Japan eVisa requirements include a valid passport with 6+ months remaining validity, a passport-style photograph, proof of accommodation, flight itinerary, and bank statements showing at least $2,000 USD in funds. This guide details every document needed for a successful Japan eVisa application, including specific format requirements and tips for each document type.
Core Documents Required for the Japan eVisa
Every Japan eVisa application requires these fundamental documents. Missing or incomplete documents are the most common cause of processing delays and application denials.
1. Valid Passport
Your passport is the most critical document. Requirements:
- Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Japan
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank pages for entry/exit stamps
- Condition: No significant damage, tears, or water damage
- Format: Color scan of the bio page (the page with your photo and details)
If your passport expires within 6 months of your travel dates, renew it before applying for the eVisa. Japan strictly enforces this rule at immigration.
2. Passport-Style Photograph
The digital photograph must meet these specifications:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 45mm x 45mm (square format) |
| Background | White or off-white, no patterns |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open |
| Headwear | None (religious headwear permitted if face is fully visible) |
| Glasses | Remove if possible; if worn, no glare on lenses |
| Format | JPEG, minimum 600×600 pixels |
Top rejection reason: Blurry photos, incorrect dimensions, or photos with shadows. Use a professional photo service or a well-lit selfie against a white wall.
3. Flight Itinerary
You must provide proof of round-trip travel:
- Confirmed booking or reservation showing your name, flight numbers, and dates
- Entry date must match the requested visa start date
- Exit date must fall within the 90-day maximum stay
- Must show a return flight to your home country (or onward destination)
A booking confirmation from an airline or travel agent is accepted. You do not need to purchase tickets before your visa is approved – a reservation is sufficient for the application.
4. Proof of Accommodation
You need confirmed accommodation for your entire stay in Japan:
- Hotel booking – Confirmation showing your name, hotel address, check-in/check-out dates
- Airbnb or vacation rental – Booking confirmation with property address and host contact details
- Host invitation – If staying with friends or family, provide a letter of invitation with their address and contact information
If you are visiting multiple cities, provide accommodation for each location. The dates must align with your flight itinerary.
5. Financial Proof
Bank statements demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay:
- Requirement: Last 3 months of bank statements
- Minimum balance: Approximately $2,000 USD (varies by consulate)
- Format: Official bank statements with your name, account number, and bank stamp/logo
- Consistency: The balance should be stable or growing – sudden large deposits before application may raise concerns
For employed applicants, a letter from your employer confirming your position and salary strengthens your application. Self-employed applicants should provide business registration documents and tax returns.
Additional Documents by Visa Category
Beyond the core documents, specific visa types require additional paperwork:
Tourism Visa
- Detailed day-by-day itinerary in Japan
- Proof of previous international travel (optional but helpful)
- Travel insurance covering Japan (recommended)
Business Visa
- Invitation letter from the Japanese company (on company letterhead, with company seal/stamp)
- Letter from your employer confirming your position and purpose of travel
- Business registration of the inviting Japanese company
- Conference or event registration (if attending a specific event)
Visiting Relatives Visa
- Proof of relationship – Birth certificates, marriage certificates, or family register (koseki tohon)
- Invitation letter from the relative in Japan
- Residence card copy of the relative in Japan
- Guarantee letter from the relative (if they are sponsoring your stay)
Transit Visa
- Onward ticket to your final destination (confirmed booking)
- Visa for final destination (if required)
- Brief explanation of transit purpose
Document Format Requirements
The JAPAN eVISA portal has specific technical requirements for uploaded files:
| Document | Format | Max Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport scan | PDF or JPEG | 2MB | Color scan, all text readable |
| Photograph | JPEG | 2MB | 45x45mm, white background |
| Bank statements | 2MB per file | Last 3 months, official format | |
| Flight itinerary | PDF or JPEG | 2MB | Shows name, dates, flight numbers |
| Hotel booking | PDF or JPEG | 2MB | Shows name, address, dates |
| Invitation letter | 2MB | On letterhead with contact details |
Special Requirements for Minors
Applicants under 18 years old need additional documentation:
- Birth certificate showing both parents’ names
- Consent letter from both parents (or legal guardian) authorizing the trip
- Parents’ passport copies
- Custody documents (if traveling with one parent or a guardian)
- If the minor is traveling alone, a letter from both parents and the host in Japan
Documents NOT Required
Some documents are commonly confused as requirements but are not needed for the Japan eVisa:
- Travel insurance – Recommended but not mandatory for eVisa approval
- Criminal background check – Not required unless specifically requested
- Employment contract – Only needed for work visas, not tourist/business eVisa
- Hotel bookings for entire stay – You need accommodation proof but can adjust dates after approval
Common Document Mistakes
These errors cause the most application delays:
- Passport scan too dark or blurry – Use a proper scanner, not a phone camera
- Photo does not meet specifications – Wrong size, old photo, or glasses with glare
- Bank statement too old – Must be from the last 3 months
- Name on documents differs from passport – Even small spelling differences cause issues
- Dates don’t align – Flight, hotel, and application dates must be consistent
- Document files too large – Compress files to under 2MB before uploading
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required for the Japan eVisa?
The core documents are a valid passport (6+ months validity), passport-style photo (45x45mm), flight itinerary, hotel booking, and bank statements (last 3 months, minimum $2,000). Additional documents depend on your visa type.
Do I need a translated passport for the Japan eVisa?
No. If your passport is in English, no translation is needed. For passports in other languages, some consulates may request a certified translation of the bio page.
How much money do I need in my bank account?
The recommended minimum is approximately $2,000 USD for the duration of your stay. This is not an official threshold but a guideline based on typical living costs in Japan. Longer stays or stays in expensive cities like Tokyo may require higher balances.
Can I use a sponsor’s bank statement instead of my own?
Yes, if you have a sponsor (such as a relative or employer in Japan). They must provide their bank statements along with a sponsorship letter explaining their relationship to you and their commitment to cover your expenses.
Do I need travel insurance for the Japan eVisa?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for eVisa approval but is strongly recommended. Japan’s healthcare system is excellent but expensive for foreign visitors. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation and hospital stays in Japan.
What if my passport expires soon?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay. If it expires sooner, renew your passport before applying for the eVisa. A new passport means a new application.
Last updated: June 2026. Requirements sourced from JAPAN eVISA portal and official consulate checklists. Verify current requirements at evisa.mofa.go.jp.
