Chinese citizens need an embassy visa before travelling to Japan.

• Government / consular fee Set by the embassy or consulate. It varies by visa type, number of entries and your nationality.
• Visa centre service fee Charged by the application centre (such as VFS Global) on top of the government fee.
• Courier, SMS & biometrics Optional extras such as passport return by courier are billed separately.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

• PassportOriginal passport valid for the entire period of stay in Japan, with at least two blank pages.
• Visa Application FormCompleted and signed application form. Available from the Japanese Embassy/Consulate website.
• PhotographOne recent passport-sized photograph (4.5cm x 4.5cm), taken within the last 6 months, with a plain background.
• Household Registration (Hukou)Original and photocopy of the applicant's Hukou (household registration booklet).
• Itinerary in JapanDetailed daily itinerary including accommodation details (hotel bookings) and planned activities.
• Proof of Financial CapabilityBank statements for the last 6 months, certificate of employment, and/or other documents proving sufficient funds to cover travel expenses.
• Round-trip Flight ReservationConfirmed flight bookings showing entry and exit from Japan.
• Certificate of Employment/Student StatusFor employed individuals, a letter from the employer stating position, salary, and leave approval. For students, a certificate of enrollment from the school.
• Invitation Letter and Guarantee Letter (if applicable)If invited by a Japanese resident or organization, these documents may be required from the inviter/guarantor.

1. 1
   Gather all required documents as specified by the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your jurisdiction. Ensure all forms are accurately filled and signed.
2. 2
   Submit your application to the Japanese Embassy, Consulate, or an authorized visa application center in China. Some jurisdictions may require appointments.

   MOFA Japan - Embassies and Consulates in China
3. 3
   Pay the visa application fee at the time of submission (if applicable). Fees are subject to change and should be confirmed with the specific embassy/consulate.
4. 4
   Wait for the application to be processed. Processing times can vary, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
5. 5
   Collect your passport with the visa (if approved) from the submission center or as instructed by the embassy/consulate.

• Incomplete or inconsistent documentation

  How to avoid: Ensure all required documents are submitted, forms are fully completed, and information provided is consistent across all documents. Double-check for any missing signatures or fields.

• Insufficient proof of financial capability

  How to avoid: Provide clear and sufficient evidence that you can financially support yourself throughout your stay in Japan without resorting to illegal work. This includes recent bank statements, employment certificates, and income proof.

• Unclear or questionable purpose of visit

  How to avoid: Clearly state your purpose of visit and provide a detailed, realistic itinerary. Any discrepancies or vague explanations about your travel plans can lead to suspicion.

• Weak ties to home country

  How to avoid: Demonstrate strong ties to China (e.g., stable employment, family, property ownership) to assure the authorities that you intend to return after your visit. Provide relevant supporting documents.

• Previous immigration violations or criminal record

  How to avoid: Ensure you have no history of overstaying visas, illegal employment, or criminal offenses in Japan or other countries, as this will likely result in visa refusal.

• Passport validity issues

  How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Japan and has sufficient blank pages for the visa stamp.

• Always carry your passport or a copy of it, as foreign nationals are required to have identification at all times.
• Be mindful of local customs and etiquette, such as bowing, removing shoes indoors, and not tipping.
• Japan has a highly efficient public transportation system; consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan extensive travel between cities.
• Cash is still widely used, especially in smaller establishments, so it's advisable to carry some Japanese Yen.

• Can I extend my temporary visitor visa while in Japan?

  Generally, temporary visitor visas for tourism or visiting relatives are not extendable. If you have a compelling reason, you must apply for an extension at an immigration office in Japan, but approval is rare and not guaranteed.

• Can I work in Japan with a tourist visa?

  No, a temporary visitor visa (tourist visa) does not permit any form of employment or paid activities in Japan. Engaging in such activities is a violation of visa conditions.

• What happens if my passport expires soon after my trip?

  Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Japan. It is strongly recommended to have a passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date to avoid any potential issues.

• Can I apply for a multiple-entry visa?

  Yes, Chinese citizens may be eligible for a multiple-entry temporary visitor visa under specific conditions, such as having a certain income level or a history of frequent travel to Japan. The requirements are stricter than for a single-entry visa.

• My passport expires in 5 months - can I still apply for Japan?

  Japanese tourist visa applications generally require your passport to have sufficient validity beyond your intended stay. It is advisable to check the specific validity requirements with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in China before applying. If your passport has less than six months validity, renewing it before application is often recommended to avoid potential issues.

• How much money do I need to show in my bank account for a Japanese tourist visa?

  You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your travel and living expenses in Japan, though there isn't a fixed minimum amount. You will typically need to provide recent bank statements or a certificate of deposit as proof of financial stability. The Japanese Embassy or Consulate in China can provide detailed guidance on acceptable financial documentation.

• I am self-employed in China, what documents do I need for a Japanese tourist visa?

  As a self-employed applicant, you will need to provide documentation proving your business's existence and financial stability, such as a business license, tax records, and recent bank statements. You should also submit a letter explaining your employment status and income. Consult the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in China for a complete list of required documents for self-employed individuals.

• I want to travel to Japan next month, is that enough time to get a visa?

  Visa processing times for Chinese citizens applying for a Japanese tourist visa can vary, so applying well in advance of your intended travel date is recommended. While some applications may be processed quickly, it is not guaranteed, and delays can occur. You should check the current processing times with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in China.

• I am travelling to Japan with my child, what extra documents do I need for their visa?

  When traveling with a child, you will typically need to provide their birth certificate and a copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable). If the child is traveling with only one parent, additional documentation proving sole custody or the other parent's permission may be required. Always confirm the specific requirements with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in China.

• How much does a Japan visa cost for Chinese citizens?

  There are usually two or three separate charges, and people often confuse them. Government / consular fee: Set by the embassy or consulate. It varies by visa type, number of entries and your nationality. Visa centre service fee: Charged by the application centre (such as VFS Global) on top of the government fee. Courier, SMS & biometrics: Optional extras such as passport return by courier are billed separately. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.

• Do I need a separate visa for Tokyo, or does this cover all of Japan?

  You do not need a separate visa for any individual city. Entry rules are set nationally, not city by city, so a Japan visa is valid for the whole country — including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Mount Fuji. Apply once for Japan and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.