Criminal Penalties:While in Japan, you must comply with Japanese laws. If you break Japanese law, you could be arrested, imprisoned, or deported even without knowing it. if you get arrested in japaneven slight negligence, you may be held without bail for several months or more during investigations and legal proceedings.
Additionally, certain crimes are prosecuted in the United States regardless of Japanese law. For example, see our websiteCrimes against minors abroadyMinistry of Justicewebsite.
The vast majority of US citizens arrested in Japan are for drug-related offenses, and those arrested often remain in detention for months or years. Japanese authorities aggressively go after drug dealers and users, including recreational users, using sophisticated detection equipment, "sniffing" dogs, blood tests, "stop-and-frisk" tactics, and other methods. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Japan are severe, and convicted criminals can receive lengthy prison terms and fines. Please note that some drugs that may be legal in some jurisdictions outside of Japan, including marijuana and synthetic drugs, are still illegal in Japan. This also applies to certain drugs that may be prescribed by a doctor in the US. Having a medical marijuana prescription does not exempt you from Japanese law, which makes no distinction between medical and recreational marijuana. Possession of even a small amount for personal use can result in lengthy prison terms and fines. Japanese customs officials screen incoming packages, and people who send drugs through the mail can be arrested and prosecuted as drug dealers.
Confiscation of prescriptions and other medications:It's worth noting that some drugs (including Adderall) that are routinely prescribed in the United States are strictly prohibited in Japan. The Japanese government decides which medicines can be legally imported into Japan. The Japanese embassy and consulates in the United States provide limited information and do not have a complete list of specific drugs or ingredients. please see moreInformation on imported medicinesEnter Japan.
You must carry your US passport or Japanese Residence Card (Zairyu Kado) with you at all times. In Japan, if you do not have a passport or Japanese residence card to prove your identity and status in Japan (for example, as a visitor, student, worker, or permanent resident), you may be taken away for questioning.
It is illegal to work in Japan with tourist or visa-exempt status. Overstaying a visa or working illegally can result in fines of thousands of dollars and, in some cases, re-entry bans of up to 10 years, or even indefinitely for drug offenders. For more information, seeJapan Refugee Recognition and Immigration Control Lawand contactjapanese embassyor the nearest Japanese consulate in the United States for more information.
Laws on rape, sex trafficking, and other activities involving sexual intercourse do not apply to same-sex sexual relations. This definition leads to lighter penalties for perpetrators of male rape and makes same-sex prostitution laws more ambiguous.
DUI can also land you in jail right away. The blood alcohol limit in Japan is 0.03%. The penalty is a fine of up to $10,000 and imprisonment of up to 5 years.
Possession of firearms or ammunition is a crime in Japan. In Japan, it is illegal to carry a knife with a locking blade or folding blade longer than 5.5 centimeters (a little over two inches). US citizens and US military personnel were arrested and detained for more than 10 days for carrying pocket knives that are legal in the US but illegal in Japan. Possession of a lock picking tool is illegal in Japan.
AList of English speaking lawyerslocated throughout Japan can be found on our websitewebsite。
arrest notice: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or corrections officers to notify the US Embassy immediately. Please refer to the Department of StateWebsiteand the embassywebsiteGet more information.
Faith Based Travelers:Please see our following pages for more details:
Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report– View country reports
human rights report– View country reports
Information for Hajj Travelers
Best practices for volunteering abroad
LGBTQI+ Travelers:Japan has no legal restrictions on organizing same-sex relationships or LGBTI+ events.
SiurLGBTQI+ travel informationOur pages and Section 6human rights reportLearn more.
Passengers requiring accessibility assistance:While Japan's accessibility laws require that new construction projects for public use include facilities for people with disabilities, older buildings are less likely to be adapted for accessibility. At major train stations, airports and hotels, disabled travelers should not experience accessibility problems. Please note that many of the smaller stations are inaccessible to those who cannot climb stairs. For information on travel in Japan for travelers with disabilities, visit:accessibility Japan。
Travelers with disabilities can learn more about the resources available in the country through the website of the Japan National Tourism Organization.Disabled Travel Page。
student:look at ourforeign studentpage yFBI Travel Tips。
Female passengers:See our travel tipstraveling woman。
Conditions in prisons and detention centers:Japanese prisons and detention centers maintain internal order through a very strict disciplinary system. US citizen prisoners often complain about the harsh and austere living conditions and psychological isolation. Some facilities may be underheated in winter, food portions may be much smaller than many people are used to, and access to specialized medical care, especially mental health care, in detention centers and prisons is sometimes limited. additionalInformation about arrests in JapanAvailable on our embassy website.
Customs regulations:Contact the nearest Japanese Embassy or Japanese Consulate in the United States, orVisit the Japan Customs websiteSpecific information on import restrictions and customs requirements.
The Japanese customs authorities encourage the temporary importation of professional equipment, trade samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and trade shows into Japan using the Temporary Entry Card/Temporary Entry (ATA). For more information, call (212) 354-4480, orSend email to CIB USALearn more.
pet:JapanAnimal Quarantine Office(AQS) has established procedures for the importation of pets. The process takes at least seven to eight months, but it can take up to a year for pets to enter Japan. Advance planning is crucial. You can find more information atBringing pets to Japanor information aboutExport pets from Japanin ourEmbassy website.
Employment issues:US citizens should not come to Japan to work without prior arrangements for a suitable work visa. Teaching English (even in private) and hosting are considered "jobs" in Japan and are illegal without the proper visa.
Some US employment agencies and Japanese employers do not fully or correctly reflect the true nature of the terms and conditions of employment. The minimum requirement to seek effective protection under Japanese labor law is a written and signed employment contract. Without a signed contract, the Japanese authorities cannot act on behalf of foreign workers. If you are coming to Japan to work, please carefully review your contract and the history and reputation of your Japanese employer before you travel to Japan. Complaints against US employment agencies or recruiters may be directed toBetter Business OfficeOr the Attorney General's Office for that particular state.
Preparation:Japan is an area where natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, and landslides frequently occur. seeembassyA web page with tips and steps to prepare for an emergency. Japan Tourism OfficeSafety Tips AppyNHK World AppEmergency "J-Alerts" from the Japanese government are sent to your mobile phone in English via push notification. "J-Alerts" can provide early warning emergency alerts for predicted earthquakes in a specific area, sometimes seconds before an earthquake occurs.
Radiation: Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant:The Government of Japan continues to closely monitor the situation in and around the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. You will need to comply with all travel restrictions and precautions imposed by the Japanese government for the area surrounding the factory. For more information, contactJapan Nuclear Regulatory Agency。
FAQs
What do I write for purpose of visiting Japan? ›
Purpose of visit to Japan: If applying as a tourist, write TOURISM. If you're visiting a friend or family, write VISIT FRIEND/FAMILY. Intended length of stay in Japan: Number of days including the day of arrival. Port of entry into Japan: Name of the airport.
Will Japan open to international travel? ›Visa Free Travel for U.S. Citizen Tourists
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.
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.
Do I need a QR code to enter Japan? ›❷ 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.
How do you answer what is the purpose of your visit? ›There is no need to give any other information unless asked for it. I usually just say “On holiday”. Sometimes they ask what I plan to see or do and I answer truthfully, saying things like “shopping, sightseeing, beach or [whatever]”.
What do you write in the purpose of travel? ›Purpose of Your Trip
Your letter should directly state whether you intend to travel for work or recreation. You will need to be truthful regarding this, as the rest of your letter will include information that backs up this purpose. You should note that recreation can include any number of activities.
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.
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.
Has Japan lifted COVID restrictions? ›Japan is now open to travelers from all countries or regions. For more information, please check "COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan" page. Notice: All border measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 were lifted on April 29th, 2023.
What documents do I need before entering Japan? ›1 Required Documents to Enter Japan
Your valid visa and passport OR visa exempt passport. 2. Complete the customs and immigration procedures via Visit Japan Web OR complete the customs and immigration procedures by paper upon arrival to Japan. Visit Japan Web is a web service for smooth arrival procedure at airport.
What do you need before entering Japan? ›
For any issues using Visit Japan Web, see the instruction manual or make an inquiry directly. To enter Japan from the 29th of April, please enter with a valid visa and passport OR a visa exempt passport. We recommend the use of Visit Japan Web to assist with your customs and immigration declaration procedures.
Do I need PCR test to enter Japan? ›Yes, visa free tourism resumed October 11, 2022. Tourists with U.S. passports no longer need a visa to stay up to three months. Is a negative COVID-19 test required for entry? No.
Can a US citizen 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. It will soon be possible for US citizens to easily obtain a single-entry visa for tourism, once the upcoming eVisa for Japan has been implemented.
Which app is required for Japan travel? ›Find reliable information and navigation for your trip to Japan. “Japan Official Travel App” is the official smartphone app provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), delivering up-to-date information about traveling in Japan for a safe and comfortable journey.
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.
What questions to answer in a statement of purpose? ›"As a general rule, the two generic questions that need answering, at least inferentially, in most Statements of Purpose are: "Why are you interested in this program?", and "What makes you special?". This allows applicants the opportunity to provide Faculty substantive information about themselves.
What does answer the purpose mean? ›answer someone's purpose
to fit or suit someone's aim or goal.
Are Return Tickets Required? International travelers entering the US on a B-1 or B-2 visa are not required to have a return ticket when they arrive. However, they must show they have sufficient funds to support themselves as well as a reason to depart the US before their visa expires.
What should I write for travelling? ›- Be written in first-person.
- Tell the story in the past tense.
- Be conversational in tone (dialogue can be useful here)
- Contain sensory details.
- Give the reader value in some way, whether that's providing useful tips for navigating or insight into a culture.
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Japan. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Japan: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
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.
Why was Japan closed to foreigners? ›It is conventionally regarded that the shogunate imposed and enforced the sakoku policy in order to remove the colonial and religious influence of primarily Spain and Portugal, which were perceived as posing a threat to the stability of the shogunate and to peace in the archipelago.
Do you need a Covid test to enter Japan? ›(1) All travelers and returnees will no longer be required to submit either a certificate of negative result of COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours prior to departure, or a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate of three doses or equivalent.
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 much is a tourist visa for Japan? ›The fees for Japan visas are as follows: For a single-entry visa: 3,000 Yen. For a double-entry or multiple-entry visa: 6,000 Yen. For a transit visa: 700 Yen.
What is the best month to go to Japan? ›Japan is a year-round destination with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is the best time (also the peak time) to visit most of Japan for pleasant weather and cherry blossom, typically in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Is isolation required 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.
Which countries can enter Japan without visa? ›| Country | Country | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Monaco | New Zealand | Netherlands* |
| North Macedonia | Norway | Poland* |
| Portugal* | Romania* | San Marino |
| Serbia | Singapore | Slovakia* |
- 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.
- Rapid nicking enzyme amplification reaction (NEAR) Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) technology – ID Now by Abbott. Results < 1 hour.
- RAPID Automated RT-PCR, NAAT. Results < 2 hours.
- RT-PCR (NAAT). Results < 8 hours.
- RT-PCR (NAAT). Results < 24 hours.
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.
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.
When did Japan close its borders for COVID? ›In early 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic reached the shores of Japan, the country quickly closed its borders to any international travel of foreigners.
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 is the purpose of visit to Japan on visa? ›This page is for person(s) visiting Japan for the purpose of visiting relatives/friends, sightseeing, a business trip (not involving paid activities), attending a conference or meeting, or studying within 90 days.
What to write in the explanation letter for multiple entry Japan visa? ›My sample letter of explanation no ITR Japan visa
Dear Sir / Madam: I am writing this letter to show my intent to travel to Japan, and explain why I am unable to provide an Income Tax Return (ITR) as part of my Japan visa requirements. Thank you and hoping for your kind consideration.
- The Japanese Culture of Ukiyo-e and Ikebana. ...
- The Influence of Heavy Metal on Japanese Culture. ...
- Hip-Hop and the Japanese Culture. ...
- Political Economy and Culture in Japan. ...
- Influence of the Consumption Phenomenon on Japan's Social Culture.
Part of the Japan visa requirements is a cover letter which you have to write yourself and address it to the Embassy/Consulate. You should use the letter to introduce yourself, state the reason for your travel, dates when you intend to enter and depart, as well as a general itinerary of your stay.
What is the cost of a tourist visa for Japan for a US citizen? ›U.S. Embassy & Consulates. in Japan
These fee increases are effective as of June 17, 2023. The application fee for visitor visas for business or tourism (B1/B2s ), and other non-petition based NIVs such as student and exchange visitor visas, has increased from $160 to $185.
For a single-entry visa: 3,000 Yen. For a double-entry or multiple-entry visa: 6,000 Yen. For a transit visa: 700 Yen.
Why my Japan visa got denied? ›
Work Speculation. If the Embassy thinks you have no reasons for coming back, you might probably get denied for a Japan Visa. People who are unemployed and have no strong ties may be speculated. This is because the Embassy might think that you are they visit Japan for job hunting purposes, too.
What is the checklist for Japanese visa? ›- A clear photocopy of "Certificate for completion of registration to the ERFS system" is compulsory.
- Visa application form.
- Original Passport along with a photocopy of bio pages.
- Invitation letter.
- Guarantee letter.
- Schedule of stay.
- Declaration form.
- Last 3 months bank statement of Indian company.
This is a Single Entry visa, valid for stays up to 30 days Per Entry. You still need to visit the Japan embassy or consulate to submit your documents and pay the visa fees. However, applying is quick and easy with iVisa.
What are 3 unique facts about Japan? ›Japan consists of 6,852 islands. The islands were originally attached to the eastern coast of Asia, until tectonic activity caused them to split off, creating the Sea of Japan around 15 million years ago. The Japanese language orders words differently than we do in English.
What is most important about Japan? ›While its many traditions and cultural landmarks persist, Japan is also one of the leading economic and technological centres of the world. Ancient gods and traditional customs sit side by side with cutting edge technologies and trendy pop culture, and there is always something new to experience on a visit.
How long does it take to get Japan visa? ›Application Procedure & Processing Time
In general, it takes 5 business days to issue a visa. (ex., If you apply on Monday, you can pick up a visa next Monday. Our holidays are not counted as business days.) It may take more than one month depending on the visa.
- Hold a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and 2 blank pages.
- A completed visa application form.
- Provide a recent color passport photo and a certified copy of your birth certificate.
- If married, submit a marriage certificate (if issued within the last year.