What is the validity period of a Japanese tourist visa and how can it be extended?

1.Validity Period of Japanese Tourist Visa

Single-Entry Tourist Visa

• Validity: Must enter Japan within 3 months after issuance (e.g., if issued on April 1, 2025, entry must be before July 1).

• Duration of Stay: Up to 15 days after entry.

Three-Year Multiple-Entry Visa

• Validity: Can enter Japan multiple times within 3 years.

• Single Stay: Up to 30 days per entry, with a cumulative total not exceeding 180 days per year.

Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visa

• Validity: Can enter Japan multiple times within 5 years.

• Single Stay: Up to 90 days per entry, with a cumulative total not exceeding 180 days per year.

Note: Validity period ≠ duration of stay. The actual number of days of stay is subject to the stamp on the passport by the customs upon entry.

2. How to Extend the Visa

Extension within Japan

(1)  Eligibility

• Only applicable for extending the stay due to force majeure such as illness or disaster.

• Application must be made 1 month before the visa expires, and the total stay must not exceed 6 months.

(2)  Application Materials

• Passport, residence card, reason for extension letter (e.g., hospital certificate), and financial proof (≥500,000 yen in savings).

• Handling fee of 4,000 yen, with approval taking approximately 5-7 working days.Extension Outside Japan

• Requires reapplication for a visa through the Japanese embassy or consulate, with a low success rate and a processing time of 1-2 months.

Important Reminders:

• In principle, a tourist visa can only be extended once. Overstaying may result in fines or entry restrictions.

• For long-term visas (e.g., work/study), the "extension of residence status" procedure must be followed.