Samoa passport → Japan

Japan visa for citizens of Samoa

Embassy / VFSeVisa (e-Visa) · Based on residence

Citizens of Samoa need a visa for Japan and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · eVisa (e-Visa) · Based on residence
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	Up to 5 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Equivalent of approximately USD 3,000 for the stay

How to apply

1
Check eligibility
Ensure you reside in one of the eligible countries: Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, India, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, UAE, UK, USA, or other listed jurisdictions.
2
Prepare documents
Scan passport, photo, residence proof, itinerary, hotel bookings, bank statements, employment letter, and flight ticket.
3
Complete online application
Log in to the official Japan eVisa portal and fill in personal, passport, and travel details exactly as they appear on the passport.
4
Upload documents and photo
Upload scanned copies of all required documents in PDF or JPEG format as specified on the portal.
5
Pay visa fee
Pay the applicable visa fee online using credit card or other accepted payment method.
6
Submit application
Review all entries and submit the application; you will receive a reference number.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes up to 5 business days; check application status online.
8
Receive eVisa result
If approved, download the eVisa notice (PDF) from the portal; no physical visa sticker or stamp is affixed.
9
Travel with eVisa printout
Carry a printed copy of the eVisa notice and present it with your passport at immigration in Japan.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond stay and contain two blank pages.
Digital passport photo
45mm x 35mm, white background, taken within last 6 months.
Visa application form completed online
Through the official eVisa portal before upload.

Travel

Travel itinerary
Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Japan.
Hotel reservations
Confirmed accommodation covering entire stay.
Onward/return flight ticket
Proof of departure from Japan.

Financial

Bank statements or proof of funds
Last 3 months showing sufficient balance for stay.

Employment

Employment letter or proof of occupation
Stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Proof of residence in eligible country
e.g. residence card, visa, or long-term stay permit in Australia, UK, USA, etc.
Copy of previous Japanese visa (if any)
Optional
May support application history.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of approximately USD 3,000 for the stay

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsor letter

Sufficient funds must cover accommodation, living expenses, and return travel.

Good to know

eVisa is only available if you reside in an eligible country — not solely based on nationality.
The eVisa is single entry and strictly for tourism or short business visit (no paid activities).
Ensure passport has at least six months validity from the date of arrival in Japan.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all scanned copies are clear and match the requested requirements exactly.

Insufficient funds proof

Provide bank statements that clearly show adequate balance for the entire stay.

Mismatch in personal details

Ensure the online form exactly matches the passport and residence permit details.

Travel or residence not proven

Include confirmed flight and hotel bookings, and valid residence proof from the eligible country.

FAQ

Do citizens of Samoa need a visa for Japan?

Citizens of Samoa need a visa for Japan and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: eVisa (e-Visa) · Based on residence.

How long can citizens of Samoa stay in Japan?

Up to 30 days.

How long does Japan visa processing take?

Typically Up to 5 days.

What documents do citizens of Samoa need for Japan?

Valid passport; Digital passport photo; Proof of residence in eligible country; Travel itinerary; Hotel reservations; Onward/return flight ticket; and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Japan?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp/

Sources

evisa.mofa.go.jp

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