---
title: United States visa for citizens of Japan
description: "Citizens of Japan need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: $160. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-states/japan
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# United States visa for citizens of Japan

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

*Not yet verified · last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

> 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.

Official application site: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/jp/

## 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

- **Valid Passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)** (Identity): Must have at least two blank pages
- **DS-160 Confirmation Page** (Identity): Nonimmigrant Visa Application
- **Photo (5x5 cm, white background)** (Identity): Taken within the last 6 months
- **Application Fee Payment Receipt** (Financial): USD 160 (or equivalent in JPY)
- **Appointment Confirmation** (Supporting): For interview and biometrics
- **Return Flight Itinerary** (Travel, optional): May be requested to show intent to leave
- **Hotel Reservation or Invitation Letter** (Travel, optional): Proof of accommodation or host details
- **Bank Statements (last 3 months)** (Financial, optional): May be requested to show sufficient funds
- **Employment Letter / Enrollment Certificate** (Employment, optional): To demonstrate ties to Japan
- **Travel Itinerary** (Travel, optional): Optional but recommended for clarity

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.ustraveldocs.com/jp/)

## More

- [United States visa for every passport](/visa/united-states)
- [Every destination for Japan passport holders](/visa/passport/japan)