Visiting Japan: A Comprehensive Guide to Applying for a Tourist Visa from Singapore
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If you are a foreigner residing in Singapore and considering a trip to Japan, one essential step you’ll need to take is applying for a tourist visa. Having visited Japan numerous times myself, I have navigated the visa application process extensively. While I currently enjoy a visa exemption to Japan, I am well-acquainted with the requirements and procedures, as I often assist family members who need to obtain visas. In this guide, I will share everything you need to know about applying for a Japan visa in person at the embassy in Singapore.
- Requirements for applying for a Japan visa in Singapore
- Should I apply for the Japan visa online or in-person?
- How to secure an appointment at the Japan Embassy
- Processing time for in-person applications
- Preparing documents for your visa application
- Obtaining a multiple-entry Japan visa in Singapore
- Applying for a domestic helper visa for Japan
Requirements for Applying for a Japan Visa in Singapore
First and foremost, it’s important to determine whether you can apply for a Japan visa in Singapore. The in-person application process is exclusively available to legal residents of Singapore. This means you must possess a valid residence pass, such as an Employment Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP). If you are merely visiting Singapore without legal residency, you will need to apply for your visa in your home country instead.
Additionally, you must schedule an appointment to apply for your visa in person at the Japanese Embassy located at 16 Nassim Road. Without an appointment, you will not be permitted entry to submit your application.
Should I Apply for the Japan Visa Online or In-Person?
The Japan tourism visa can be applied for both electronically (eVisa) and in-person. However, the method you choose should be based on your specific circumstances rather than personal preference. Here’s a breakdown of both options:
Japan Electronic Visa (eVisa): The eVisa process is detailed in my previous post, which you can read here. While applying online may seem convenient, there are drawbacks to consider. Due to the surge in demand for travel to Japan, the processing time for eVisas can be lengthy, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom (Sakura) season or school holidays. To ensure your visa is processed in time, it is advisable to submit your eVisa application at least two months prior to your trip.
In contrast, if you are able to secure an in-person appointment at the embassy and submit your application there, you can expect to receive your passport back with the visa in as little as 5 business days. Therefore, if your travel plans are last-minute, applying in person is the more efficient option. However, be aware that obtaining an in-person appointment can be quite challenging.
How to Secure an Appointment at the Japan Embassy
Appointments can be booked through the official Japan embassy website. When applying as a tourist, be sure to select Visa (Sightseeing) as your category. If the website indicates “No events to display,” it means all appointment slots are currently full. It is essential to avoid booking under other categories, as this will be verified at both the entrance and the visa counter.
The demand for appointment slots is exceedingly high, and they typically fill up quickly once they become available. To increase your chances, check the website frequently, as cancellations do occur. Having your documents prepared in advance will allow you to submit your application promptly when a slot opens up.
For those who may not have the time to constantly check for openings, a helpful resource is an unofficial Telegram channel created by Dominic Arrojado, which notifies subscribers when new appointment slots become available. While this service is free, it is important to act fast, as many people are vying for these limited slots.
If you are applying for multiple family members, only one appointment slot is required—do not attempt to book multiple slots, as this could lead to cancellations.
Two appointment slots are available each day: 8:30-9:30 am and 9:30-10:30 am. It is advisable to arrive early, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. If you manage to secure the 8:30 am slot, aim to arrive by 8:00 am to avoid long waits.
Importantly, the appointment must be made in the name of the applicant, even if someone else is submitting the application on their behalf. For example, if you are applying for a domestic helper’s visa, the appointment should be made under the helper’s name, and you will need a power of attorney or letter of authorization signed by them.
Processing Time for In-Person Japan Visa Applications
If you successfully secure an appointment, congratulations! From the date of your appointment, expect a processing time of 5 business days to receive your passport and visa, assuming all documents are correctly submitted and your application is accepted. You will receive a slip indicating when to return for your passport.
The submission date counts as the first of the 5 business days. For instance, if you submit your application on a Thursday, you can collect your passport the following Wednesday afternoon. Please note that there is no expedited or express visa option available.
Be mindful of both Singaporean and Japanese public holidays, as these will affect processing times. Check the embassy’s holiday schedule here.
How Much Does the Japan Visa Cost?
The paper slip you receive after submitting your application will specify the visa fee based on your nationality. Good news—certain nationalities are exempt from visa fees, meaning you might not have to pay anything at all!
Japan Visa Fees: For a comprehensive list of Japan visa fees and information about which nationalities are exempt, please refer to the embassy’s website. It’s important to note that the embassy only accepts cash payments—credit card transactions and other payment methods are not permitted. Prepare the exact amount for your visa fee, as change will not be provided. Additionally, the embassy limits the number of coins accepted to ten per transaction and only accepts S$1 coins, so plan accordingly.
Preparing Documents for Your Visa Application
Once your appointment is secured, the next step is to meticulously prepare your application documents. This is crucial, as missing or incorrect documentation can result in being turned away after securing an appointment.
1. Review the Required Documents Checklist
The embassy’s official website provides a checklist of required documents. On the day of your appointment, ensure you have all necessary items. A helpful tip is to print the checklist and organize your documents in the order listed. Using a folder can help streamline the review process for embassy staff.
2. Filling Out a Schedule of Stay
A “Schedule of Stay” outlines your planned daily activities and itinerary while in Japan. Use the provided template and fill it out thoroughly. Include detailed plans for each day, including where you will stay. In my experience, insufficient details in this document can lead to rejection, so be as comprehensive as possible.
3. Downloadable Digital Pass via myICA
If you hold a Long-Term Pass (LTP) in Singapore and it was renewed after February 27, 2023, you will have received a digital pass accessible through Singpass, as physical cards are no longer issued. During your visa application, you will need to submit this digital pass, which must be printed out. A screenshot from Singpass is not acceptable. To obtain the official downloadable version of your LTP:
- Log in to MyICA via Singpass.
- Go to MyICA Home and click on “View Documents” in the Documents section.
- You will be redirected to FileSG, where you can download your digital pass with a QR code for verification.
- Print this document for your application.
4. Proof of Relationship for Sponsoring Someone Else’s Visa
When applying for a visa on behalf of another person, it is essential to provide documentation that verifies your relationship. For example, if parents are applying for their children’s visas, a copy of the birth certificate indicating parental names is required. Similarly, a marriage certificate is necessary for a spouse’s visa application. If these documents are not in English, ensure they are translated and certified.
In some cases, couples can apply separately without needing to provide a marriage certificate, but each applicant must demonstrate their financial independence through employment certification or business registration.
5. Where to Print Documents Near the Japan Embassy
If you realize you’ve forgotten a document or need to reprint something, the embassy typically allows you to return before noon. The closest printing service is Fotohub located in the basement of Forum Shopping Mall, about a 10-minute walk from the embassy. They charge $1 per page, which is pricier than other printing services, but it can be a lifesaver in urgent situations.
How to Obtain a Multiple Entry Japan Visa
When applying for a Japan tourist visa, you have the option of requesting a single or multiple entry visa. I highly recommend applying for a multiple entry visa, as it poses no disadvantages; if denied, you will simply receive a single entry visa instead.
To begin, ensure you are referencing the correct multiple entry visa document checklist found on the embassy’s website, as requirements may vary based on nationality.
1. Multiple Entry Visa Document Checklist
Refer to the multiple entry visa checklist for required documents specific to your passport.
2. Letter of Explanation
Some nationalities may be required to submit a letter of explanation to the Embassy of Japan in Singapore, detailing the reason for requesting a multiple entry visa. This is optional for others. If required, include:
- List of Past Visits to Japan: Mention previous trips to Japan to justify your request.
- Immigration Entry Stamps: Provide photocopies of passport pages with Japan entry stamps as proof of past visits.
- Financial Documents: Include a document demonstrating your financial capability, such as an Income Tax Notice of Assessment or a recent bank statement.
- Reason for Request: Clearly state why you desire a multiple entry visa—for instance, if you plan to visit Japan again soon.
Likelihood of Receiving a Japan Multiple Entry Visa
While I cannot guarantee the likelihood of obtaining a multiple entry visa, I can share anecdotal experiences. For one of my relatives, it took three attempts to secure a multiple entry visa, which was ultimately granted for a 5-year duration with a 90-day stay. Conversely, I have friends who were granted multiple entry visas on their first attempt, even without prior visits to Japan. Some of them applied through a travel agency, which may enhance the chances of approval, although this is not guaranteed.
How to Obtain a Domestic Helper Visa for Japan
If you employ a domestic helper in Singapore and wish to bring her along on your family trip to Japan, you can apply for a special visa. The process mirrors that of a standard tourist visa, but there is a specific checklist for domestic helper visas available on the embassy’s website. Here are key points to keep in mind:
- A domestic helper must be accompanied: She cannot travel alone to Japan; she must be accompanied by her employer or a family member.
- Letter of Guarantee: A letter of guarantee must be submitted, indicating that you are responsible for your helper’s trip. A template can be found on the embassy’s website.
- Letter of Authorization: If you are applying on her behalf, she must sign a power of attorney or letter of authorization, which is also available on the embassy’s website.
What to Do If Your Travel Date Is Approaching but You Still Don’t Have a Visa
If you find yourself in a situation where securing an appointment is proving impossible, consider engaging a travel agent to assist with your visa application. While I cannot personally vouch for their services, I have friends who have successfully used JA Travel, which charges S$120 for visa processing. You will still need to prepare your documents, and the agency will take 5 business days to handle the application on your behalf.
And that wraps up everything I know about applying for a Japan tourist visa at the embassy in Singapore! If you have any questions or wish to share your own experiences, please feel free to leave a comment below. Sharing your insights can be incredibly helpful for future applicants.
Are you planning a trip to Japan?
I have written extensively about this beautiful country. For travel inspiration, check out the ‘Japan’ category on my blog!