Russian 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We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none.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 on the Embassy/Consulate website.
• PhotographOne recent passport-sized photograph (4.5cm x 3.5cm), taken within the last 6 months, white background.
• Flight ItineraryConfirmed round-trip flight tickets or booking confirmation showing entry and exit from Japan.
• Accommodation DetailsProof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or a letter from a host in Japan.
• Daily ItineraryDetailed daily schedule of activities in Japan (e.g., places to visit, dates).
• Proof of Financial MeansBank statements, salary certificates, or other documents proving sufficient funds to cover expenses during the stay in Japan. If a guarantor is sponsoring, their financial documents and a letter of guarantee are required.
• Letter of Guarantee (if applicable)If a guarantor in Japan is covering expenses, a letter of guarantee and their financial documents are needed.
• Invitation Letter (if applicable)If visiting friends or relatives, an invitation letter from the host in Japan.

1. 1
   Gather all required documents as specified by the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Russia for your specific visa type.
2. 2
   Complete the visa application form accurately. The form can usually be downloaded from the official website of the Embassy of Japan in Russia.

   Embassy of Japan in Russia - Visa Information
3. 3
   Schedule an appointment at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Russia, if required, or visit during designated submission hours. Check the specific procedures for your jurisdiction.
4. 4
   Submit your application in person along with all original documents and copies. Be prepared for an interview if requested.
5. 5
   Pay the visa fee at the time of application or collection, as instructed by the Embassy/Consulate. Fees are subject to change and vary by visa type and nationality.
6. 6
   Collect your passport with the visa stamp once the application has been processed.

• Incomplete or inconsistent documentation.

  How to avoid: Ensure all required documents are submitted, and information across all documents (e.g., dates, names) is consistent and accurate. Double-check the Embassy's checklist.

• Insufficient proof of financial means.

  How to avoid: Provide clear and verifiable evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover all your expenses during your stay in Japan without working. Bank statements should show adequate balance and activity.

• Unclear or questionable purpose of visit.

  How to avoid: Present a clear and detailed itinerary that aligns with a genuine tourist visit. Avoid vague statements and be prepared to explain your travel plans convincingly.

• Lack of strong ties to home country.

  How to avoid: Demonstrate strong reasons to return to Russia, such as employment, family responsibilities, property ownership, or ongoing studies. This assures the authorities you will not overstay.

• Previous visa violations or criminal record.

  How to avoid: Ensure you have no history of overstaying visas, violating immigration laws in any country, or a criminal record. Such history can severely impact future visa applications.

• Passport not meeting requirements.

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

• Always carry your passport with you; it is legally required for foreign nationals.
• Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette, such as bowing and removing shoes indoors.
• Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan extensive train travel, but note it must be purchased outside Japan.
• Cash is still widely used, especially in smaller establishments, so have some Japanese Yen available.

• Can I extend my Temporary Visitor Visa while in Japan?

  Extensions for Temporary Visitor Visas are generally difficult to obtain and are only granted under exceptional circumstances by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. It is advisable to plan your stay carefully within the granted period.

• Is it possible to work in Japan on a Temporary Visitor Visa?

  No, a Temporary Visitor Visa does not permit any remunerative activities in Japan. Engaging in work or paid activities is a violation of visa conditions and can lead to deportation.

• What is the passport validity requirement for Japan?

  Your passport should be valid for the entire period of your intended stay in Japan. While some countries require 6 months validity beyond the stay, Japan typically requires validity for the duration of your visit.

• Can I apply for a multiple-entry visa for tourism?

  Yes, Russian citizens may be eligible for a multiple-entry temporary visitor visa under certain conditions, such as having a history of travel to Japan or meeting specific financial criteria. The decision is at the discretion of the Embassy/Consulate.

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

  The Japanese Embassy generally requires your passport to be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Japan. While there isn't a strict 6-month rule for Russian citizens applying for a tourist visa, it is highly recommended to have a passport with ample validity beyond your planned departure date. You should confirm the exact validity requirements with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Russia before applying.

• I was refused a visa for another country before, will this affect my Japan visa application?

  A previous visa refusal for another country does not automatically lead to a refusal for a Japanese visa. However, you are generally required to declare any previous visa refusals on your application form. The Japanese Embassy will assess your application based on its own criteria and your current circumstances.

• What kind of bank statements do I need to show for my Japan visa?

  For a Japanese tourist visa, you typically need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your travel and living expenses in Japan. This usually includes recent bank statements or a certificate of balance from your bank. The specific amount required can vary, so it is essential to check the latest requirements on the official website of the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Russia.

• My trip is in 3 weeks, is that enough time to get a Japanese visa?

  Visa processing times for Russian citizens applying for a Japanese tourist visa can vary, especially during peak seasons. While some applications may be processed quickly, it is generally advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date. You should consult the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in Russia for their current estimated processing times to ensure you have enough time.

• I am self-employed, what documents do I need for my Japan tourist visa?

  If you are self-employed, you will need to provide documents that demonstrate your financial stability and ties to Russia. This typically includes a certificate of state registration as an individual entrepreneur, tax declarations, and bank statements showing sufficient funds. Ensure all documents are translated into English or Japanese if required by the embassy.

• How much does a Japan visa cost for Russian 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.