Is a pre-arranged Japanese visa required? What documents are needed?
くみ子 美加子
くみ子 美加子
Tokyo travel expert, lived there for 10 years.
Heading to Japan? That's fantastic! Let me break down the visa process simply.
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### **Q: Do I need a visa for Japan?**
**Answer: Yes!**
If you hold an ordinary passport from China (Mainland China), you **must obtain a visa in advance** whether traveling as a tourist, visiting family, or on business. Forget about visa-on-arrival — Japan doesn’t offer it to Chinese citizens. No visa, no boarding.
If you hold passports from other regions (e.g., Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan) or countries (e.g., the U.S., Singapore), visa-free entry may apply. But this guide focuses on Mainland China passport holders.
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### **Q: Can I apply directly at a Japanese embassy or consulate?**
**No!**
Important: Japan **does NOT accept individual visa applications** submitted directly at embassies/consulates.
You must apply through **Japan’s authorized travel agencies** — officially designated agents.
**How to find them?**
* **Official channels**: Check the "List of Authorized Agencies" on the Japanese Embassy/Consulate website.
* **Easy way**: Search "Japan Visa" on Taobao, Fliggy, or Ctrip. Pick one with high sales and good reviews. They’ll provide a detailed checklist and templates, making preparation easy.
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### **Q: What documents do I need?**
This is critical and often the trickiest part. While requirements vary slightly by agency, core documents remain similar. Here’s the framework:
Generally, you’ll need **Basic Documents** + **Financial Proof**.
#### **✅ Basic Documents (Everyone needs these)**
1. **Original Passport**
* Must be valid ≥6 months.
* ≥2 blank visa pages required.
* Submit old passports if available, especially those with visas from developed countries (US, EU etc.) — they strengthen your application!
2. **Completed Visa Application Form**
* Provided by your agency. Download, print, and fill.
* Be honest: Employer info, address, and phone numbers must be accurate.
3. **Photograph**
* Recent (≤6 months) color photo on white background. Size: 4.5cm x 3.5cm or 2-inch.
* Ensure it meets visa specs (no selfies/casual photos). Photo studios know the requirements if you mention "Japan visa."
4. **Copies of ID Card & Household Register (Hukou)**
* Front/back copy of ID card.
* Full copy of all pages containing information in your Hukou.
5. **Flight & Hotel Bookings**
* Proof of your travel plans.
* **Tip**: No need to pay yet! Book "pending payment" or "pay at hotel" options online and print confirmations. Agencies can also furnish placeholder bookings for applications — book real ones after visa approval.
6. **Employment Certificate + Company Business License**
* **Employment Certificate**: Company letterhead stating your position, salary, employment history, approved leave dates, and guarantee of your return. Must include company chop. (Agencies provide templates.)
* **Business License**: Copy of company license with official chop.
#### **💰 Financial Proof (Proving you can afford the trip and will return)**
Visa officers prioritize this! It shows financial stability and no intent to overstay.
* **Bank Statements (Most critical!)**
* Typically ≥6 months to 1 year of salary account statements. Printed and stamped at any bank branch.
* Visa officers check annual income and ending balance. For a **Single-Entry Tourist Visa**, an **annual income ≥¥100,000 RMB** is a safe baseline on statements.
* **Crucial**: Avoid large deposits right before applying! This looks suspicious and may cause rejection. Show stable, consistent cashflow.
* **Supplemental Proof (Optional but recommended)**
* **Time Deposit Certificate**: Funds frozen in your account (typically ¥50,000-100,000 / US$7,000-14,000) until after your return.
* **Property Deed / Vehicle License**: Proves assets in China, demonstrating strong ties to home country.
* **Tax Payment or Social Security Records**: Highly credible proof of genuine employment and income.
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### **💡 Summary & Tips**
1. **Golden Rule**: Pick a reliable agency; they'll guide you through everything.
2. **Timeline**: Start ≥1 month before travel (longer during peak seasons).
3. **Authenticity**: **Never. Submit. Fake. Documents.** Rejection jeopardizes future visa applications to Japan/other countries.
4. **Students/Retirees**:
* Students: Submit parents' financial proof.
* Retirees: Provide retirement certificate/pension statement. Document requirements are simpler.
5. **Multi-Entry Visas**: For 3/5-year visas, annual income requirements jump sharply (e.g., ≥¥200,000 or ¥500,000). Consult your agency.
Though paperwork is tedious, it’s manageable step by step. Japan is absolutely worth it! Good luck with your application, and happy travels!