Japan’s Visa Exemption
Nationalities that can enter Japan visa-free
Many travelers can visit Japan without a visa thanks to the country’s extensive visa exemption policy.
The visa-exemption policy allows citizens of select nations to enter Japan for short-term stays for tourism, business, or visiting friends and family, without the need to apply for a visa.
Below is a complete guide to how Japan’s visa exemption works, who qualifies, and what to prepare before you travel.
What Is Japan’s Visa Exemption Policy?
Japan’s visa exemption policy permits citizens of certain countries to enter without obtaining a Japan visa in advance, provided their stay is short-term (usually up to 90 days).
The length of the permitted stay and the conditions of entry depend on the traveler’s nationality and purpose of visit.
Visa-exempt travelers must still meet general entry requirements, such as holding a valid passport, showing proof of onward travel, and demonstrating sufficient funds for their stay.
They’re also subject to immigration inspection upon arrival.
Which nationalities are visa-exempt for Japan?
Japan maintains reciprocal visa waiver agreements with over 60 countries and regions.
Below is an overview of visa-exempt nationalities categorized by continent.
Europe
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom
North America
South America
- Argentina
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Mexico
- Uruguay
Asia
- Brunei
- Hong Kong (SAR)
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- United Arab Emirates
Oceania
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Fiji
- Micronesia
Middle East & Africa
- Israel
- Tunisia
- Turkey
If you’re not visa-exempt, eligible citizens can easily apply for the Japan eVisa online for a quick and secure approval process.
Documents for Visa-Exempt Travel to Japan
Even if you’re from a visa-exempt country, you’ll still need to present certain documents upon arrival in Japan. These include:
- Passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Japan
- Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
- Completed arrival and customs forms
Japanese immigration officers may request additional supporting information about your visit’s purpose or duration. Entry permission is always granted at their discretion.
Japan Visa Exemption Limitations
While Japan’s visa exemption system simplifies short-term travel, it comes with some important restrictions:
- Duration of stay: Most visa-free visitors can remain in Japan for up to 90 days, depending on nationality. Extensions are generally not permitted for visa-exempt travelers.
- Purpose of visit: The exemption only applies to tourism, business meetings, or visiting acquaintances. Activities such as paid work, long-term study, or residence require the appropriate visa.
- Re-entry rules: Frequent re-entry attempts may be questioned by immigration authorities if they appear to be for the purpose of long-term residence.
- Non-eligible travelers: Nationals not listed under Japan’s visa waiver agreements must apply for a Japan eVisa or traditional visa before traveling.
Tip: Even if you’re visa-exempt, prepare your documents in advance to make entry into Japan smoother.