If you’re a national from a country that does not have a visa exemption agreement with Japan, such as India or the Philippines, applying for a short-term visa is essential. This guide will walk you through the application process, the required documents, and other key points you need to know to ensure a successful visa application.
Who Needs a Short-Term Visa?
Japan has visa exemption agreements with countries like the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, and many European countries. Nationals from these countries do not need a visa for short stays, typically up to 90 days, and can enter Japan for tourism, business meetings, or family visits without pre-arranged paperwork. However, nationals from India, the Philippines, and other non-exempt countries will need to apply for a short-term visa to enter Japan.
Key Visa Types:
The short-term visa (sometimes called a “Temporary Visitor Visa”) allows individuals to enter Japan for the following purposes:
- Tourism
- Visiting friends or family
- Attending business meetings or conferences
It does not allow employment in Japan or participation in paid work activities.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
The short-term visa application requires coordination between the applicant (who is outside Japan) and a sponsor (or guarantor) who resides in Japan. Here is the step-by-step process, divided into actions required by both the applicant and the sponsor.
1. Documents Required by the Applicant (Outside Japan)
As the applicant, you’ll need to prepare the following:
- Visa Application Form: Complete the official visa application form available on the Japanese Embassy website.
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and has blank visa pages.
- Passport-Sized Photo: A recent photo with specific dimensions (typically 4.5cm x 4.5cm).
- Flight Itinerary: Proof of your travel arrangements, including confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, income tax returns, or proof of employment to demonstrate you can financially support your stay.
- Invitation Letter: If you are visiting a family member or friend, you’ll need an invitation letter from your contact in Japan.
- Proof of Relationship: For family visits, provide documents such as a birth certificate or family register proving your relationship with your host.
- Visa Fees: The visa application fee, usually ranging from ¥3,000 to ¥6,000, depending on nationality.
2. Documents to be Collected by the Sponsor in Japan
The sponsor or guarantor in Japan will need to provide additional documentation to support your application:
- Letter of Guarantee: This is a formal document from your sponsor ensuring that they will be responsible for your expenses and well-being during your stay in Japan.
- Invitation Letter: This document details the purpose of your visit and provides assurance that your stay in Japan will follow legal requirements.
- Schedule of Stay: A detailed itinerary outlining your activities in Japan, including travel dates, accommodation details, and planned activities.
- Residence Certificate (Juminhyo): Proof that your sponsor is a legal resident of Japan, issued by their local city office.
- Proof of Employment or Financial Stability: The sponsor must show proof of employment or financial stability, such as bank statements or a tax certificate, ensuring they can support your visit.
3. Submission of Application
Once both the applicant and sponsor have gathered the necessary documents, Submit to the Japanese Embassy: The applicant submits all documents, including those provided by the sponsor, to the Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country. Make sure to allow enough time for the visa to be processed, as it can take anywhere from 5 days to several weeks depending on the embassy.
4. Visa Fees
Fees vary depending on your nationality. For Indian and Filipino nationals, the short-term visa fee is typically around ¥3,000 to ¥6,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my Short-Term Visa?
Visa extensions are generally not allowed unless you encounter unexpected emergencies, such as medical reasons. Applications for extensions must be submitted to the local immigration office in Japan.
Can I work while on a Short-Term Visa?
No, you cannot work for a Japanese company on a short-term visa. However, remote work for an overseas employer is allowed. Ensure you do not engage in any local paid work while in Japan.
Can I change from a Short-Term Visa to a Work Visa?
In most cases, you cannot switch from a short-term visa to a work visa without leaving Japan. For more details, visit Changing from Short-Term to Work Visa.
Can I change from a Short-Term Visa to a Spouse Visa?
Changing from a short-term visa to a spouse visa is typically not allowed unless there are special humanitarian reasons. For more details, visit Changing from Short-Term to Spouse Visa.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying your visa can result in deportation, fines, and a future ban on re-entering Japan. Always ensure you leave the country before your visa expires.
Conclusion
While applying for a short-term visa to Japan involves multiple steps and coordination between the applicant and sponsor, careful preparation will ensure the process runs smoothly. If you’re planning to visit Japan for tourism, business, or a family visit, make sure to gather all necessary documents early and follow the instructions carefully.
For further assistance or to ensure the accuracy of your visa application, it’s recommended to consult an immigration lawyer or expert in Japan. At Tanabe Immigration Office, we provide comprehensive support for short-term visa applications and other immigration services, ensuring a smooth and successful entry into Japan.
See Also
