Japan entry requirements for travellers from China
Do Chinese citizens need a visa for Japan?
Yes. Chinese passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Japan. Japan does not offer a visa on arrival for Chinese nationals.
Chinese applicants can use Japan’s eVisa system, but applications must be submitted through a MOFA-accredited travel agency in China rather than directly online. The agency collects your documents and submits them electronically. Your visa, if approved, is issued digitally and linked to your passport.
You can also apply in person at the Japanese embassy in Beijing or at the consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, or Shenyang.
How long can you stay in Japan?
A short-stay visa allows a maximum of 90 days per visit. The immigration officer at the port of entry determines the exact permitted stay based on your travel purpose and documents. You may be granted a shorter period than 90 days.
Short-stay visas cannot be extended from within Japan and cannot be converted to long-term residence status.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must remain valid for the entire duration of your trip. At least one blank page is required for entry stamps. Japan does not require six months of remaining validity beyond your departure date.
Proof of funds
You must show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Embassy guidelines typically require bank statements covering the past three months. There is no fixed minimum, but your balance should reflect your planned accommodation and daily expenses.
Onward or return travel
A confirmed return or onward ticket is required both at the time of application and when you arrive in Japan. One-way tickets are not acceptable.
Applying for your Japan visa
Option 1: eVisa through an accredited agency
Chinese nationals can apply for a Japan eVisa through a MOFA-registered travel agent. The agent compiles and submits your application electronically. Once approved, the visa is linked to your passport digitally. No physical sticker is issued.
Documents required: completed visa application form, valid passport, one passport-size photograph (4cm x 3cm, white background), confirmed return flight booking, hotel or accommodation confirmation, detailed day-by-day itinerary, three months of bank statements, and an employment certificate or proof of business registration.
The fee is ¥15,000 for a single-entry visa and ¥30,000 for multiple-entry. The agency may charge a service fee on top of this. Processing usually takes 3 to 5 business days.
Option 2: Apply in person
Chinese nationals can apply directly at the Japanese embassy in Beijing or consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, or Shenyang. The same documents apply.
Health requirements
There are no vaccination requirements to enter Japan. No COVID-19 testing or quarantine is needed.
Other entry requirements
All travellers must complete a disembarkation card during the flight. Fingerprinting and photography are taken at the port of entry. Cash or valuables totalling over ¥1,000,000 must be declared at customs.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I apply?
Apply at least 2 to 3 weeks before your travel date, especially during Golden Week (late April to early May) when processing can slow.
Can I visit Japan for business on a short-stay visa?
Yes. Short-stay visas cover tourism, business meetings, and visiting relatives. They do not permit paid employment.
Is there a multiple-entry Japan visa for Chinese nationals?
Yes. A multiple-entry visa costs ¥30,000 and allows repeated visits within the validity period.
Do I need travel insurance?
Japan does not require travel insurance for entry, but healthcare costs are high. Insurance is strongly recommended.
Can I extend my visa from within Japan?
No. You must leave Japan and re-apply from outside the country.
Will I be fingerprinted at the border?
Yes. All foreign nationals entering Japan are fingerprinted and photographed at the port of entry.