For UAE Nationals: Easier Than Ever
Contrary to the idea of more paperwork, travel to Japan has become significantly easier for Emirati passport holders. UAE citizens can enjoy visa-free entry into Japan for short-term stays of up to 90 days for purposes like tourism, business, or visiting
family. This is an extension from the previous 30-day limit. This means for UAE nationals, there are no new visa forms or pre-travel applications to worry about. The process is straightforward, requiring only a valid ICAO-compliant e-passport for entry, making trips to Tokyo, Kyoto, and beyond more accessible than before.
For UAE Residents: Understanding the New 'Paperwork'
For the majority of people living in the UAE—the expatriate residents—the phrase 'paperwork mode' is more accurate. Your eligibility to travel to Japan depends on the passport you hold, not your UAE residency status. However, the process has been modernized. Japan has introduced an online e-visa system that allows many UAE residents to apply for their tourist visa from the comfort of their home or office, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate in person. This is the new 'paperwork': a streamlined, digital process.
The Japan eVisa: Who Can Apply?
The Japan e-visa is a game-changer for many, but not all nationalities are eligible. It is specifically available to residents of the UAE holding passports from certain countries, including India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka, among others. To qualify, you must have a valid UAE residence visa with at least six months of validity beyond your planned travel dates. The e-visa is designed for short-term tourism for a single entry, with a maximum stay of up to 90 days, though the granted duration can vary.
Applying for the eVisa: A Step-by-Step Guide
The online application process is designed to be straightforward. First, you must visit Japan's official e-visa portal, run by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). You will need to create an account, fill out the digital application form with your personal and travel details, and upload scanned copies of your required documents. After submitting the application, you pay the visa fee online. You will then receive updates and, upon approval, the electronic visa itself via your registered email.
Your Essential Document Checklist
Preparation is key for a successful application. Before you start, gather digital copies of the following documents: a clear scan of your passport's information page, a copy of your valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID, a recent passport-style photograph with a white background, confirmed flight and hotel bookings for your entire trip, and a detailed travel itinerary. Many applicants are also required to provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer and a bank statement from the last three months to prove sufficient funds for the trip.
Costs, Timelines, and What to Expect
The processing time for the Japan e-visa is typically between five and seven working days, though it is always wise to apply well in advance of your travel dates. Be aware that Japan revised its visa issuance fees, with new rates taking effect from July 1, 2026. The cost for a single-entry tourist visa is now set at JPY 15,000, which is approximately USD 100 or AED 367. This fee is paid during the online application process. For nationalities not eligible for the e-visa, the traditional application method through the consulate or a designated visa center like VFS Global remains the required path.
