Japan entry requirements

By the Viamo editorial team · Editor Terje Moy · Last updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Japan is one of the world's great travel destinations, and getting in is straightforward for most Western visitors — many nationalities can enter without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. But Japan's border procedures are thorough and biometrics are collected from virtually all foreign arrivals, so it is worth knowing exactly what to expect and what the rules say for your passport before you fly.

Visa exemptions: who can enter without a visa

Citizens of a large number of countries — including the UK, most EU and EEA states, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many others — can enter Japan as tourists or short-stay visitors without a visa, typically for up to 90 days. Some nationalities are permitted shorter stays (15 or 30 days depending on the country).

The exemption is based on reciprocal bilateral agreements and can change. A handful of eligible countries also need to meet passport-validity requirements. The definitive list is maintained by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs — confirm your country's status there rather than relying on old information.

What the 90-day exemption allows

The visa-exempt stay covers tourism, visiting friends or relatives, and short-stay business activities such as attending meetings or conferences. It does not permit paid employment. The 90-day clock starts on the day you arrive; you cannot reset it with a short trip to South Korea or elsewhere and return expecting a fresh 90 days, as immigration officers keep track.

If you want to work, study for an extended period, or stay longer than the exemption allows, you need the appropriate visa arranged at a Japanese embassy or consulate before you travel.

Nationalities who need a visa

Citizens of countries without a visa-exemption agreement with Japan must obtain a visa in advance through a Japanese embassy or consulate. The most common type for tourists is a tourist (short-term) visa, valid for a single or double entry. Processing times and required documents vary by location; apply well in advance of your trip.

Japan has also introduced electronic visa systems in some countries, though availability is not universal. Check with your nearest Japanese diplomatic mission for the current application route in your country.

Arrival procedures

Japan's airports are efficient and the immigration process is well-organised, though queues can be long at major hubs like Tokyo Narita, Haneda, Osaka Kansai and Osaka Itami, particularly at peak travel times. All foreign nationals except small children provide fingerprints and a facial photograph on arrival — this is standard procedure and not cause for concern.

You will need to complete an Arrival Card — handed out on the aircraft or available at the airport — which asks for your address in Japan (hotel name and address, or a contact), your occupation and the purpose of your visit. An address is required; "travelling" is not sufficient. Completing this neatly and accurately in advance speeds the process.

Customs and what to declare

Japan has clear customs rules and officers can be thorough. Items that require declaration or that may be restricted or prohibited include:

• Currency over the equivalent of about one million yen (roughly equivalent to around US$6,000–7,000, though check the current figure)
• Prescription medications — some common medicines in other countries (certain painkillers, stimulants and pseudoephedrine-containing cold medicines) are controlled or banned in Japan; check carefully if you carry regular medication. See our guide on crossing borders with medication.
• Food products (especially fresh produce, meats and dairy)
• Duty-free allowances cover a small amount of alcohol, cigarettes and gifts

Japan has a zero-tolerance approach to illegal drugs; penalties are severe.

Visit Japan Web and digital registration

Japan operates the Visit Japan Web service, which lets arriving travellers pre-register immigration and customs information online before arrival, enabling faster processing. Registering in advance is voluntary but speeds up your time at the border. Japan has also explored introducing a pre-travel registration requirement (sometimes described as a "Visit Japan ETA"), so check whether any such requirement has been introduced before your trip.

Practicalities on the ground

Japan's public transport system is exceptional — the combination of the Shinkansen bullet-train network, regional railways and local subway systems makes it one of the easiest countries in the world to navigate without a car. If you are visiting multiple cities, a Japan Rail Pass (purchased before arrival from authorised overseas sellers) can offer excellent value. The logic of a rail pass — buy in advance, unlimited travel — applies equally here.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa to visit Japan as a tourist?

Citizens of many countries — including the UK, US, Canada, Australia and most EU states — can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism. Confirm your country's status on the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before travelling.

What address do I give on the Japan Arrival Card?

Write the name and full address of your first night's accommodation. If you do not have a booking yet, a reputable hostel or hotel in your destination city is acceptable. "Travelling" alone is not a valid answer and may cause delays.

Can I bring prescription medication into Japan?

Some medications common in other countries are controlled or prohibited in Japan, including certain stimulants and medicines containing pseudoephedrine. Research your medications carefully before travel and carry a doctor's letter and the original packaging. For controlled substances, advance import approval (Yakkan Shoumei) is required.

Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days in Japan?

Visa-exempt visitors cannot simply extend a tourist stay beyond the permitted period. Overstaying is a serious offence. If you need a longer stay, apply for the appropriate visa before arriving in Japan through your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.