Japan/Transit Visa

Japan Transit Visa Requirements

Guide to Japan Transit Visa for travelers passing through Japan to a third country.

Processing: 5 working days

Fee: JPY 0

Last verified: January 2026

Updated: 27 January 2026

Verified: January 2026

Reviewed by VisaCalm Editorial Team

|Editorial Policy

Overview

The Japan Transit Visa is for travelers who need to pass through Japan on their way to a third country and wish to leave the airport transit area.

When do you need a transit visa? - If you want to leave the airport during layover - If your layover requires overnight stay outside airport - If changing airports (e.g., Narita to Haneda)

When you DON'T need a transit visa: - Staying within airport transit area - Layover at same airport without leaving - Nationals of visa-exempt countries

Eligibility Requirements

Confirmed ticket to third country
Transit through Japan within 72 hours
Valid visa for destination country (if required)
Sufficient funds for transit period

Required Documents

Valid Passport

Required

With at least 6 months validity

Visa Application Form

Required

Completed transit visa form

Photo

Required

4.5cm x 4.5cm, white background

Flight Tickets

Required

Confirmed tickets showing transit through Japan

Visa for Final Destination

Optional

If required for your destination country

Application Steps

Confirm Transit Need

Verify if you need to leave airport during layover

Prepare Documents

Gather passport, tickets, and destination visa

Submit at Embassy

Apply at Japanese embassy/consulate

Collect Visa

Pick up after processing

Visa Fees

Type	Amount	Note
Transit Visa	JPY 0	Free

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need transit visa for Japan layover?

Only if you want to leave the airport. If staying in transit area, no visa needed.

How long can I stay with transit visa?

Maximum 72 hours (3 days) to continue to your final destination.

Is Japan transit visa free?

Yes, the Japan transit visa has no fee. You only need to visit the Japanese embassy/consulate with required documents.

Can I change airports during transit without a visa?

No. If you need to travel between airports (e.g., Narita to Haneda), you must enter Japan and will need a transit visa or tourist visa depending on your nationality.

What documents do I need for Japan transit visa?

You need a valid passport, completed application form, photo, confirmed onward tickets, and visa for your final destination (if required). Processing takes about 5 working days.