Some journeys include a short stop in Japan before the final destination.

A Japan Transit Visa allows brief entry during this stop, either for immigration transfer or a short stay outside the airport.

Who Requires a Transit Visa to Cross Japan?

Those who aren't citizens of any of the following countries would need a transit visa to cross Japanese borders, and those who want to enter a third destination country via Japan need to stay at the airport.

Travellers from the countries below may also be exempt if they hold an ICAO-compliant e-Passport or machine-readable passport.

• Barbados
• Indonesia (visa exemption- up to 15 days)
• Lesotho
• Malaysia
• Serbia
• Thailand (visa exemption- up to 15 days)
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates (visa exemption- up to 30 days)

Transit without a visa is allowed if you remain in the international transit area, hold a confirmed onward ticket, and depart within 72 hours.

If any condition is not met, apply for a transit visa before travel.

Documents Required for Japanese Transit Visa

• Valid passport with blank visa pages.
• Completed visa application form with recent passport-size photos.
• Confirmed travel itinerary showing arrival, departure, reservation number, and airline-issued certificate.
• A visa or entry permission for your next destination.
• Proof of financial means, such as a bank statement.

How to Obtain a Japanese Transit Visa?

You must apply through any Japan Diplomatic Representation office in your country. This could be an embassy or a consulate. 

Follow these steps:

1. Prepare the required documents, such as the visa application form, passport, and travel itinerary.
2. Submit your application at the embassy, consulate, or authorised agency.
3. Pay the visa fee if applicable.
4. Wait for processing and collect your passport after a decision.

Note: Application procedures may vary slightly depending on the embassy or consulate.

Transit Visa Fee and Processing

Validity and Stay Duration

Note: The type of visa issued depends on the traveller’s nationality and travel route.

What is a Japan Shore Pass?

A Japan Shore Pass allows some transit passengers to leave the airport without a transit visa for a short stay. It is usually granted when the next flight departs within 72 hours.

Immigration officers issue it at the airport. Approval is not guaranteed.

Eligibility Criteria for Japan Shore Pass

• You possess the necessary travel documents for your final destination country.
• You have sufficient finances to stay in Japan until the day of your connecting flight.
• You must arrive and depart from airports or seaports within the same designated group.

Check your arrival and departure group below:

FAQs

Can I visit family or attend a business meeting in Japan on a transit visa? Can I change airports in Japan during transit without a transit visa? What if my connecting flight from Japan is delayed or rescheduled?