Japan Begins Issuing eVisas to Tourists from 10 Countries

Japan has introduced an electronic visa system that allows foreign nationals to apply online for a short-term tourist visa. The Japan eVISA system became available on May 23, 2025. 

It is open to applicants residing in ten countries and regions, including Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

All foreign nationals residing in these countries, with the exception of those who are exempt from Japan’s short-term visa policy, can apply for a single-entry visa through the JAPAN eVISA website. 

Only holders of ordinary passports are eligible to use the eVISA system. Travelers using this visa must present a “Visa issuance notice” at the airport on the internet. Printed versions, screenshots, or PDFs will not be accepted.

Residents of certain other countries have specific procedures. Nationals of China who live in China must apply through accredited travel agencies. The same applies to Vietnamese nationals living in Vietnam, but only if they are part of packaged tours arranged by designated agencies.

The system also applies to foreign nationals residing in Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea (excluding those under the jurisdiction of the Consulate General of Japan in Jeju), and the United Arab Emirates. 

These applicants must also go through accredited agencies unless they are exempt from a short-term visa.

Electronic visas issued through the JAPAN eVISA website are valid for single entry only. For Chinese applicants living in China, the allowed period of stay is either 15 or 30 days. For Vietnamese nationals living in Vietnam, the period of stay is fixed at 15 days.

Japan’s eVISA is available only for those entering the country by air or by international passenger ferries between Japan and Busan or Shanghai. 

During the application process, the applicant might be required to appear in person at the Japanese overseas office that covers their place of residence for an interview.

Travelers who want to visit Japan for other reasons or plan to stay long-term must apply at the Japanese embassy, consulate general, or consular office responsible for their region. For residents of Taiwan, applications must be submitted through the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association offices in Taipei or Kaohsiung.