Your Guide to Obtaining a Japanese Visa from the USA

Your Guide to Obtaining a Japanese Visa from the USA 🇯🇵

If you’re a US resident with a Green Card, H1B, F1, or J1 visa, you may be considering a trip to Japan. However, obtaining a visa can be a complicated process if you’re not prepared. In this guide, we’ll cover the necessary documents, application process, and important tips to ensure you have a successful visa application! 🎟️

Who Should Apply? 🤔

• Applicable: Green Card, H1B, F1, J1 holders.
• Not Applicable: B1/B2 travel visa holders.

Required Documents 📋

‼️ Note: Do not staple any documents! Use glue to attach your photos. ⚠️

1. Completed application form + signature + photo (50x50mm).
2. Passport + photocopy.
3. Green Card/I797/I20 + photocopy.
4. Driver’s license + photocopy.
5. Self-statement + signature.
6. Travel itinerary.
7. Printed confirmation of flights + hotel reservations.

⛩️ If applying for an eVisa or single-entry, you won’t need items 8 and 9. Only applicants for multiple entries over a 3- to 5-year period need:

8. Bank statement showing 6 months of deposits.
9. 6-month bank transaction history.

Key Considerations ⚠️

• If bank statements show different addresses over the last 6 months, bring your old driver’s license as proof.
• When booking travel for visa purposes, opt for full refund options in case of cancellation.
• Total bank assets over multiple accounts should ideally exceed $50,000 for multi-entry visas, and $100,000 for 5-year multi-entries.

How to Apply for Your Visa ✈️

For details on visa types and document downloads, visit this official site. Scroll to the bottom to find the Multiple Visa Entry application form. Make sure to correctly list your 6-month bank deposit totals as instructed (see image reference 3️⃣).

Important: Japanese visa applications require in-person submission, with no online or interview appointment options available.

📍 The Japanese embassy in Washington, D.C. accepts drop-off documents from 9:15 AM to 12:00 PM. Ensure all your documents are ready, as they will be screened on-site. You will receive a receipt for passport pick-up within 5 working days (7 calendar days). For example, if you drop off your documents on Wednesday, you can pick up your passport the following Wednesday.

Don’t Forget! 💡

Ensure you carry a pen—for any last-minute edits to printed application forms. One last reminder: the fee for passport collection is $43 (cash only) and payment by credit card or check is not accepted. Pickup timing is from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM.

Conclusion

With proper preparation and understanding of the process, applying for a Japanese visa can be smooth and straightforward. Make sure to double-check your document list, timeline, and be ready for your drop-off appointment. Wishing you successful and enjoyable travel experiences! 🎉