The entire process from application and payment to issuance can be done online
What do you like to do when you travel? Do you prefer taking in the history and culture of a foreign land, or checking out the nightlife? Maybe you choose to spend the day relaxing in the spa, or hiking and taking in the beauty of nature.
Whichever activity floats your boat, you can do it to your heart’s content in Japan. The island nation has long been a sought-after tourist destination, seeing over 2.4 million international visitors in 2023, according to the official Japan tourism website.
As of November 2022, UAE nationals no longer need an entry permit to Japan, but for the other residents in the Emirates who do need one, an e-visa is readily available for online application. If you are not sure if you need a visa to visit Japan, you can check the list of countries on the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Here are some facts about the e-visa, and how to apply online.
The e-visa is a new system introduced by the Japanese government to ease travel for tourism. It allows international visitors to submit their applications and documents online. The entire process from application and payment to issuance can be done online.
The reason for visit must be tourism only. The e-visa is not applicable for those travelling to visit relatives and friends or for business purposes.
In 2023, Japan released a list of countries whose residents are allowed to apply for the e-visa for tourism. The nations are: Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA.
The Japan short-term e-visa allows foreigners entry into the country for 90 days. It is a single-entry visa. It is valid for three months from the date of issuance.
According to the official website of the Japanese embassy in Dubai, the e-visa can take around four weeks to be processed.
Single-entry visas cost most nationalities Dh80. For Indians, the cost is Dh20. There are some nationalities for whom the visa fee is exempted. This list can be found on the Japan embassy website.
You can check the exact documents required for your nationality on the Japan embassy websites. These are the general documents to gather: