japan.
  • Evidence of Accommodation: For instance, you may be asked to present a copy of the hotel booking or an invitation letter from your host in case you will be living with a friend or relative during your stay.
  • Financial Proof: Prove that you have enough money to live on while you are in the country. This may comprise bank statements for the last three months or proof of employment.
  • Travel Insurance: Some embassies may insist that you provide details of medical insurance that will cover your stay in Japan. Ensure all your documents are well arranged to reduce on time that you may take in preparing your application.

Step 3: Please fill out the Visa Application Form

The next step is to make a proper completion of the visa application form, as it is required. The form can be obtained on the Internet or at the Japanese embassy or consulate. Give accurate information concerning your identity, your itinerary, and your financial situation. Any of them may cause delay or result in possible refusal of your visa application. One should go through the application several times before submitting it to avoid any mishap that may result from wrong information.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Submit Your Application

Having collected all the necessary documents and filled in the application form, it is high time to submit an application. Depending on your location, you can either:

  • Visit the Japanese Embassy or Consulate: Apply in person to submit the application. Expect that there might be a line and it would be best to inquire first the schedules of the personnel.
  • Use a Designated Travel Agency: In some countries, you may submit your application through accredited agents who deal with visa processing companies. This option may be more suitable if you do not wish to deal directly with the embassy or the consulate.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

In the process of applying for the visa, you will be asked to pay for the visa fee after you have applied. The fee depends on your nationality and also the type of visa that you want to be issued with. The fee is usually 3,000 yen which is equivalent to $30 for single entry visa. The type of payment may vary; while some embassies accept cash, others accept bank transfers or even credit cards. Save the receipt as you may need it in the future, or to collect your visa.

 Step 6: Wait for Processing

Pay the visa fee and wait for the processing of your application to be done after you have applied online. The response time for a tourist visa to Japan takes approximately 5-10 business days. However, during the high traffic periods such as the festive season or other periods of high traffic, the processing period may take longer. It is always recommended that you apply for your visa way before you intend to travel to the country of your destination.

It is advisable to revisit your travel plans and confirm all your bookings for accommodation and other means of transport within Japan so as to be ready as soon as you arrive.

 Step 7: Collect Your Visa

After the application has been reviewed, you will be informed of your visa situation. Once your application is granted you can pick up your visa at the embassy or consulate where you filed the application from. On receiving your visa ensure that you read it keenly to ensure that all the details are correct including your name, type of visa, and the validity period. Make sure there are no mistakes because they can be dangerous for your travelling.

If your visa is refused you are given a reason for the refusal at the embassy or consulate that you applied to. In this case, you may consider providing an explanation to the issues mentioned and if possible, resubmit the application.

Conclusion

Applying for a tourist visa in Japan is a crucial process, which leads to an incredible trip to this wonderful country. If you would follow the mentioned steps and ensure that you meet all the Japan tourist visa requirements, then the process of applying for this visa will be very easy. Ensure that you compile all the required documents, review your application thoroughly and submit all the required documents at the appropriate time to avoid any inconveniences.

Once you have your visa in place you can look forward to the many things that you have in store for you in Japan. From strolling along the neon-lit streets of the Japanese capital to meditating in the historical temples of Kyoto, every journey is going to be enlightening and enjoyable. Therefore, get ready to enjoy the distinctive culture of Japan, taste its delicious food and make unforgettable impressions in the country of the rising sun.

Read More:

Also CheckOut:

Japan Tour Packages | Japan Holiday Packages

Share this article:
Get Your Special Package