1. What is the Japan Visa Waiver Program?

The Japan Visa Waiver Program is a system that allows citizens of certain countries to enter Japan for tourism or business purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. This program aims to promote travel and strengthen diplomatic relations between Japan and these countries.

2. Which countries are included in the Japan Visa Waiver Program?

As of February 2021, there are 68 countries eligible for the Japan Visa Waiver Program, including most European countries, North American countries, and several Asian and South American countries. A full list can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

3. How long can I stay in Japan under the Visa Waiver Program?

Under this program, you can stay in Japan for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. This period cannot be extended and you must leave the country before it expires.

4. Can I work or study while on a visa waiver?

No, the visa waiver is strictly for tourism or business activities. If you wish to work or study in Japan, you will need to obtain an appropriate visa before entering the country.

5. How many times can I use the Visa Waiver Program?

There is no limit on how many times you can use the Visa Waiver Program as long as each visit is limited to 90 days and you meet all other requirements for entry into Japan.

6. Is there any cost associated with using the Visa Waiver Program?

No, there is no fee for using the Visa Waiver Program itself. However, travelers may still need to pay fees associated with their trip such as transportation, accommodations, and activities.

7. Are there any restrictions on using the Visa Waiver Program?

Yes, there are a few restrictions that apply when using this program:

– You must have a valid passport from one of the eligible countries.
– Your purpose of travel must be either tourism (sightseeing) or business activities (such as attending meetings, negotiations, or conferences).
– You must have a confirmed return or onward ticket to a destination outside of Japan.
– Your stay must be for no more than 90 days and you cannot extend your stay.
– You cannot work or study while in Japan.
– You must meet all other immigration requirements, such as having enough funds for your trip and not having a criminal record.

8. Can I enter Japan under the Visa Waiver Program multiple times in one year?

Yes, you can use the Visa Waiver Program multiple times in one year as long as each visit is for no more than 90 days and you have met all other entry requirements.

9. Can I apply for a different type of visa while on the Visa Waiver Program?

No, you cannot change your status from visa waiver to any other type of visa while in Japan. If you wish to work or study in Japan, you will need to leave the country before your 90-day stay expires and apply for the appropriate visa from your home country.

10. How do I know if I am eligible for the Japan Visa Waiver Program?

You can check the eligibility requirements on the website of the Embassy of Japan in your home country or by contacting your nearest Japanese consulate or embassy. Each country may have slightly different requirements so it is best to confirm with official sources before making travel plans.

2. Which countries are eligible for the Japan Visa Waiver Program?

The following countries are eligible for the Japan Visa Waiver Program:

1. United States
2. Canada
3. Australia
4. New Zealand
5. Mexico
6. Argentina
7. Bahamas
8. Barbados
9. Brazil
10. Chile

11. Colombia
12. Costa Rica
13. Dominican Republic
14. El Salvador
15. Guatemala
16. Honduras
17. Suriname
18. Jamaica
19. Peru
20.Armenia

21.Azerbaijan
22.Bahamas
23.Barbados, Belarus, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, China (incl.Hong Kong and Macau), Cyprus, Czech Republic,
24.Croatia, Dominica,El Salvador,Estonia,Fiji, Georgia,Haiti,Hong Kong,Kazakhstan

25.Kiribati Latvia Lithuania Macedonia Marshall Islands Micronesia Moldova Montenegro Nauru Palau Panama Paraguay Peru Poland Qatar Romania Russia Serbia Slovakia Solomon Islands Taiwan Tuvalu Ukraine Uruguay

3. How long can I stay in Japan under the Visa Waiver Program?

The maximum duration of stay under the Visa Waiver Program is 90 days.

4. Can I extend my stay in Japan under the Visa Waiver Program?

No, the Visa Waiver Program has a maximum stay of 90 days. If you would like to stay longer in Japan, you will need to obtain a different type of visa that allows for a longer stay.

5. Do I need to apply for a visa before travelling to Japan under the Visa Waiver Program?

Yes, you need to register for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before travelling to Japan. The ESTA is a mandatory requirement under the Visa Waiver Program and must be obtained online at least 72 hours before departure. It is not a visa, but it determines eligibility for entry into Japan under the program.

6. Can I work or study in Japan on a Visa Waiver?

Visa Waiver is only for visa-free entry to Japan for short-term stays, and does not allow you to work or study in the country. If you plan on working or studying in Japan, you will need to obtain the appropriate visa before entering the country.

7. Is there a maximum number of times that I can enter Japan under the Visa Waiver Program?

No, there is no maximum number of times that you can enter Japan under the Visa Waiver Program. However, each entry is valid for a maximum stay of 90 days and you must meet the eligibility requirements for each entry, such as having a valid passport and return ticket. Additionally, frequent or long-term visits to Japan under the Visa Waiver Program may raise suspicion and could result in a denial of entry. It is recommended to have appropriate documentation and a legitimate reason for your visit each time you enter Japan.

8. Do I need to show proof of funds or a return ticket when entering Japan on a visa waiver?

No, as a visa waiver holder, you are not required to show proof of funds or a return ticket when entering Japan. However, it is recommended to have these documents with you in case the immigration officer asks for them.

9. Can I enter and exit through different airports/entry points in Japan on a visa waiver?

Yes, you are able to enter and exit through different airports or entry points in Japan on a visa waiver. However, it is important to note that the visa waiver is only valid for a single entry. If you plan on leaving and re-entering Japan during your stay, you will need to obtain a multiple-entry visa prior to your trip.

10.Do children also need to apply for a visa waiver?

It depends on the country they are traveling to and their nationality. Some countries allow children to enter on their parent’s visa waiver, while others require individual applications for children as well. It is best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are traveling to for specific requirements.

11.What is the difference between a tourist visa and a visa waiver for Japan?

There are several differences between a tourist visa and a visa waiver for Japan:

1) Eligibility: A tourist visa is required for citizens of countries that do not have a visa waiver agreement with Japan. Citizens of countries that have a visa waiver agreement can enter Japan without a tourist visa.

2) Length of stay: A tourist visa can be valid for different periods of time, depending on the applicant’s country and purpose of travel. The typical length of stay is 15, 30, or 90 days. The visa waiver program allows eligible citizens to stay in Japan for up to 90 days.

3) Application process: A tourist visa requires an application to be submitted at a Japanese embassy or consulate before traveling. A visa waiver does not require an application, but travelers must have a valid passport and complete an arrival card upon entry to Japan.

4) Cost: Tourist visas typically have a fee, which varies depending on the applicant’s country. Visa waivers do not have any fees associated with them.

5) Extensions: Tourist visas can be extended if necessary, while the maximum period allowed under the visa waiver program cannot be extended.

6) Multiple entries: Some tourist visas allow multiple entries within their validity period, while the standard visa waiver only allows single entry.

7) Permitted activities: Tourist visas usually have restrictions on what types of activities or work can be performed during the visit, while those entering under the visa waiver program are generally restricted from working in Japan.

12.Can I travel to other countries after visiting Japan on a visa waiver?

It depends on your nationality and the specific terms of the visa waiver program. Some countries only allow you to visit Japan for a certain period of time before requiring you to leave, while others may allow multiple entries within a certain time frame. It is best to check with the Japanese immigration authorities or consulate in your home country to confirm the conditions of your specific visa waiver.

13.How far in advance should I apply for a visa waiver for my trip to Japan?

It is recommended to apply for a visa waiver at least 1-2 months in advance of your trip to Japan. This will allow enough time for any potential delays or issues with your application, and ensure that you have the necessary documents and approvals before your departure date. It is also important to note that the processing time for visa waivers can vary depending on the type of visa and current workload at the embassy or consulate. Therefore, it is best to plan ahead and apply as early as possible to avoid any complications with your travel plans.

14.Is it possible to change my status from a visitor on a visa waiver to another type of residency while in Japan?

Yes, it is possible to change your status from a visitor on a visa waiver to another type of residency while in Japan. However, the process and requirements vary depending on the type of residency you are applying for. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or visit the nearest immigration office for more information on how to change your status.

15.What are the restrictions on activities allowed under the Visa Waiver Program?

According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), travelers under the Visa Waiver Program are allowed to engage in the following activities:

1. Business: Attending conferences, meetings, or consultations; negotiating contracts; engaging in business transactions; attending trade shows and exhibitions.

2. Tourism: Visiting friends or family, participating in organized tours, visiting tourist attractions.

3. Vacation: Taking a temporary vacation for sightseeing, recreational activities, rest, relaxation.

4. Medical treatment: Seeking medical treatment for an illness or injury.

5. Short-term study: Enrolling in short courses of study that do not award credit towards a degree or academic program.

6. Transit: Traveling through the United States to another country.

These activities must only be carried out while in lawful nonimmigrant status and should not involve employment or any type of remuneration from a U.S. source.

16.What happens if my country is not part of the Visa Waiver Program, can I still visit Japan without applying for a traditional visa?

If your country is not part of the Visa Waiver Program, you will need to apply for a traditional visa in order to visit Japan. The only exception is if you hold a permanent residency or long-term resident status in certain eligible countries, in which case you may be exempt from needing a visa for short-term visits. It is recommended that you check with your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for specific visa requirements and application processes.

17.Is there an age limit for using the Visa Waiver Program?

Yes, travelers must be at least 18 years old to use the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Children and infants must also have their own individual electronic passports to travel under the VWP. Additionally, adults over the age of 80 are required to obtain a visa for travel to the United States.

18.Can I use multiple passports when entering/exiting through immigration on a visa waiver?

No, it is not recommended to use multiple passports when entering or exiting through immigration on a visa waiver. This may cause confusion and suspicion at the border, and could result in difficulties or delays in your travel plans. It is important to always use the same passport for international travel and ensure that it is valid for the duration of your stay.

19.Are there any special requirements or documents needed for travelers with dual citizenship applying for a Japanese visa waiver?

Yes, dual citizens applying for a Japanese visa waiver may need to submit additional documents such as proof of their dual citizenship and travel itinerary. They may also be required to provide documentation showing the reason for their visit and their intention to return to their country of residence. Additionally, they may need to provide a valid passport from both countries and proof of funds for their trip. It is recommended to check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements for dual citizens.

20.What should I do if my application for entry under the Visa Waiver Program is denied at immigration control?

If your application for entry under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is denied at immigration control, you will not be allowed to enter the United States. You may be detained while waiting for a flight back to your country of origin or you may be held in an immigration detention center until arrangements can be made for you to leave the country.

In this situation, you should remain calm and cooperative with immigration officials. You have the right to contact the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country if you need assistance or advice.

You should also comply with any instructions given by immigration officials and provide them with any necessary documentation or information that they request. If there are specific reasons why your VWP application was denied, make sure to note them down and take steps to address them before attempting to enter the US again in the future.

It is also important to inform your family and/or friends about your situation so that they can help make necessary arrangements for your return journey. It may be helpful to keep copies of important documents such as your passport and identification card in case they are needed during this process.

Lastly, it is recommended that you seek legal advice from an immigration lawyer if you have any concerns or questions about your situation. They can provide guidance on how best to handle the situation and what steps to take next.