Japan Opens eVisa Scheme For Americans & Canadians In Tour Groups

While many countries are open to travel business following the pandemic, Japan is still holding back a bit. Only travelers visiting as part of a tour group are able to visit for pleasure purposes. However, Japan has made it easier for Americans and Canadians to apply for the new eVisas to enjoy a visit.

Japan launches new electronic visa scheme

The latest news for Japanese travel is that a new electronic visa scheme has been launched for Americans and Canadian citizens. This makes life easier for those who wish to apply online for a visa for tourism or business purposes.

However, before rushing off to book flights, it is important to note that Japan is still not fully open to international tourists. The borders did open in June, but the country’s entry policy is, to say the least, complicated. The only way international travelers can visit Japan is when accompanied by a local tour guide for the duration of their stay. In other words, only travelers visiting as part of an organized tour group are permitted to enter.

Visa exemptions?

For now, the visa exemption scheme for Japan is also on hold. This means that anyone, including American and Canadian passport holders, must apply for and obtain a tourist visa first. However, the new eVisa scheme will help speed up waiting times. It will also simplify the process by eliminating the need to present documents in person to Japanese embassies or consulates.

So, if you are planning on visiting the bustling city of Tokyo, or visiting amazing Kyoto, the following is what you need to know about visa and entry rules as a tourist visiting Japan.

Japan’s entry rules and COVID-19 regulations

As mentioned, independent travel isn’t possible for now. The country did open its borders to foreign tourists from most nations on June 10. However, those persons must be accompanied by local guides “from entry to departure” as part of package tours.

While many countries have dropped mask mandates completely, Japan is still not taking any chances after more than two years of strict border restrictions. This means that tourists must still wear masks and adhere to other COVID-19 measures while visiting.

The Japan Tourism Agency states:

Tour guides should frequently remind tour participants of necessary infection prevention measures, including wearing and removing masks, at each stage of the tour.

Even outdoors, the wearing of masks should continue in situations where people are conversing in close proximity.

Currently, there is a daily limit on the number of travelers allowed into the country of around 20,000 per day. All are required to take out medical insurance to cover costs should they contract COVID-19.

Every visitor is required to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken within three days of their departure date. They will also need to install the MySOS app, to register their test results.

Previously, Japan offered visa-free entry to citizens of around 68 countries, including Australia, Malaysia, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. However, for now, the foreign ministry says everyone needs a visa, regardless of their departure point.

How Americans and Canadians can apply for an eVisa for Japan

The new eVisa scheme is available for tourists and business travelers and applicants must bear a valid US or Canadian passport. Prior to applying, applicants are required to obtain a certificate for registration to the ERFS (Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System). However, this can also be done via the travel agency that books the organized tour.

Once these documents are in order, applicants can then complete the eVisa application form online through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They must have passport information, travel documents and supporting documents like ERFS handy. Meanwhile, a processing fee will also apply. Once the application is completed and approved, the eVisa will come winging its way via email.

Are eVisas available for other overseas visitors?

No. For now visitors, besides Americans and Canadians visiting Japan on an organized tour still need to apply for a visa in person. They must apply for an ERFS and take it along to a local Japanese embassy or consulate to obtain a visa. Alternatively, they can apply for a visa via their travel agency. The processing time is generally around five working days from receipt of the documents and acceptance.

COVID-19 vaccination requirements

Currently, Japan categorizes countries into blue, yellow, or red, depending on their COVID risk. Those visiting from blue countries do not need to show proof of vaccination. Those countries include Argentina, Australia, Canada, France, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Singapore, the UK, the US and more. View the full list of blue countries here.

Meanwhile, those from yellow or red countries face additional entry requirements, including testing on arrival and mandatory quarantine.

Travelers from yellow and red countries are subject to additional entry requirements such as testing upon arrival and quarantine.

According to officials, it will still be some time until all international travelers can visit for independent tourism as they were before the pandemic. So far, there is no indication as to when this will happen.