Do you need an entry card for Japan?
Japan does not use a simple arrival card system in the same way as some other destinations. Instead, many travelers can use Visit Japan Web to prepare arrival procedures online before entering Japan.
Visit Japan Web can be used for immigration procedures, customs declaration and related arrival steps. It does not replace a visa when a visa is required.
For a full explanation of the online arrival process, read the dedicated Visit Japan Web guide.
Visit Japan Web overview
Visit Japan Web is the official online service used to prepare arrival procedures for Japan. It allows travelers to register information for immigration and customs before arrival.
The service can help reduce paperwork and make the arrival process clearer, especially at major international airports.
Travelers should use the official Japanese government website when submitting personal information and avoid unofficial websites that may charge unnecessary fees.
Japan eVisa overview
The Japan eVisa is the official electronic visa system managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan for eligible travelers.
Foreign nationals who need a visa for short-term tourism may be able to apply online through the Japan eVisa system, depending on nationality, residence and current eligibility rules.
The Japan eVisa is different from Visit Japan Web. The eVisa is a visa authorization, while Visit Japan Web is used for arrival procedures such as immigration and customs information.
Visa exemption and length of stay
Entry conditions for Japan depend on your nationality, passport type, travel purpose and planned length of stay. Some travelers can enter Japan under a short-term visa exemption, while others need a visa before travel.
Japan has visa exemption arrangements with many countries and regions for short-term stays, but the permitted stay and conditions can vary.
Visit Japan Web does not extend your stay and does not replace a visa. Always check your permitted length of stay before booking long accommodation plans or onward travel.
Passport validity and travel documents
Before traveling to Japan, check that your passport is valid for your trip and accepted by your airline. Airlines may check your passport, visa status, onward ticket and travel documents before boarding.
You may also be asked about your accommodation address, return or onward travel, purpose of visit and contact details in Japan.
Make sure that all information submitted online matches your passport exactly, especially your name, passport number, nationality, date of birth and travel dates.
Arrival by air or sea
Japan receives travelers through international airports and seaports. The entry process can vary depending on your route, nationality, visa status and port of arrival.
If you use Visit Japan Web, check that your arrival airport or port supports the relevant online procedures. Do not assume that every entry point offers the same process.
Always check the latest official guidance before your trip, especially if you are entering Japan by sea or through a less common route.
Customs declaration for Japan
Travelers entering Japan may need to complete a customs declaration. Visit Japan Web can be used to prepare customs-related information online before arrival.
You should declare goods accurately and follow Japanese customs rules for restricted items, cash, medicines, food products and commercial goods.
Customs rules are separate from visa rules. Having a visa or visa exemption does not remove customs declaration obligations.
Official links for entering Japan
Use official Japanese government websites when checking entry requirements, using Visit Japan Web or applying for a Japan eVisa.
The official Visit Japan Web website is linked from this site for convenience, but travelers should always verify the domain before entering passport details, travel information or payment information.
Be careful with unofficial websites that look official, charge extra fees or provide unclear visa and arrival support services.
Common mistakes before traveling to Japan
Common mistakes include assuming that Visit Japan Web is a visa, forgetting to check visa exemption rules, applying through unofficial websites, entering passport details incorrectly, or failing to prepare accommodation and customs information before departure.
Prepare your passport, visa status, Visit Japan Web information, accommodation address, arrival date, contact details and onward travel information before departure.