The property has to be registered with the relevant authority, and only approved apartments and villas can be listed for short-term rentals
life and living1 week ago
[Editor's note: Japan announced resumption of e-visa services from August 1, 2024, after a brief suspension, as published in an article on July 29. The service will now be provided through VFS Global. Details provided below may change accordingly.]
What do you like to do when you travel? Do you prefer taking in the history and culture of a foreign land, or checking out the nightlife? Maybe you choose to spend the day relaxing in the spa, or hiking and taking in the beauty of nature.
Whichever activity floats your boat, you can do it to your heart's content in Japan. The island nation has long been a sought-after tourist destination, seeing over 2.4 million international visitors in November 2023, according to the official Japan tourism website.
With tourism surpassing 2019 pre-pandemic levels, Japan has made it easier than ever for international visitors to reach the country. In 2023, an e-visa was introduced for tourism purposes. The new permit streamlines entry procedures for nationalities that require a visa to enter Japan.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
As of November 2022, UAE nationals no longer need an entry permit to Japan, but for the other residents in the Emirates who do need one, an e-visa is readily available for online application. If you are not sure if you need a visa to visit Japan, you can check the list of countries on the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Here are some facts about the e-visa, and how to apply online.
The e-visa is a new system introduced by the Japanese government to ease travel for tourism. It allows international visitors to submit their applications and documents online. The entire process from application and payment to issuance can be done online.
The reason for visit must be tourism only. The e-visa is not applicable for those travelling to visit relatives and friends or for business purposes.
In 2023, Japan released a list of countries whose residents are allowed to apply for the e-visa for tourism. The nations are: Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA.
The Japan short-term e-visa allows foreigners entry into the country for 90 days. It is a single-entry visa. It is valid for three months from the date of issuance.
According to the official website of the Japanese embassy in Dubai, the e-visa can take around four weeks to be processed.
Single-entry visas cost most nationalities Dh80. For Indians, the cost is Dh20. There are some nationalities for whom the visa fee is exempted. This list can be found on the Japan embassy website.
You can check the exact documents required for your nationality on the Japan embassy websites. These are the general documents to gather:
- The first step is to check your documents on the Japan e-visa website.
- You will then be required to make a username and password.
- Click on new registration and fill out the application form. You will be required to fill out your personal details as well as travel information.
- Once you click submit, the status of your application will be 'Temporarily received'. The application will be examined and you may be asked to submit additional documents.
- The next step is the visa fee payment (if eligible). Once you have paid, you will receive a confirmation.
- You can download the Japan e-visa app and log in to receive your e-visa. This can be shown to the immigration officer or other officials as your visa to Japan.
ALSO READ:
The property has to be registered with the relevant authority, and only approved apartments and villas can be listed for short-term rentals
life and living1 week ago
Are partial payments allowed? What if you don't have a bank card to pay online? This guide answers some of frequently asked questions
life and living1 week ago
The trees will be handed along with a guidebook to ensure they are planted and maintained correctly
life and living1 week ago
In February 2024, during a visit from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to UAE, an agreement was signed, NRIs to make UPI transactions
life and living1 week ago
There are several apps that can help — however, most scholars agree that slight errors in direction would be forgiven
life and living1 week ago
A student behaviour policy in schools must outline acceptable corrective actions, which are proportionate, age-appropriate, and aligned with disciplinary guidelines
life and living2 weeks ago
From theatre and live entertainment to galleries and conferences, this versatile building in Downtown Dubai hosts a wide variety of events
life and living2 weeks ago
The city has an efficient marine transport system apart from buses, metro, tram and taxis
life and living2 weeks ago