Japan
Entry requirements
This information is for people travelling on a full 鈥楤ritish citizen鈥� passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government鈥檚 understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Japan set and enforce entry rules. If you鈥檙e not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the .
Passport validity requirements聽聽
If you鈥檙e visiting Japan, your passport must be valid for the length of your stay. No additional period of validity is required. You need a blank page for your visa stamp.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
You can get a visa on arrival in Japan for tourism or business for up to 90 days. You do not need to apply before you travel.
If you need a multiple-entry visa, you must ask the immigration officials when you arrive.聽
If you want to stay longer, you can apply at your nearest immigration office for an extension for another 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the period of the extension.
For long-term stays or to work or study, you must meet the Japanese government鈥檚 entry requirements. Check . It is illegal to work in Japan without the correct visa no matter how informal or temporary the work.
If you overstay your permission to remain in Japan, you risk arrest, detention and a heavy fine.
For residency information, see the website and read about living in Japan.
Vaccine requirements
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see .
Customs rules
There are strict rules about . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
Taking food into Japan聽
It is to Japan without permission from the . Penalties include a heavy fine and prison sentence.
Whale meat is available in Japan but importing it into the UK and EU is illegal. If you import whale meat to the UK, you can get a fine of up to 拢5,000 and a prison sentence. Customs officers will seize the meat.
Taking money into Japan聽
Japan is still a predominantly cash-based society. You may have difficulty using credit and debit cards issued outside Japan. Cirrus, Maestro, Link and Delta cash cards are not widely accepted. Japanese post offices, 7-Eleven stores and JP Post Bank have cash machines that will accept some foreign cards during business hours.