Japan Visa & Entry Requirements Explained

Last reviewed: October 22, 2026 · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.

Important: Entry rules depend on your nationality and can change. The information below is a general overview — always confirm with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) or your nearest Japanese embassy before you book.

Do I need a visa?

Japan has visa exemption arrangements with many countries and regions for short-term stays (tourism, visiting friends, business meetings). Citizens of the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, most EU countries and a number of others can typically enter without a visa for a short stay — most commonly up to 90 days, though some nationalities have different limits.

If your country is not on MOFA's exemption list, you'll need to apply for a tourist visa in advance through a Japanese embassy or consulate (some nationalities can use Japan's online eVISA system). Check the official list for your passport.

Passport validity

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. Airlines may apply their own rules, so check with your carrier as well. Make sure there is a blank page for the landing permission sticker.

Visit Japan Web

Visit Japan Web is the government's online service for immigration and customs declarations. You register your passport and flight details before departure and receive QR codes to show at the airport. It's optional but generally speeds things up; paper forms are still available.

What happens at immigration

• Foreign visitors are fingerprinted and photographed on arrival.
• Officers may ask about your purpose of visit, length of stay and accommodation. Have your hotel address and onward/return ticket handy.
• Your passport is stamped or receives a landing permission sticker showing your permitted status and period of stay.

Customs and prohibited items

Japan has strict rules on narcotics, firearms and some medicines. Certain over-the-counter drugs elsewhere — including some containing pseudoephedrine or codeine above set amounts, and stimulant-based ADHD medication — are restricted or prohibited. If you carry prescription medicines, check the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare guidance; larger quantities may require an advance import certificate (Yakkan Shoumei). Meat products and many plant products are restricted by animal and plant quarantine rules.

Future changes: JESTA

The Japanese government has announced plans for an electronic travel authorization system, often referred to as JESTA, for visa-exempt visitors. As of our last review it had not launched. Watch official announcements before you travel.

Tax-free shopping

Short-term visitors can buy many goods tax-free at participating shops by showing their passport. The government has announced a change to a refund-style system (where tax is paid at purchase and refunded on departure); check JNTO's tax-free page for the current procedure.

Departure tax

Japan charges an International Tourist Tax on departures, which is normally included in your airline or ferry ticket price. Amounts can be revised, so check the National Tax Agency page if you want the current figure.