With the introduction of a digital eVISA system, Japan is facilitating easier travel for visitors from specific nations wishing to stay for a maximum of 90 days. This guide details eligibility criteria, application steps, and essential information for travelers prior to their flight.
Visiting Japan has become significantly simpler. Starting from May 23, 2025, Japan has officially rolled out its Japan eVisa system, enabling short-term travelers to obtain visas entirely online.
This initiative signifies a considerable change in how international tourists can enter the nation, especially as Japan gears up for significant global events such as the 2025 Osaka Expo. For short-term travel, tourists typically no longer need to visit Japanese embassies or consulates.
What is the Japan eVisa?
The Japan eVisa is an electronic visa valid for single entry lasting up to 90 days solely for tourism reasons. Rather than receiving a physical visa label in your passport, applicants who are approved will receive a “Visa Issuance Notice”, a digital confirmation that is required during airport check-in.
⚠️ Important: Travelers must present this visa notice directly on a connected device, as printed copies, PDF files, or screenshots will not be accepted at the boarding gates.
Who Can Apply Online?
- Australia
- Brazil
- Cambodia
- Canada
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- South Africa
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
👉 Travelers who are already exempt from short-term visas do not need to submit an application.
Special Regulations for Specific Nations
1. China
- Chinese citizens residing in China must seek assistance from licensed travel agencies.
- Visas issued will permit stays of 15 or 30 days.
2. Vietnam
- Vietnamese nationals are required to apply as part of a packaged tour through authorized travel agencies.
- The permitted stay is capped at 15 days.
3. Other Regions
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Macau
- Mongolia
- South Korea (excluding Jeju jurisdiction)
- United Arab Emirates
Note: The Japan eVisa is exclusively applicable for those arriving by air or through scheduled international ferries from Busan or Shanghai.
Eligibility Criteria
- Purpose: Exclusively for tourism.
- Passport Type: Must possess an ordinary passport.
- Application Method: Online through JAPAN eVISA or via authorized travel agencies (for specific countries).
- Display Requirement: Must exhibit the Visa Issuance Notice on a device connected to the internet at airport check-in.
Planning an Extended Stay? Conventional Visa Still Necessary
Significance of the eVISA Launch
The introduction of Japan’s eVISA is a crucial advancement toward modernising border policies and reinvigorating tourism following the pandemic. With prominent events like the Osaka Expo 2025 approaching and global travel experiencing a rebound, the system provides a more user-friendly, efficient, and secure avenue for visitors to explore the nation.
For tech-savvy explorers, this signifies fewer visits to consulates, quicker processing times, and a more seamless initiation to your adventure in Japan.
How to Apply for a Japan eVisa
1: Verify Your Eligibility
- Ensure you reside in one of the qualified countries (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.).
- Confirm that your travel is for tourism reasons and for a duration of up to 90 days.
- You must hold an ordinary passport and enter Japan by air or via international ferry (from Busan or Shanghai).
- Access the official Japan visa portal
- Choose your country or region from the provided dropdown menu.
3: Create an Account and Sign In
- Register as a new user with your email information.
- Use your credentials to log in and begin the visa application process.
4: Complete the eVISA Application Form
- Enter your personal information exactly as it appears on your passport.
- Upload a digital passport photograph and a scanned copy of the biodata page of your passport.
- Provide details about your travel itinerary and accommodation.
5: Submit Necessary Documents
- The required documents generally include:
- Passport (valid for the entirety of your stay)
- Photo (digital, passport format)
- Evidence of travel arrangements (hotel reservations, return flight itinerary)
- Additional documents may be needed based on your nationality.
6: Pay the Visa Fee
- Complete the payment online (the fee may vary depending on your nationality).
- Retain the confirmation receipt for your records.
7: Wait for Approval and Processing
- Processing generally takes a few business days.
- You might be required to attend an interview at the local Japanese embassy or consulate in rare scenarios.
8: Receive Your Visa Issuance Notice
- If your application is granted, you’ll receive a Visa Issuance Notice via your account.
- Note: You must show this notice in a digital format on your device at the airport — printed versions, PDFs, and screenshots are not accepted.
9: Travel to Japan
- Present your digital Visa Issuance Notice during check-in and upon arrival.
- Have a great trip — you can remain in Japan for a maximum of 90 days!
Japan to Introduce JESTA for Visa-Free Travelers
Alongside the eVISA initiative, Japan is preparing to unveil a different travel authorization system called JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
To be launched by the end of fiscal 2028, JESTA will require travelers from 71 visa-exempt nations to complete an online travel authorization before their arrival in Japan. Similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA, this initiative is intended to streamline entry processes while bolstering border security.
Concluding Thoughts
From delectable sushi to beautiful shrines, Japan caters to diverse traveler interests. With the implementation of the eVISA system, exploring this vibrant and multifaceted country is now more accessible than ever. Be sure to verify your eligibility and the application approach based on your country of residence, and prepare to turn your Japan trip into a reality.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
