Japan is renowned for its world-class medical facilities, highly skilled healthcare professionals and advanced medical technology. Foreign nationals who are travelling to Japan for medical treatment need to apply for a Japan Medical Stay Visa, which allows patients to receive essential medical care at medical institutions in the country.

Accompanying family members may also apply for the same visa if their presence is necessary to accompany the patient.

Start Your Japan e Visa Today

Documents Required for a Japan Medical Visa

Below is a list of the necessary documents:

Note: Required documents may vary based on the applicant’s nationality and the Japanese Embassy or Consulate-General handling the application.

Steps for Applying for a Japan Medical Visa

1. Obtain Necessary Documents: Before applying, ensure you have all the required documents, including a passport and a photo.
2. Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the visa application form completely and accurately, which can be obtained from the Japanese embassy or consulate website.
3. Submit the documents: Submit the completed application form and all the required documents to the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. Depending on the embassy's specific procedures, you may need to make an appointment or submit the documents via mail.
4. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the visa processing fee. The fee may vary by country. Payment methods will depend on the embassy or consulate’s policy.
5. Interview (if required): Typically, in complicated or special cases, the embassy or consulate may request an interview to clarify any questions about your visa application.
6. Collect Your Japan Medical Visa: Once your medical visa application is approved, collect your visa from the embassy or consulate.

Visa Fees and Processing Times for Japan Medical Visas

When applying for a Japanese medical visa, applicants should be aware of the associated fees and processing times. These can vary slightly depending on your nationality and the specific embassy or consulate you are applying through.

Visa Fees

The visa processing fee for a Japanese medical visa varies depending on the applicant's nationality and the consulate or embassy that handles the application.

Processing Time

After submission, the processing time for a Japanese medical visa typically takes several business days. This may fluctuate depending on the complexity of your case and the burden of the embassy or consulate. Processing may be delayed if additional documentation or clarification is needed. 

Factors Affecting Processing Times

• Document Completeness: Missing or incomplete documents may delay processing.
• Interview or Additional Information: If the embassy or consulate requests further information or an interview, it will lengthen the processing time.
• Peak Times: Visa processing may take longer during peak periods, such as holidays or high-demand seasons.

Extensions and Validity of a Japanese Medical Visa

A Japan Medical Stay Visa allows foreign patients to travel to Japan to receive medical treatment at a Japanese medical institution. The period of stay granted under this visa depends on the patient’s medical condition and the treatment plan arranged with the medical institution.

Validity of a Japanese Medical Visa

Validity: A Japan Medical Visa may be valid for up to 3 years. However, the permitted duration of stay for each visit may be 90 days, 6 months, or 1 year, depending on the patient’s medical condition and the treatment plan. 

Entry Type: Most medical visas are issued as single-entry visas, but in certain cases, multiple-entry visas may be granted if ongoing treatments require repeated visits, and a Medical Treatment Plan from a physician in Japan may be required.

Extension & Document Required for a Japan Medical Visa

• If the applicant's medical treatment in Japan requires a stay longer than 90 days longer stay than originally planned, a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) may be required while receiving medical services at a medical institution in Japan.
• The COE must be obtained from the Immigration Bureau of the Ministry of Justice through the relevant procedure. 
• This certificate is issued through the appropriate immigration procedure based on the patient’s treatment requirements.

Processing Time for Extensions

The processing time for a longer stay is generally decided by the Japanese immigration authorities based on the patient’s medical condition and treatment requirements.

Family Members Accompanying the Patient on a Japan Medical Visa

In some cases, individuals may accompany a patient travelling to Japan for medical treatment. Eligible accompanying persons can apply for a visa to stay with the patient during treatment. Here are the eligibility criteria and the visa application process:

Eligibility for Accompanying Persons

1. Accompanying persons may include family members or other individuals who are necessary to assist the patient during their stay in Japan.
2. Applicants may be required to provide documents confirming their relationship with the patient, including a marriage certificate for a spouse. 

Visa Application Process for Family Members

1. Separate Applications: Family members must submit separate visa applications along with the required documentation. 
2. Applicants must provide a certificate from the medical institution regarding the planned medical services and, where applicable, references from a guarantor.
3. Applicants may be required to submit documents showing their financial situation, such as bank statements.

Visa Type for Family Members

Family members may apply for the same medical visa when required, allowing them to stay in Japan with the patient during treatment, with the duration of their stay determined by the Japanese immigration authorities.

Accommodation and Financial Support

Applicants may need to provide relevant documents related to their stay and financial situation when applying for the visa. The patient (or their sponsor) will need to provide proof of sufficient financial means to cover the costs of both the patient’s and the family members’ stay in Japan.

Visa Fees for Family Members

Family members will be required to pay a visa processing fee, depending on the embassy or consulate where the application is submitted.

Tips for a Successful Medical Visa Application

• Prepare complete and accurate documents, keep copies of all submitted documents, and ensure they follow the embassy’s requirements, as missing or incomplete documents can delay your application.
• Provide a clear and detailed letter that outlines your medical condition, the type of treatment you will receive, and the duration of your stay in Japan.
• Apply well in advance to allow ample time to address any potential issues that may arise during the application process.
• Follow up with the embassy or consulate to confirm your Japan visa status and any updates on additional requests.
• Apply for the correct visa type, “medical visa”, and not another visa category.
• Do not engage in employment or any paid work on a Japan Medical Visa, as it is strictly prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do public holidays or embassy closures affect visa processing? How do I verify that my chosen Japanese hospital is accredited for medical visa purposes? Do I need to show proof of payment for my treatment costs in Japan? Are additional security checks performed for applicants from high-risk regions?

Content Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in May 2026, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.