Visa length

  • Tourist Visa (Short-Term Stay Visa): Allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, or visiting family.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Typically valid for 6 months to 5 years, depending on visa type (e.g., work, student, dependent visa).
  • Permanent Residence Visa: Grants indefinite stay with no renewal required.

Visa cost

  • Tourist Visa: Costs approximately $28 to $56, depending on single or multiple entry.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Costs range from $28 to $56, depending on visa type.
  • Permanent Residence Visa: Application fee is approximately $56.

Visa extension

  • Tourist Visa: Cannot typically be extended except in extraordinary cases.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Renewable based on visa type and eligibility.
  • Permanent Residence Visa: Does not require renewal.

Visa processing time

  • Tourist Visa: Processing takes approximately 5 to 15 days.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Processing takes 1 to 3 months.
  • Permanent Residence Visa: Processing takes approximately 6 months to 1 year.

Who can apply?

  • Tourist Visa: Citizens of countries requiring a visa for short visits to Japan.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Individuals staying in Japan for work, study, business, or family reunification.
  • Permanent Residence Visa: Those who have legally resided in Japan for 10 years (or 3-5 years for highly skilled professionals or spouses of Japanese citizens).

Where to apply?

Applications can be submitted at Japanese embassies, consulates, or the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

How to apply:

  1. Complete the visa application form.
  2. Gather required documents (passport, photos, proof of income, sponsorship letters, etc.).
  3. Pay the visa or permit fee.
  4. Schedule an appointment (if necessary) for biometrics and interviews.
  5. Wait for processing and receive approval.

Minimum income requirements

  • Tourist visas do not have specific financial requirements.
  • Temporary Residence Visa applicants must prove sufficient income for living expenses, varying by visa type.
  • Permanent Residence Visa applicants must demonstrate financial stability with a stable income of at least $25,000 annually.

Popular cities

  • Tokyo – The capital city, known for its technology and vibrant culture.
  • Osaka – A major economic hub with famous street food.
  • Kyoto – Renowned for its temples and traditional culture.
  • Fukuoka – A growing city with a strong business environment.
  • Sapporo – Known for its winter festivals and scenic landscapes.

Minimum income requirements

  • Japanese – The official language spoken nationwide.
  • English – Limited proficiency, mainly in tourist areas and business sectors.

Average internet speeds

  • Fixed broadband: Average download speed of approximately 200 Mbps.
  • Mobile internet: Average download speed of around 50 Mbps.