Visiting Japan

2023/3/27

Visa Information

Jurisdiction

 Visa applications are only accepted from residents in our jurisdiction.

  ●OKLAHOMA
  ●TEXAS

*Click here to check the location of the Embassy/Consulate-General with jurisdiction over your place of residence.

Exemption of Visa (short-term stay)

Please click here to find out if you need a Japanese visa or not.
 
A visa is NOT necessary for US passport holders visiting Japan for a short-term stay of less than 90 days with the purpose of tourism and business.

*visa waiver arrangement with the United States does NOT apply to U.S. individuals wishing to travel to Japan for paid activities,  news/media related activities or attending depositions taken by U.S. Consul, or for U.S. Federal Government employees on official business or transit to/from official mission.

How to apply? 

★You can apply via mail.
  •  We can only accept applications from residents within our jurisdiction.
  •  Please note: we only ship to addresses within our jurisdiction.
  •  We accept a copy of your immigration documents. You do not need to submit the original documents like green card, I-20, I-797, DS-2019/IAP-66, etc.
  • If your application package is incomplete, we may send your application package back to you therefore you need to ensure to have all required documents when you apply by mail.
  • When processing your application by mail, please include a self-addressed postage paid return envelope via traceable mail (ex. Fedex, UPS, U.S. Express Mail). If you submit a pre-paid return envelope via FedEx, you must input your address in both the "From" and "To" fields. Do not input Consulate-General of Japan in the "From" field, or your envelope will be discarded.
  • The Consulate is not responsible for any loss, damage or delay of items in mailing. 
  • A disclaimer must also be included with visa applications sent by mail to:   
 
Consulate-General of Japan
ATTN: Visa Section

909 Fannin Street, Suite 3000
Houston, TX 77010
 

★ You can apply in person.

   Visa window will be open as follows. 
       Monday - Friday  (except holidays)
       9:30am-12:30pm (Please arrive by noon)  Application drop off only  
     
  1:30pm -4:00pm (Please arrive by 3 pm)  Visa pick up/Payment only 
  
  • A proxy (include Visa Agents) may apply on the applicant's behalf with Power of Attorney.
  • If you pick up a passport for an applicant, please bring an Authorization letter and your ID when you pick it up.
  • The Consulate will not make copies. A good rule of thumb: If you want the document back, bring the original AND a photocopy.

When can I apply?

  Typically short term visit visa is valid for 3 months therefore the earliest you can apply is 3 months before you enter Japan.  We will not accept your application if you apply too early.  

Processing Time     

  • It usually takes 5-7 business days (Monday - Friday, except holidays) after all required documents are in order.
  • It may take more than 5-7 business days if consultation with our headquarters in Tokyo is required.
  • We will let you know by phone or e-mail when your visa is approved and issued. Please provide your best contact information.
  • We do NOT have expedited services. 
  • We do NOT provide any updates of your application process. Please do not call or e-mail us to ask about your status.

Visa Fee

  • We only accept CASH. We do not accept personal checks, money order or credit cards.
  • Please click here to check your visa fee.
 

What kind of visa do you need?   

        *If you have a Status of U.S. Forces Agreement,click here  
Japan Visa Information Hotline (for United States excluding Alaska and Hawaii)
     1- 202-499-1468  (24 hours/7 days a week, English only) 

For general information on Japanese Visas, please click here.

 
Before contacting us, please read throughly our website
For inquiries regarding visas, please send to jvisa@ho.mofa.go.jp. Due to the high volume of inquiries, we may take few days to respond.

 

Other information  

Japanese Visa Information by The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
 
The Ministry of Justice, Immigration Services Agency of Japan
 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Japanese Visa

Trusted Traveler Program(Accelerate immigration procedures)

Foreign national coexistence policies 
 
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