Japan has officially expanded its electronic visa system for more countries, making travel to the country easier than ever for international tourists. As of January, 2026, the JAPAN eVISA system now allows travelers from multiple countries and regions to apply for a Japanese tourist visa fully online. For the 2026 travel season, this digital visa option is becoming one of the most convenient ways to visit Japan without the traditional embassy visit.
This guide explains the newest updates, who can apply, which countries are covered, and how the Japan eVISA works in practice.
What Is the Japan eVISA System?
The JAPAN eVISA system is Japan’s official online visa platform that allows eligible travelers to apply for a short-term tourist visa electronically. Instead of receiving a visa sticker in the passport, approved applicants receive a digital visa notice that must be shown online at the airport before boarding and on arrival in Japan.
The eVISA is designed strictly for tourism and short-term visits and is not valid for work, study, or long-term residence.
Countries Where Residents Can Apply Directly Online
Travelers who live in the following countries or regions can apply for a Japan eVISA directly through the official online system starting January 2026 onwards, provided they are not already exempt from a short-term visa requirement:
- Australia
- United Kingdom
- Brazil
- Canada
- Saudi Arabia
- Cambodia
- Taiwan
- South Africa
- United States
If you normally need a visa to enter Japan and you reside in one of these locations, the eVISA system now replaces the need to visit a Japanese embassy for a tourist visa application.
Countries Where eVISA Is Processed Through Agencies in 2026
In several regions, the Japan eVISA is available in 2026 but applications must be submitted through accredited travel agencies or designated channels instead of personal online filing.
China: Chinese nationals residing in China must apply through approved agencies.
Philippines: Filipino nationals residing in the Philippines can apply only if they are part of a packaged tour arranged by designated travel agencies.
Viet Nam: Vietnamese nationals residing in Viet Nam must also apply through authorized travel agencies and participate in an approved tour package.
Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, Republic of Korea, United Arab Emirates
All residents in these regions who are not visa-exempt may use the eVISA system, subject to local procedures. For South Korea, the system does not apply to applicants under the jurisdiction of the Japanese Consulate in Jeju.
Applicants in these locations should always check with the Japanese mission or authorized agencies in their area for the correct application route.
What Type of Visa Does Japan eVISA Cover?
The Japan eVISA is issued as a single-entry short-term stay visa for tourism purposes only.
Standard validity allows stays of up to 90 days.
However, there are special conditions for some nationalities:
- Chinese nationals residing in China receive eVISAs valid for 15 or 30 days.
- Vietnamese nationals residing in Viet Nam receive eVISAs valid for 15 days only.
This visa cannot be extended or converted into a work or residence permit after arrival.
Entry Rules for eVISA Holders
Japan eVISA holders must enter Japan through approved routes. Entry is allowed by air or by sea, with sea entry limited to international passenger ferries connecting Japan with Busan or Shanghai.
Only ordinary passport holders are eligible for the eVISA system. Diplomatic, service, or special passport holders must apply through traditional embassy channels.
During the application process, immigration authorities may request that the applicant appear in person at the Japanese embassy or consulate for verification or an interview if needed.
How to Show Your eVISA When Traveling?
Approved travelers do not receive a physical visa sticker for Japan’s evisa. Instead, they must display the Visa Issuance Notice online at the airport.
This must be shown live on an internet-connected device.
Screenshots, PDF files, and printed copies are not accepted.
Travelers should ensure they have internet access at the airport to avoid boarding issues.
When You Cannot Use the Japan eVISA?
The eVISA system is only for short-term tourism. If you plan to travel to Japan for any of the following purposes, you must apply through the Japanese Embassy or Consulate:
- Employment
- Study
- Business activities
- Family reunification
- Long-term residence
In these cases, your visa will be issued as a physical sticker in your passport instead of a digital notice.
Apply: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/visaonline.html