How to apply Visa (STEP2)

March 19, 2025
How do I apply for a visa?

There are currently 3 ways to apply for a visa at our Consulate.
Visa applications are only acceptable for travel within the next 3 months.

If you came here by web search,
be sure to visit STEP1 first.
 
METHODS WHO CAN APPLY HOW TO APPLY PROCESS TIME * YOU WILL RECEIVE:
(1) Online (eVISA)
Applicants ONLY for
 - Short-Term Stay (Within 90days)
 - Tourism/Sightseeing
 - Single-Entry

 - Staying at hotels 
  (NOT relatives' or friends' house)

 
Apply through JAPAN eVISA page. About 5 business days Electronic visa
* You will need to display on
your phone/device during
check-in and immigration
proceedings.
(2) In person Applicants who residing in our jurisdiction Apply by paper application and
drop off all required documents
at our office. (Walk-ins only)
About 5 business days Visa sticker in your passport
(3) By mail Applicants who residing in our jurisdiction except City of Boston, City of Cambridge and Town of Brookline
Apply by paper application and mail to our office. After receiving your application, the Consulate will call the applicant as one of the visa application procedures.

* Please include these below:
 - Release of liability with signature
 - Returned envelop with shipping label (if applicants cannot come to office to pickup)

 
About 1-2 weeks

*Please allow additional time for mailing in addition to the time for review
Visa sticker in your passport

*The time to process an application for visa depends on the applicant's circumstances.
*The Consulate may make inquiries to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo. In such cases, over a few weeks or more are needed to process an application.
The next steps

STEP 3: Please check your types of Visa and prepare all the required documents,
Visa for Short-Term Stay    Transit Visa    Visa for Work and Long Term Stay    Multiple Visa