Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens: Japan
Note: Entry rules can change with little notice. Confirm with the Embassy of Japan in the United States or the U.S. Department of State before traveling.
Passport & Visa Requirements
- Passport validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Japan (six months recommended by airlines).
- Blank pages: At least one blank page is required for entry and exit stamps.
- Visa requirement: U.S. citizens can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or visiting friends/family.
- Visa extensions: Not available for short-term stays. Travelers wishing to stay longer must depart and apply for a long-term visa from outside Japan.
Entry Procedures
- Proof of onward/return ticket: Not always requested, but travelers should carry proof of onward or return travel.
- Arrival procedures: Travelers must present a completed arrival card and customs declaration form upon entry.
- Visit Japan Web: Travelers are encouraged (but not required) to pre-register their arrival information through the Visit Japan Web system to speed up immigration and customs processing.
Health & Vaccinations
- Routine vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry from the U.S.
- Yellow fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
- COVID-19: There are no COVID-related entry requirements (no proof of vaccination or testing as of 2025).
Traveling with Minors
- Parental authorization: No special entry requirements exist, but a notarized parental consent letter is recommended if a minor is traveling alone or with only one parent.
Additional Restrictions & Considerations
- Currency declaration: Travelers must declare if carrying more than ¥1,000,000 JPY (or equivalent) when entering or leaving Japan.
- Security advisory: The U.S. Department of State lists Japan as Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.
- Length of stay: Staying beyond 90 days without authorization can result in fines, detention, and deportation.
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