Japan passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Japan

Embassy / VFSUS Visitor Visa (B1/B2)

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

Not yet verified

Our latest check could not confirm these details against an official source, or found a conflict. Treat them as a starting point and confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you book.

Last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · US Visitor Visa (B1/B2)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Government fee	$160
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required

How to apply

1
Complete the DS-160 form online
Fill in the Nonimmigrant Visa Application on the CEAC website.
2
Pay the visa application fee
Pay USD 160 (or equivalent in JPY) via the designated payment system.
3
Schedule an appointment
Book an appointment for biometrics and interview at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo or Consulate in Osaka.
4
Attend biometrics appointment
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the embassy/consulate.
5
Attend visa interview
Bring all required documents and answer questions about your travel purpose and ties.
6
Wait for visa processing
Processing time varies; passport will be returned via courier or collected.
7
Receive your passport with visa
If approved, the visa is affixed to your passport and returned to you.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid Passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
Must have at least two blank pages
DS-160 Confirmation Page
Nonimmigrant Visa Application
Photo (5x5 cm, white background)
Taken within the last 6 months

Travel

Return Flight Itinerary
Optional
May be requested to show intent to leave
Hotel Reservation or Invitation Letter
Optional
Proof of accommodation or host details
Travel Itinerary
Optional
Optional but recommended for clarity

Financial

Application Fee Payment Receipt
USD 160 (or equivalent in JPY)
Bank Statements (last 3 months)
Optional
May be requested to show sufficient funds

Employment

Employment Letter / Enrollment Certificate
Optional
To demonstrate ties to Japan

Supporting

Appointment Confirmation
For interview and biometrics

Proof of funds

bank statements
pay slips
sponsor letter

Sufficient funds to cover travel and stay may be requested at interview.

Good to know

ESTA is NOT an option for Japanese passport holders for tourism; you need a B1/B2 visa for long stays or other purposes.
Visa interview is mandatory for all applicants aged 14–79 (some exceptions apply).
Do not book non-refundable flights until visa approval.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to Japan (e.g. no job, family, property)

Provide strong evidence of employment, enrollment, or family responsibilities.

Incomplete or incorrect DS-160 form

Double-check all entries and use the same name as in passport.

Previous visa overstay or violation

Be honest; disclose any prior issues and show positive change.

FAQ

Do citizens of Japan need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Japan need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: US Visitor Visa (B1/B2).

How long can citizens of Japan stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of Japan?

Government fee: $160.

What documents do citizens of Japan need for the United States?

Valid Passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay); DS-160 Confirmation Page; Photo (5x5 cm, white background); Application Fee Payment Receipt; Appointment Confirmation; Return Flight Itinerary; and 4 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/jp/

Sources

ustraveldocs.com

Plan your trip to the United States

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