Japan
Moderate — regularly checked by airlinesJapan welcomed 36.87 million international tourists in 2024, exceeding the 2019 record by 16%. Tourism spending reached 53.3 billion dollars. South Korea, China, and Taiwan are the top three source markets.
Japan is one of the most popular destinations in Asia, welcoming nearly 37 million international visitors in 2024, an all-time record that surpassed the pre-pandemic peak. Japanese authorities require proof of return or onward travel for all visitors entering on a visa exemption. Airlines verify this document at the check-in counter before boarding. Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hokkaido attract travelers from around the world year-round, and demand for onward tickets has been rising sharply as Japan tourism continues to grow.
Updated on March 2026
Visa Requirements
Japan offers visa-free entry for nationals of 73 countries, allowing tourist stays of 15, 30, or 90 days depending on nationality and bilateral agreements. French, European, American, and Canadian nationals benefit from 90 days without a visa. For other nationalities, the JAPAN eVISA system is being progressively rolled out to simplify the application process.
| Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Exemption | 15, 30, or 90 days (depending on nationality) | Free0 EUR |
| JAPAN eVISA | Up to 90 days (single entry) | Varies by nationality~25 EUR |
Transit Rules
Transiting through Japanese airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai) is possible without a visa for certain nationalities when staying in the international zone. However, a confirmed ticket to your final destination is required by airlines.
Documents Required
- Passport valid for the entire duration of stay in Japan
- Return or onward ticket (verifiable by PNR)
- Visit Japan Web completed online before arrival
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host address)
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Fingerprints and photo taken on arrival (mandatory for all visitors)
Practical tip
If you visit Japan with a one-way ticket, airlines will ask for proof of departure before boarding. Japanese low-cost carriers like Peach Aviation and Jetstar Japan are particularly strict about this requirement.
Order an onward ticket for Japan
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an onward ticket to enter Japan?▾
Yes. Japanese immigration requires proof of return or onward travel for all visitors entering on a visa exemption. Airlines also verify this document at the check-in counter before boarding. Without a valid exit ticket showing departure within your authorized stay period, you risk being denied boarding at your departure airport.
How long can I stay in Japan without a visa?▾
French, European, American, and many other nationals benefit from a visa exemption of 90 days. Some nationalities are limited to 15 or 30 days. The duration depends on bilateral agreements between Japan and your country.
What is Visit Japan Web and is it mandatory?▾
Visit Japan Web is an official online service that allows you to complete immigration, customs, and quarantine formalities before arrival in Japan. While not strictly mandatory, it is strongly recommended as it significantly speeds up the immigration process at all Japanese airports by allowing you to use the QR code lanes.
Do Japanese airlines check return tickets?▾
Yes. ANA, Japan Airlines, Peach Aviation, Jetstar Japan, and all airlines operating flights to Japan verify return tickets in accordance with IATA regulations. Low-cost carriers are particularly strict at check-in.
Can I extend my stay in Japan beyond 90 days?▾
The visa exemption generally cannot be extended beyond the initially granted period. To stay more than 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa at a Japanese consulate before departure from your home country. Overstaying your visa in Japan carries severe consequences, including deportation, fines, and a multi-year entry ban.
Is the JAPAN eVISA available for all countries?▾
No, the JAPAN eVISA is currently available for residents of select countries: Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The system is being progressively expanded to additional nationalities as part of Japan's effort to modernize its visa application process.
Is a ferry ticket to South Korea accepted as proof of exit?▾
Airlines at the check-in counter almost exclusively accept flight tickets with a verifiable PNR code. A ferry ticket to South Korea, even if confirmed with a reservation number, will likely not be accepted at check-in as valid proof of onward travel for your flight to Japan.
Are fingerprints mandatory on arrival in Japan?▾
Yes. All foreign visitors aged 16 and over must provide fingerprints and have their photo taken upon arrival in Japan. This biometric procedure is systematic and mandatory at all entry points into the country, including airports and seaports. The process is quick and fully automated at most major airports.
