1/3/2007

For those of you who are planning to visit Japan or are planning to migrate there would save a lot of time finding out relevent information on the type of visa required for your entry. Personally, as a person who has been to two different continents, I find that it is perhaps the number one priority instead of thinking about what to wear or what to pack to go. This is a simple guide for those who would like to travel to Japan. For more detailed information, you will need to contact your local Japanese embassy.

First off, you need know if your country needs a visa for entry. Different countries have different requirements. Here’s a link from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where you can find out if you need a visa to enter Japan based on your nationality.

Secondly, you need to check that your passport is valid and that it is not expiring soon. Without a valid passport, you’re just as good as duck without wings.

Thirdly, you will need to check out which visa applies to you. If you’re going there for a visit, work, as a diplomat or long term stay - there is a visa for each. But in all, there are 7 types of visas in Japan as shown below:-

Categories of Visa and Status of Residence

* Statuses of residence not permitting work.
+ Whether work is permitted or not depends on the content of individual permits.

Source (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Related articles: Japan Guide:Coming to Japan