Japan Visa Requirements
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to apply for anything before I travel to Japan?
No — with a United Kingdom passport, you don't need to apply for a visa or authorisation before flying to Japan. Just make sure your passport itself is valid and, if you have one, bring proof of your onward or return travel in case you're asked.
Can I extend my stay in Japan once I'm there?
Yes. You can apply from inside Japan to stay longer, and you must do it before your current permission runs out. The official fee is ¥10,000. Under a bilateral agreement with Japan, your nationality may extend a 90-day Temporary Visitor stay by a further 90 days, to 180 days in total. This is not automatic and is decided by the Regional Immigration Bureau. From 1 October 2026, ¥10,000 for a period of up to 3 months, replacing the previous flat ¥6,000. Apply at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau nearest your address before your current permission expires, with an explanatory letter, proof of accommodation and an onward ticket. Most other nationalities cannot extend at all except for documented unavoidable circumstances, so confirm your own eligibility rather than relying on general guidance.
Is the information on this page guaranteed to be accurate?
We check what we publish against official sources where we can, and clearly flag anything still pending verification. Even so, visa rules change — sometimes with very little notice — so please treat this page as a strong starting point, not a final word, and confirm directly with the official source linked above before you book or fly.
Before you travel — checklist
- Check your passport has enough remaining validity for your trip to Japan — many countries require at least 6 months beyond your travel dates, even for visa-free entry.
- Note this specific requirement for Japan: Visitors can travel to Japan for tourism or business for up to 90 days. A visa is given on arrival, and you do not need to apply before you travel. The Japan immigration authorities may extend your visa by another 90 days at their discretion. You will need to apply for an extension..
- Check whether Japan requires proof of onward or return travel — some border officers ask for this even when it isn't formally listed as a requirement.
- Consider travel insurance that covers your trip to Japan, particularly if any medical or emergency evacuation coverage is required or advisable for the region.
- This page's details for Japan are still pending full verification — confirm everything directly with an official government source before finalising your plans.
Visa rules change — sometimes with very little notice. This page reflects our best information as of 2026, but if you're reading this later than that, treat it as a starting point rather than the final word, and always confirm with the official source above before you travel.