Japan, a country renowned for its unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, continues to be a top destination for travelers worldwide. As of April 29, 2023, Japan has lifted all COVID-related entry requirements, including testing and vaccination certificates. This significant change means that entering Japan has returned to pre-pandemic conditions, greatly simplifying the entry process. This Guide to Entering Japan in 2024 will provide a detailed overview of the latest policies, procedures, and important considerations for entering Japan. By following the Guide to Entering Japan in 2024, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Basic Entry Procedures for Japan
Upon arrival in Japan, all foreign visitors, whether first-time travelers or frequent visitors, must follow certain basic procedures. All foreign nationals, including foreign residents, are required to undergo fingerprinting and photography upon entering Japan. This measure is aimed at preventing terrorism and other illegal activities, ensuring Japan’s national security. It’s worth noting that persons under the age of 16, diplomats, and visiting dignitaries are exempt from this procedure.
After completing the biometric information collection, all foreign nationals are granted a status of residence. Japan has over twenty statuses of residence, catering to various purposes of visit. These include the “temporary visitor” status for short-term tourists, as well as various statuses for students, workers, and relatives of Japanese nationals and residents. These different statuses of residence allow holders to engage in specific activities in Japan and stipulate the permitted duration of stay.
Entry Policies for Temporary Visitors
For tourists and business travelers planning short-term visits to Japan, the entry policy is relatively lenient. If you are a citizen of one of the over 50 countries with which Japan has a “general visa exemption arrangement,” you only need a valid passport to enter Japan as a “temporary visitor.” Most nationals can stay for up to 90 days under this arrangement.
However, citizens of certain countries enjoy special privileges. Visitors from Austria, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom have the opportunity to extend their stay for up to six months. Citizens of these countries initially receive a 90-day permit upon entry but can then apply for an extension at an immigration bureau in Japan. This provides greater flexibility for those wishing to engage in extended tourism or business activities in Japan.
To further streamline the entry process, the Japanese government has introduced the Visit Japan Web system. This digital platform allows visitors to submit immigration and customs-related information ahead of their arrival in Japan. Using this system not only eliminates the need to fill out paper forms but also creates a tax exemption QR code for an enhanced tax-free shopping experience. All visitors to Japan are encouraged to use this convenient system before their departure.
Temporary visitors should be aware of several important points during their stay in Japan. Firstly, temporary visitors are not allowed to engage in any paid activities, a measure designed to protect the local labor market. Secondly, while work is not permitted, temporary visitors can undertake short-term studies at Japanese language schools, providing an opportunity for those wishing to experience Japanese language and culture. Lastly, all foreign tourists are required to carry their passports with them at all times, as mandated by Japanese law.
New Policies for Long-Term Stays
Recently, the Japanese government has introduced two new visa policies aimed at attracting specific groups of long-term visitors. The first is a long-term tourist visa for wealthy individuals. This policy applies to citizens of the over 50 countries with which Japan has a “general visa exemption arrangement.” Applicants need to prove savings of over 30 million yen. Once approved, the applicant and their spouse may stay in Japan for up to one year for the purpose of sightseeing and recreation.
The second new policy is a visa for digital nomads. This policy is aimed at professionals with an annual income of over 10 million yen, allowing them to work remotely from Japan for up to six months. This initiative reflects Japan’s recognition of global work trends and its desire to attract high-skilled talent to live and work in the country.
It’s important to emphasize that both of these new visa types must be obtained before traveling to Japan. Prospective applicants should contact Japanese embassies or consulates in advance to understand the detailed application requirements and procedures.
Working in Japan
For foreign nationals planning to work in Japan long-term, Japan offers various work visa options. White-collar work visas are among the most common types, covering a range of professional fields including journalism, arts, research, education, engineering, entertainment, business management, and international services. Applying for these visas typically requires a university degree or considerable professional experience in the applicable field, as well as sponsorship from a prospective employer in Japan. Work visas are granted for periods ranging from 4 months to 5 years and are extendable.
In addition to traditional white-collar work visas, Japan has introduced the “Specified Skills” visa to address labor shortages in specific industries. This visa type is available for over a dozen professional fields, including construction, hospitality, nursing, and manufacturing. Applicants don’t need a degree but must pass a technical skills test and demonstrate some Japanese language proficiency. The “Specified Skills” visa comes in two types: Type 1 allows workers to stay in Japan for up to five years but they may not bring their family, while Type 2 can be extended indefinitely and allows for family members to live in Japan.
Furthermore, Japan has a “Technical Intern Training Program” that allows foreign workers to acquire skills at a workplace in Japan that they could not otherwise acquire in their home countries. After a few years, participants in this program become eligible to switch to the “Specified Skill” type 1 status, providing a pathway for career development.
Studying in Japan
For foreign students wishing to study in Japan long-term, a student visa must be obtained from a Japanese embassy or consulate outside of Japan. Applying for a student visa requires meeting two main conditions: first, the applicant needs sponsorship from an educational institution in Japan; second, they must prove they have sufficient funds to cover all expenses during their stay. Student visas are granted for periods ranging from 3 months to 4 years and 3 months and are extendable.
It’s important to note that holders of student visas must not engage in paid activities unless they get permission from the immigration office. This rule is designed to ensure that students focus on their studies. However, students can apply for special permission to work part-time, provided it doesn’t interfere with their studies.
Residence Card System
Japan implements a residence card system, and all new foreign residents are issued a residence card upon initially entering Japan. This card can be obtained directly at Narita, Haneda, Kansai, or Chubu airports. If entering through different ports, new residents can get their cards at their municipal offices.
The residence card is a crucial identification document that plays a key role in daily life in Japan. It is used for opening a bank account, obtaining a cell phone, converting a driver’s license, and many other aspects of life. By law, all foreign residents are required to carry their residence card with them at all times. This is not only a legal requirement but also facilitates daily life and various administrative procedures for foreign residents in Japan.
Conclusion
Japan’s entry policies are continuously being refined and optimized to provide diverse options for visitors with different purposes. Whether you’re planning a short-term trip, a long-term stay, or intending to work or study in Japan, understanding these entry regulations and procedures as outlined in the Guide to Entering Japan in 2024 will help you start your Japanese journey more smoothly.
It is advisable to carefully research relevant policies before departure and consult Japanese embassies or consulates abroad or immigration bureaus within Japan when necessary to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information. The Guide to Entering Japan in 2024 notes that the Japanese government is also constantly updating and improving entry procedures to provide a more convenient experience.
With the lifting of pandemic-related restrictions, Japan has once again opened its arms to the world. Whether you’re attracted by Japan’s traditional culture, interested in its modern technology, or simply want to experience the unique Japanese lifestyle, now is an excellent time to visit Japan. We hope this detailed Guide to Entering Japan in 2024 provides valuable reference for your trip to Japan, helping you enjoy a pleasant and fulfilling time in this charming country.
For more information, visit https://www.japan.travel/