Frequently Visa Questions

Note: This information is designed as guide only and does not contain detailed information.
If you require further explanation, please contact the Embassy of Japan or one of the Consulates-General of Japan.

As an Australian citizen with an Australian passport, do I require a tourist visa to enter Japan?

No. Australians who enter Japan as tourists may stay for up to ninety days as long as they hold an Australian passport which remains valid during their stay and do not receive any income while in Japan.

I would like to work in Japan. How can I get a visa to work in Japan?

In order to get a visa to work in Japan, you must first find a potential employer who is willing to act as your sponsor and arrange for your Certificate of Eligibility. If you then qualify for a visa, one will be issued by an overseas Japanese diplomatic mission.

Once I am in Japan, can I change my entry status? For example, can I change from a tourist to a work visa?

No. Once you are in Japan you cannot in principle change your visa.  If you want to work in Japan you must obtain a working visa from a Japanese diplomatic mission in Australia or in a third country.

What documents will be required?

The following documents must be submitted whatever the purpose of the visit:
passport
Two 45mm x 45mm passport-type photos taken within the previous six months (stateless persons must submit three photos)
Two official visa application forms, available at the embassy or consulate
documents certifying the purpose of the visit (see the accompanying table)
A copy of a certificate of admission from the educational institution where the person concerned intends to study.
Documents certifying that the person concerned can defray all expenses incurred during the stay in Japan

How long required to issue visa?

Usually 2-7 days
Note: In the case of applications that require inquiries to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (for example, applications for work or study visas that are not accompanied by a Certificate of Eligibility), it usually takes two to three months or even longer, so in such cases please allow plenty of leeway

1. What is the cost of a visa?
   Single-entry: 3,000 yen / US$25
   Double or multiple-entry: 6,000 yen / US$50
   Note: Visa fees vary depending on nationality. Check with the nearest Consulate for further information
   
   

1. How long is the visa valid for?
   Depending on Nationality, students usually receive a 1 year visa. This is usually determined by the course duration. Extensions for student visas’ are usually possible.
   Temporary Visitor visas for tourism purposes are normally valid for a stay of up to 3 months (extensions for another 3 months granted at the discretion of Immigration Department in Japan), and Employment/Working visas (including intra-company transfer visas) for a period of up to 3 years.
   
   

Other information:
Any foreigner wishing to enter or land in Japan must possess a valid passport and a student visa obtained from an embassy or consulate.
A student visa cannot be acquired after arriving in Japan. It is not permitted to work in Japan under a student visa.
Nationals who are permitted to stay for 6 months will initially be granted a stay of up to 3 months and may then apply, while in Japan, to the local Immigration Department for an extension of a further 3 months.
Such extensions are at the discretion of the immigration authorities in Japan and may not be granted. For further information contact the Consulate (or Consular Section at Embassy).