Japan entry requirements for travellers from Iran
Do Iranian citizens need a visa for Japan?
Yes. Iranian passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Japan. There is no visa on arrival and there is no eVisa option currently available for Iranian nationals. Applications must be submitted in person at the Embassy of Japan in Tehran.
Japan and Iran maintain diplomatic relations, and the Japanese embassy in Tehran processes visa applications. However, processing times can be longer than average due to administrative requirements, and applicants should plan well in advance of their intended travel date.
How long can you stay in Japan?
A short-stay visa permits a maximum of 90 days per visit. The exact permitted duration is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry. Short-stay visas cannot be extended from within Japan.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must be valid throughout your stay. At least one blank page is required for entry stamps. Japan does not require six months of validity beyond your departure date.
Proof of funds
Bank statements for the past three months are required. Due to international sanctions on Iran, demonstrating financial resources in a form acceptable to the embassy can be more complex than for applicants from other countries. Contact the embassy in advance for guidance on acceptable forms of financial documentation.
Onward or return travel
A confirmed return or onward ticket is required at the time of application and on arrival in Japan.
Applying for your Japan visa
Iranian nationals must apply in person at the Embassy of Japan in Tehran.
Documents typically required: completed visa application form, valid passport, one recent passport-size photograph (4cm x 3cm, white background), confirmed return flight booking, accommodation confirmation for your full stay, a detailed day-by-day itinerary, three months of bank statements, an employment certificate or proof of occupation, and any additional documents the embassy may request.
The fee is ¥15,000 for a single-entry visa and ¥30,000 for a multiple-entry visa, payable at the embassy. Confirm acceptable payment methods with the embassy in advance, as international payment restrictions may apply.
Processing times may extend beyond the standard 3 to 5 business days. Apply at least six weeks before your intended travel date.
Health requirements
No vaccinations are required to enter Japan. All COVID-19 entry requirements have been removed.
Other entry requirements
All arriving passengers must complete a disembarkation card on the flight. Fingerprinting and photography are taken at the port of entry. Cash or valuables exceeding ¥1,000,000 must be declared at customs.
Note that direct flights between Iran and Japan are limited. Most routes require a connection through a third country. Check current route options before booking.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Japan visa processing take for Iranian nationals?
Processing can take longer than the standard 3 to 5 business days. Allow at least six weeks and contact the embassy to confirm current timelines before you book anything.
What financial documents are acceptable?
Due to international sanctions, some standard financial documentation may be harder to provide. Contact the Embassy of Japan in Tehran directly for up-to-date guidance on what they accept.
Can I apply for a Japan visa if I am an Iranian national living abroad?
You may be able to apply at the Japanese embassy in your country of residence. Contact that embassy directly to confirm that they accept applications from Iranian nationals residing in that country.
Can I work in Japan on a short-stay visa?
No. Short-stay visas are strictly for tourism, business visits, and family stays. Paid employment is not permitted.
Is travel insurance available for Iranian nationals?
International travel insurance can be difficult to obtain for Iranian nationals due to sanctions. Check with specialist insurers or brokers before booking your trip.
Can I extend my stay from within Japan?
No. Short-stay visas cannot be extended from within Japan. You must depart before your authorised stay expires.