Information for US Citizens Traveling to Japan (2023)

welcome to japan

The US Embassy and Consulates in Japan are pleased to welcome US citizen visitors to Japan!

We encourage you to follow us on Twitter (@ACSTokio) and Facebook (@ACSTokio). Travelers should also consider registeringSmart Traveler Registration Program.

US military personnel and their dependents with SOFA status should contact their chain of command directly for guidance and follow the process outlined in the Alien Authorization Guidelines.

Visa-free travel for US citizen visitors

Currently, visitors with US passports do not require a visa for short-term visits (up to three months).

due to travelregulationsand the limit iscomplicatedySubject to change without notice,The US Embassy strongly urges any US citizen considering traveling to Japan to carefully review the information provided by the Japanese government. Travelers who are unsure of their eligibility to travel to Japan should contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for more information.

(Video) NEW Japan Entry Requirements RELEASED! Here's What You NEED To Know!

As of midnight (Japan time) on April 29, 2023, all travelers arriving in Japan will no longer be required to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test. For more information:https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/bordercontrol.html。

Military travelers arriving in Japan under the Status of Forces Agreement should check with their chain of command prior to travel to ensure they are aware of the applicable requirements.

The US embassy has extremely limited ability to intervene in the case of travelers who are denied boarding at the point of departure or entry upon arrival in Japan, while those who are denied entry at a Japanese port of entry may immediately re-board to the United States.

Please note that travel and entry requirements may change frequently. For more information and up-to-date guidance, please contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate to your location:https://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/over/index.html

Passengers entering Japan can use the electronic customs declaration gates (e-Gates) to clear customs, reducing person-to-person contact. Travelers may wish to learn more about the program before arriving in Japan. seeJapan customs websiteLearn more.

Japanese Coronary Pneumonia (COVID-19)

Currently, there are no COVID-19 tests, proof of vaccinations, or quarantine requirements for travel to Japan. However,We strongly recommend that all US citizens carefully review the following informationWebsite of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), provides official guidance. While a COVID-19 test is not required to enter Japan, a non-exhaustive list of some COVID-19 testing facilities can be found here.on the embassy website, if the traveler must undergo tests to travel to other countries.

Know Before You Go: Banned Substances

(Video) 15 Tips for First-Time Travellers to Japan | japan-guide.com

Information for US Citizens Traveling to Japan (1)

Many common and over-the-counter drugs in the United States are illegal in Japan, whether or not you have a valid American prescription. If you carry it with you, you risk being arrested and detained by the Japanese authorities. It is your responsibility to make sure you know which substances are prohibited. The US Embassy and Consulates in Japan do not have a complete list of prohibited drugs or substances. General information provided solely by the Government of Japan and subject to change without notice. Please check the JapaneseWebsite of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW), includeFrequently asked questions, emailyakkan@mhlw.go.jpBefore traveling to Japan.

Travelers who need to carry medicines or medical devices in quantities greater than those approved by the Ministry of Land, Welfare and Welfare must obtain an "Import Certificate" before traveling and present the prescription to customs officials upon arrival in Japan.The approval certificate from the Japanese government may take several weeks to process and must be received prior to bringing the drug or medical device into Japan.

All travelers entering Japan with prescription drugs (including drugs that are not restricted in Japan) should consider bringing a copy of their doctor's prescription and a letter explaining what the drug is for.

For more information on how to bring medicine into Japan and how to obtain a "Yunyu Kakunin-sho" certificate, visitHome page of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfareand emailyakkan@mhlw.go.jp

When you inquire by emailyakkan@mhlw.go.jpPlease include the following information:

  • active ingredient of the drug
  • drug name
  • Dosage and Quantity
  • Your email address

Passport/ID

Make sure you always carry your passport with you when you travel to Japan. This is a legal requirement and the local police may ask you to verify your identification. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. If you plan to travel to other countries during your trip, be sure to check each country's passport expiration and visa requirements.

(Video) How did you get a Japan Visa ?

Lost or stolen passport

Embassies are ready to help US citizens replace lost or stolen passports. We will work with you to replace your passport as quickly as possible. Our ability to issue passports outside of business hours is extremely limited. More information can be foundhere

Emergencies in Japan

Ensuring the safety of US citizens abroad is the State Department's top priority. US citizens needing emergency assistance should contact us using our contact details.QuestionnaireOr call (03-3224-5000). If you need assistance after hours in an emergency, please call 03-3224-5000 and ask to speak to the Embassy Duty Officer.

  • Emergency Contact Information for US Citizens
  • Emergency Preparedness for US Citizens in Japan
  • Sources of help, including counseling services

medical assistance in japan

Other useful information:

The embassy has compiled a list of resources that may have the answers you are looking for.

  • driving in japan
  • Importing or bringing medicines for personal use into Japan
  • legal assistance
  • Subject Index from A to Z

natural disaster

(Video) 🇯🇵 TOKYO Travel tips 🇯🇵 | Watch BEFORE you go!

Japan is an earthquake prone country with frequent earthquakes.typhoonand other natural disasters. In some cases, earthquakes can causetsunami. If a disaster occurs while you are traveling, the authorities will provide you with guidance on what to do immediately afterward. In some cases, sirens may sound before earthquakes or other disasters hit the area. The Japanese government sends security alerts to users through various apps, at least one of which offers information in English: Japan National Tourism Organizationsecurity warningapplication.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has aDisaster Prevention Information SiteInformation on how to respond to natural disasters in the area.

More information can be found on our websitewebsite

Japan Visa and Immigration Information

Visas for US citizens wishing to travel, study, or work in Japan are controlled by the Japanese government. While the Japanese government is the final authority on visas, we have provided general visa information for US citizens to help you plan. US citizens without a work visa are not allowed to work in Japan. Check, pleasehereGet details.

The Japan Immigration Service has set up a one-stop inquiry center and information center to handle inquiries over the phone, in person, and by email in Japanese and foreign languages. The contact information of each prefectural center islisted here

Follow us on social networks

  • Twitter (@ACSTokyo)
  • Facebook (@ACSTokyo)

disclaimer

(Video) How to Spend 14 Days in Japan - A Japan Travel Itinerary

The above information is general information provided to embassies by the relevant local authorities and is subject to change without notice. The US Embassy assumes no responsibility for inaccuracies in the above information. US citizens who wish to obtain additional or more personalized information should contact the appropriate local authority.

FAQs

Information for US Citizens Traveling to Japan? ›

Effective as of midnight April 29, 2023 (Japan time), all travelers arriving in Japan will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test certificate.

Can U.S. citizens travel to Japan now? ›

Effective as of midnight April 29, 2023 (Japan time), all travelers arriving in Japan will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test certificate.

What does a US citizen need to enter Japan? ›

You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business "visa free" stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan. You cannot work on a 90-day "visa free" entry.

What are the Covid travel restrictions in Japan? ›

Currently, there are no COVID-19 testing , proof of vaccination, or quarantine requirements to travel to Japan.

What to do if you get COVID while traveling in Japan? ›

Stay home and quarantine for 7days after patient develops symptoms. During that period, stay away from people you live with, wash your hands, wear a well-fitting mask and sanitize the place you might touch, and dispose the garbage properly.

What Covid tests are accepted for travel to Japan? ›

RT-PCR (NAAT). Results < 24 hours.

What vaccines are accepted in Japan? ›

Japan
  • Takeda. TAK-019 (Novavax formulation) ...
  • Moderna. Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron BA. ...
  • Moderna. Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron BA. ...
  • Pfizer/BioNTech. Comirnaty. ...
  • Pfizer/BioNTech. Comirnaty Bivalent Original/Omicron BA. ...
  • Pfizer/BioNTech. Comirnaty Bivalent Original/Omicron BA. ...
  • Takeda. ...
  • Oxford/AstraZeneca.

What is the best month to go to Japan? ›

The best time to visit Japan is between March and May and between September and November as it's both warm and dry between these periods. However, the joys of springtime and the iconic blooming of the cherry blossoms in Japan are no secret, which means you'll be sharing the space with plenty of other travellers.

What medications are prohibited in Japan? ›

Which Prescription Medicines are Banned? Heroin, cocaine, MDMA, opium, cannabis (including CBD oils), and some prescription medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine are banned in Japan. There are no exceptions for prohibited medications, even if the medication is legally obtained outside of Japan.

What is the point of embarkation in Japan? ›

Point of Embarkation is the last city that you went through customs before arriving in Japan.

What documents do you need to enter Japan? ›

  • Eligible Visa or the “Letter of Confirmation of Submitting Required Documentation for Re-entry into Japan”
  • Certificate of pre-entry test results issued within 72 hours (from the sampling time to departure time of the flight) (original or copy)
  • “Written Pledge (Business Track) (PDF) ” (updated on November 10) 2 copies.

Do I need a QR code to enter Japan? ›

Present your QR code and passport. * An internet connection is necessary for downloading. * To enter the information on the airplane, you must download before boarding. * Both smartphones and computers are supported.

What is the app for Japan arrival? ›

Although there are now no Covid protocols for Japan, the Japanese government still strongly recommends that you use the Visit Japan Web app to enter Japan. This app is used to enter your arrival information and customs declaration prior to arriving in Japan.

Do I need to do pre departure COVID test for Japan? ›

Vaccination certificates and pre-departure tests are no longer required to enter Japan. Travelers and returnees with COVID-19 symptoms will no longer be subjected to on-arrival testing. Travelers with a positive COVID-19 test result will not be treated at designated facilities.

Do I need to quarantine upon arrival in Japan? ›

The Japanese government's border quarantine measures have been revised, and from 0:00 a.m. (Japan time) on April 29, 2023, it is no longer necessary to present a valid vaccination certificate or certificate of inspection. You also do not need to pre-register for quarantine procedures on Visit Japan Web.

Do US citizens need a COVID test to enter the US? ›

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check with the Department of State for travel advisories.

What type of PCR do i need to enter japan? ›

AS OF THE 29th OF APRIL 2023, PROOF OF VACCINATION AND NEGATIVE PCR TEST RESULTS ARE NO LONGER REQUIRED FOR ENTRY INTO JAPAN.

What does fully vaccinated mean? ›

The CDC uses the term “up to date” regarding vaccines and boosters when eligible. Individuals are considered “fully vaccinated” (1) two weeks after receiving the second dose in a two dose COVID-19 vaccine series or (2) two weeks after receiving a single dose COVID-19 vaccine.

What type of COVID-19 test is required for travel to USA? ›

Rescission: Requirement for Negative Pre-Departure COVID-19 Test Result or Documentation of Recovery from COVID-19 for all Airline or Other Aircraft Passengers Arriving into the United States from Any Foreign Country.

Is Japan reopening to tourists? ›

After being closed to tourists for over two and a half years, Japan reopened to visa- and agent-free foreign tourism in October 2022. Americans can visit Japan without applying for a visa, needing to book a group tour or special agent, testing on arrival or having to quarantine.

Do you need PCR test to enter US? ›

As of June 12, 2022, the requirement for presenting proof of a negative viral test result before entering the U.S is suspended. This decision may be adjusted if conditions warrant. Monitor your health and look for symptoms of COVID-19.

Which COVID-19 vaccine is the most widely accepted for international travel? ›

The AstraZeneca vaccine is the most widely accepted, with 119 governments recognising it—it is the most-used vaccine and it is also approved by the World Health Organisation (along with Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and two Chinese vaccines).

How many days in Japan is enough? ›

Ideally, how long for a trip to Japan ? We recommend a minimum of 2 weeks to discover the Japanese archipelago. This is the minimum travel time in Japan to have time to visit Tokyo, Kyoto and their surroundings. For this, we advise you to spend a minimum of 6 nights in Tokyo and 6 nights in the Kyoto region .

How much money should I bring to Japan? ›

Sample daily budgets
Single TravelerTwo Travelers
Low Budget3,500 - 7,800 yen7,000 - 15,600 yen
Medium Budget8,800 - 18,500 yen13,600 - 28,000 yen
High Budgetover 18,500 yenover 28,000 yen
Dec 3, 2022

What do I need to know before going to Japan? ›

10 things to know before traveling to Japan
  • Squat toilets are still a thing. ...
  • You don't need to tip. ...
  • Cash is king. ...
  • ATMs might not accept your card. ...
  • Japan offers tourists unlimited rail passes. ...
  • No trash cans anywhere. ...
  • The Japanese address system is mind-boggling. ...
  • English is not that widely spoken.
Jul 1, 2021

Is Tylenol illegal in Japan? ›

The following over-the-counter medications are prohibited in Japan since they contain narcotic or stimulant ingredients in excess of the Japanese standard: TYLENOL COLD.

Is it illegal to bring Tylenol to Japan? ›

What OTC medication can you bring? Travelers are permitted to bring a two-month (60 day) supply of any permissible over-the-counter medication, and an equivalent amount of vitamins. This also applies to contact lenses. If you need more than two months' supply, a Yunyu Kakunin-sho (輸入確認書) would then be needed.

Is ibuprofen allowed in Japan? ›

Bringing Ibuprofen to Japan

For over-the-counter Ibuprofen, individuals are permitted to bring in up to a two-month supply for personal use without the need for any paperwork.

Do you go through security when landing in Japan? ›

First, go to the security check and have your baggage inspected. Then, proceed to customs and immigration. If you have any duty-free items, present your passport and the things you've purchased to the customs officers. The more duty-free goods you have, the longer it takes to inspect.

How long does it take to go through customs in Japan? ›

At immigration It takes as long as it takes. Normally around 45 min to an hour. Usually it takes 15minutes average but it can be way more if there are other flights and human delay.

How long does it take to get through customs at Narita airport? ›

Try to schedule your arrival at Narita Airport before 2 p.m. You need three to four hours to clear customs/immigration, collect your bags and then make the connection from Narita to Haneda by bus. If you arrive in Narita after 2 p.m. we recommend you stay overnight near Narita.

When should I fill up my Visit Japan Web? ›

You can start the Fast Track process as early as you want, as long as you complete it no later than 6 hours before your arrival in Japan.

Do I need to book tickets before applying for Japan visa? ›

No, you're not required to do that. You can book your flight and your hotel once your Japan Visa is approved.

Do I need to book a flight before applying for Japan visa? ›

We do not recommend that you to purchase your flight ticket before the VISA is issued, in case your VISA is not approved. However some Embassies will need you to have your flight ticket when you apply for the VISA, so please check with your nearest Japanese Embassy.

Are masks required on international flights to Japan? ›

Until now, we have been asking passengers to wear facemasks in accordance with the guidelines for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 in the aviation sector, however, according to the new governmental policy, JAL has also decided to leave the wearing of facemasks by passengers as well as those airline staff both ...

How do I get the QR code for Japan? ›

You are also required to have your own individual QR code. This can be acquired through Visit Japan Web's website. This will basically fast track you through various procedures such as quarantine, immigration, and customs declaration.

Do you need vaccine certificate to enter Japan? ›

In applying measures based on New Border Measures (28) (May 20, 2022), COVID-19 vaccination certificates recognized as valid since July 31, 2022, in principle, fall under any of the categories 1. or 2.

Do US citizens need a visa for Japan? ›

Entry & Exit:

You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business "visa free" stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan.

How do I register for arrival in Japan? ›

Click on “Registering Planned Entry/Return” then “New Registration”. Give your holiday a nickname then enter your planned arrival date in Japan, Airline company name, and light number (without letters). If you've entered your Intended address in Japan during Step 1, this field will be automatically populated.

What texting app do Japanese people use? ›

Line is the most popular messaging application in Japan, Taiwan and Thailand.

Do US citizens need Covid test for Japan? ›

Effective as of midnight April 29, 2023 (Japan time), all travelers arriving in Japan will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test certificate.

Do you need a tour guide for Japan? ›

Many tourists travel around in Japan without a guide just fine. But of course, you have to put more work in trip planning. A good research beforehand is definitely needed for a smooth trip. If you have access to the internet, google maps, and google translate (if needed), it's even better.

What happens if you test positive for Covid upon arrival in Japan? ›

※ Those entering Japan with symptoms of suspected COVID-19 infection will be tested upon arrival. Furthermore, those who tested positive will be required to quarantine at a designated facility. ※ You may use "Visit Japan Web" for immigration and customs. ⇒You can refer to Visit Japan Web here.

How long is quarantine in Japan now? ›

Self-isolation and Close Contact

【Symptomatic】1) 7 whole days after the first sign of symptoms and 2) 24 hours free of any symptoms or 2 consecutive negative results on a COVID-19 test taken at least 24 hours apart, after being free of symptoms.

Do us citizens have to be vaccinated to come back to the us? ›

Q: Do U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land POEs and ferry terminals? A: No. Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs).

Do you have to be vaccinated to return to us? ›

All non-immigrant, non-U.S. citizen air travelers to the United States are required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the United States.

Do you need proof of vaccination to enter the US? ›

As of 12:01 am EDT May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. See more information.

Can I go to Japan with a US green card? ›

Yes, you can travel abroad as a green card holder — that's one of the many benefits of being a permanent resident. However, your trip must be temporary and you cannot remain outside the United States for more than 1 year.

Which countries can enter Japan without visa? ›

Countries that are Visa Exempt from Requiring a Japanese Visa
CountryCountryCountry
MonacoNew ZealandNetherlands*
North MacedoniaNorwayPoland*
Portugal*Romania*San Marino
SerbiaSingaporeSlovakia*
19 more rows

How much is the e visa for Japan? ›

Type of visa for tourism: Japan e visa for Indian nationals. Visa fee: 3,000 yen (approx. INR 1835). Japan visa duration of stay: Single-entry for 90 day stay.

How long does it take to get a Japanese eVISA? ›

The processing time for an eVISA is the SAME as that for a traditional sticker visa (4-7 business days). We do NOT offer expedited service. In the eVISA system, you can only select scheduled dates of entry into Japan after 7 days from the submission date.

Do U.S. citizens need visa to travel to Japan? ›

Citizens from the United States are required to obtain a visa to travel to Japan, regardless of the intended length of stay and the purpose of the visit.

Is Japan open to visa-free tourists? ›

Japan visa-free travel news & update

There are currently no formalities related to Covid that need to be fulfilled to enter Japan. Being vaccinated against Covid or providing a negative Covid test result is not required to enter Japan.

What countries do not accept US passport? ›

The US passport is recognized by all countries in the world, and while the majority of nations accept US passports for entry, there are a few exceptions and limitations. Some countries that have restrictions on US passport holders are North Korea, Iran, Syria, Yemen, and Libya.

Can tourists visit Japan visa-free? ›

All nationalities who are not visa-exempt need a visa to enter Japan. Citizens of certain countries can enter with Temporary Visitor status for limited periods of time (15 to 90 consecutive days) for tourism or business purposes.

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