South Africa passport → Japan

Japan visa for citizens of South Africa

Q: What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Japan?

Valid passport (original + copy of photo page); Passport-style photograph (45mm x 35mm); Visa application form (QR code generated); Itinerary / Schedule of stay; Round-trip flight reservation; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); and 4 more.

Q: Where do I apply?

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

Embassy / VFSeVisa · Short-term stay (Tourist/Business/Transit)

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

Official application site

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 · Short-term stay (Tourist/Business/Transit)
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	1–5 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

1
Prepare required documents
Gather all documents listed above, including scanned copies of your passport, photo, itinerary, bank statements, and employment letter.
2
Create account on JAPAN eVISA portal
Go to https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp/ and register a personal account with a valid email address.
3
Complete application form online
Fill in all required fields (personal info, travel details, purpose of visit) and upload digital copies of the required documents.
4
Pay visa fee (if required)
Currently the eVisa for South African passport holders is free; if a fee is introduced, pay via the portal using a credit card.
5
Print application confirmation with QR code
After submission, the system generates a PDF with a QR code — print this to present at the airport check-in.
6
Wait for eVisa approval
Processing typically takes 1 to 5 business days. Check your account for status updates.
7
Receive eVisa via email
Once approved, the eVisa will be linked to your passport number. No sticker in passport.
8
Travel to Japan
Present the printed confirmation page with QR code at airline check-in and upon arrival at Japanese immigration (if asked).
9
Enter Japan
Immigration officer will scan the QR code and may ask brief questions. Max stay is 30 days (single entry).

Documents checklist

Identity

Passport-style photograph (45mm x 35mm)
Taken within the last 6 months, white background.
Passport copy (data page only)
Clear color photocopy.

Travel

Valid passport (original + copy of photo page)
Must have at least 2 blank pages and be valid for the entire stay in Japan.
Itinerary / Schedule of stay
Detailed day-by-day plan including accommodation and flight details.
Round-trip flight reservation
Confirmed or reserved itinerary showing entry and exit from Japan.
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
For each night of stay.

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Original or certified copy showing sufficient balance.

Employment

Employment letter or proof of enrollment
Dated within 1 month, stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Visa application form (QR code generated)
Complete online via JAPAN eVISA system and print the application form with QR code.
Visa fee payment receipt (if applicable)
Optional
Currently eVisa issuance is free for eligible nationalities; check during application.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of approx. ¥100,000 (roughly 12,000 ZAR) for the trip

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Credit card statements
Letter from bank showing balance

Proof of sufficient funds is mandatory; can include combined savings and available credit.

Good to know

The eVisa is only for certain nationalities; South African passport holders are eligible but must apply from their country of residence.
The eVisa is single entry only; any exit from Japan voids it.
eVisa approval does not guarantee entry – final decision is made by immigration officers at the port of entry.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all entries for accuracy and completeness before submission.

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements showing stable funds; include a cover letter if needed.

Invalid or expiring passport (<6 months validity)

Renew passport before applying.

Previous overstay in Japan or other countries

Ensure clean immigration history; if in doubt, consult the embassy before applying.

Suspicious travel purpose or itinerary

Provide a genuine, detailed itinerary with confirmed flights and hotels.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Japan?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Japan and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: eVisa · Short-term stay (Tourist/Business/Transit).

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Japan?

Up to 30 days.

How long does Japan visa processing take?

Typically 1–5 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Japan?