🇯🇵 2026 Latest Edition: Complete Guide to Japan Short-Term Stay Visas (Tourist Visas)

Conditions for Entry, Required Documents, and Application Procedures

[Supervised by Shionaga Gyoseishoshi Law Office, Kumamoto, Japan]

Introduction

The “Short-Term Stay Visa” (commonly known as a Tourist Visa) is the primary residency status for foreign nationals planning a temporary visit to Japan. This visa covers various purposes, including tourism, business meetings, visiting relatives, and attending academic conferences, allowing a stay of up to 90 days.

As of 2026, the number of visitors to Japan has reached record levels. In response, the visa exemption system has expanded to over 75 countries and regions. While the introduction of the JAPAN eVISA (electronic visa) has streamlined the process, screening has become more rigorous regarding the accuracy of documentation and the credibility of travel plans.

This guide, prepared by the experts at Shionaga Gyoseishoshi Law Office, provides a step-by-step walkthrough of the latest 2026 application flow. Based in Kumamoto, our firm supports clients nationwide with document preparation, review, and re-application for previously rejected cases.

1. What is a Short-Term Stay Visa?

This visa is for temporary visits only and strictly prohibits remunerated work.

Permitted Period of Stay

Determined during the visa screening or at the port of entry:

| Period | Typical Use Case | Notes |

| :— | :— | :— |

| Up to 15 Days | Short tourism (e.g., Thailand, Brunei) | Simplified screening. |

| Up to 30 Days | Business meetings (e.g., Qatar) | Suitable for short corporate trips. |

| Up to 90 Days | Visiting relatives or cultural exchange | Standard for most countries. No extensions. |

Permitted Activities

Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting temples in Kyoto, climbing Mt. Aso, or Kumamoto Castle.
Business: Meetings, negotiations, contract signings, or attending trade fairs (non-remunerated).
Visiting Relatives/Acquaintances: Attending weddings or visiting family.
Academic/Cultural Exchange: Giving unpaid lectures or attending symposiums.

⚠️ Strict Restrictions:

Employment Prohibited: Any activity that generates income in Japan (including part-time jobs) is strictly forbidden.

Remote Work: Under 2026 regulations, remote work for overseas employers is strictly monitored. Those intending to stay specifically for remote work should consider the Digital Nomad Visa.

2. Visa Exemption (Visa-Free) Countries

Citizens of approximately 75+ countries/regions do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.

Asia: South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia (expanded to 90 days).
North America/Oceania: USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand.
Europe: UK, all 27 EU member states, Switzerland, Norway.
Middle East/Latin America: UAE, Qatar, Mexico, Chile, Peru.

Citizens of China, India, Philippines, Vietnam, and most African/Middle Eastern nations generally MUST apply for a visa before travel.

3. Application Procedure (2026 Latest)

3-1. Where to Apply

Japanese Embassy/Consulate: In your country of residence.
External Agencies: VFS Global or BLS International (in specific countries like China or India).
JAPAN eVISA: Online application is now the standard for eligible countries.

3-2. Step-by-Step Flow

Preparation (1–2 weeks): Clarify your purpose and check the latest requirements on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
Document Gathering (2–4 weeks): Collect financial proofs and invitation letters from Japan (if applicable).
Submission: Submit via the eVISA portal or at the embassy.
Screening (3–7 business days): The fastest results are via eVISA.
Issuance: The visa is either affixed to your passport or issued as a digital “Visa Issuance Notice.”

4. Required Documents

Common Documents (All Applicants)

Passport: Must have at least 6 months validity.
Visa Application Form: With a 4.5 $\times$ 3.5cm photo (white background).
Flight Reservation: Proof of a round-trip ticket (e-ticket).
Schedule of Stay: A detailed day-by-day itinerary.

Specific Requirements by Purpose

Tourism: Bank statements (last 3 months, minimum $1,000$ JPY per day of stay), Employment Certificate.
Business: Invitation Letter from the Japanese company, List of Participants, and Company Registration (Tohyo) of the Japanese host.
Visiting Relatives: Proof of relationship (Birth/Marriage Certificate) and a Letter of Guarantee from the host in Japan.

5. Screening Points & Avoiding Rejection

The Immigration Bureau focuses on three key factors:

Genuineness of Purpose: Is the itinerary logical and consistent?
Financial Stability: Do you have enough funds? (Guideline: 10,000 JPY per day + airfare).
Intent to Return: Do you have strong ties to your home country (job, family, property)?

Reason for Rejection	Risk Level	Strategy
Vague Travel Plan	High (30%)	Attach hotel bookings and specific sightseeing locations.
Insufficient Funds	Medium (25%)	Provide multiple bank statements or a guarantor’s income tax certificate.
Inconsistent Documents	Low (10%)	Use a professional checklist or hire an Administrative Scrivener.

6. 2026 Institutional Trends

Standardization of eVISA: Online applications are now the primary method for short-term tourism.
Preparation for J-eTA: Japan is preparing an “Electronic Travel Authorization” (eTA) system for visa-exempt travelers, similar to the US ESTA, with pilot programs beginning in 2026.

Summary

While the 2026 digitalization makes applying for a Japan visa faster, the requirements for financial proof and purpose of stay remain strict. Shionaga Gyoseishoshi Law Office provides expert legal support to ensure your application is successful on the first attempt.

For a free consultation and professional document review, contact us:

Shionaga Gyoseishoshi Law Office

📍 1-9-6 Suizenji, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Japan

📞 Phone: 096-385-9002 (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM JST)

🌐 Website: https://shionagaoffice.jp/