Konnichiwa! How to get a Japan visa from Dubai
Are you planning to travel to Japan for a holiday? If you are keen to explore this fascinating Asian country, getting a tourist visa for Japan from Dubai is not too hard. UAE nationals can travel to Japan visa-free for up to 30 days, while UAE residents can apply for an eVisa.
If you are curious about the application process, this handy guide will take you through the latest procedure to get a Japan visa from Dubai, as it has changed recently. Read on and plan a hassle-free trip to the Land of the Rising Sun.
Japan tourist visa requirements for UAE residents and nationals
Japan’s Foreign Policy exempts passport holders from 68 countries and regions from requiring a visa to enter Japan. This list includes the United Arab Emirates. Therefore, UAE nationals can travel to Japan without a prior visa for up to 30 days for work or tourism. Travellers can visit family, attend business meetings or conferences and explore the country without a visa. UAE national applicants must have a valid, registered ICAO-compliant ePassport for diplomatic missions in Japan.
However, UAE nationals must apply for the appropriate visa to get employed or conduct commercial activities in Japan.
Besides the UAE passport holders, residents from the following countries don’t require a prior Japan visa to travel.
List of Visa-Exempted Countries in the Middle East
- Israel
- Qatar
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates
List of Visa-Exempted Countries in Oceania
- Australia
- New Zealand
List of Visa-Exempted Countries in Asia
- Brunei
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Republic of Korea
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Hong Kong
- Macao
- Taiwan
List of Visa Exempted Countries in North America
- Canada
- United States
List of Visa-Exempted Countries in Europe
- Austria
- Andorra
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Cyprus
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- North Macedonia
- France
- Greece
- Germany
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Iceland
- Italy
- Liechtenstein
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Portugal
- Poland
- Romania
- San Marino
- Serbia
- Slovenia
- Slovakia
- Spain
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom
List of Visa-Exempted Countries in Africa
- Lesotho
- Mauritius
- Tunisia
List of Visa Exempted Countries in Latin America and the Caribbean
- Argentina
- Barbados
- Bahamas
- Costa Rica
- Chile
- Dominican Republic
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Mexico
- Surinam
- Uruguay
The Japanese embassy/consulate may also have additional specifications for short-term visit permissions for some countries listed above without a visa. So, contacting the embassy directly or visiting the official website to inquire before finalising the trip would be ideal.
How to apply for a Japan visit visa from Dubai
As the world continues to open up for travel, many UAE residents are eager to explore the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Japan. However, before embarking on this exciting journey, it is essential to understand the visa application process. This guide will provide you with comprehensive insights into applying for a Japan visa from Dubai, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Understanding Visa Types
When planning a trip to Japan, the first step is determining the visa type you require. The Japanese government offers various visa categories tailored to specific travel purposes. Here are the primary kinds of visas available:
Short Stay Visa
This visa is ideal for tourists, business travellers, or those visiting friends and family. It allows for a stay of up to 90 days. The short stay visa can be further divided into:
- Tourism Visa: For individuals visiting Japan for leisure.
- Business Visa: For those attending meetings, conferences, or conducting market research.
- Family Visit Visa: For visiting relatives or acquaintances residing in Japan.
Long Stay Visa
A long-stay visa is necessary for those intending to stay in Japan for more than 90 days. This category includes visas for students, researchers and individuals seeking employment. Applicants must secure a Certificate of Eligibility from a Japanese organisation before applying.
E-Visa
The e-Visa is convenient for tourists, allowing for a streamlined application process. This electronic visa is valid for a single entry and is issued electronically, eliminating the need for a visa sticker in your passport.
Application Process Overview
The application process for a Japan visa can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can simplify the experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type
Identify the visa category that aligns with your travel purpose. This will dictate the required documents and application procedures.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Each visa type has specific documentation requirements. Common documents include:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- A completed visa application form.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of travel arrangements (flight itinerary, hotel bookings).
- Financial statements to demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay.
Step 3: Book an Appointment
Starting from August 1, 2024, all visa applications must be submitted through VFS Global. Residents of Abu Dhabi will apply at the VFS office in Abu Dhabi, while those in other emirates will visit the Dubai centre. Appointments can be scheduled through the VFS Global website.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
On the day of your appointment, bring all required documents to the VFS Global centre. Ensure you have:
- A printout of your appointment confirmation.
- Your completed visa application form.
- All supporting documents as per your visa type.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Visa fees vary depending on the visa type and nationality. For example, the general fee is AED 80, while Indian nationals pay AED 20. A service fee of AED 100 is also applicable at the VFS centre.
Step 6: Track Your Application
After submission, you can track the status of your visa application online using the reference number provided on your receipt. Processing times typically range from 8 to 10 working days.
Important Considerations
Processing Times
Applying for your visa well before your intended travel date is crucial. The processing time can extend up to four weeks if additional documentation is required or if there are any discrepancies in your application.
Jurisdiction Rules
Be aware of the jurisdiction rules regarding where to submit your application. Residents of Abu Dhabi must apply at the Abu Dhabi VFS centre, while those from Dubai and surrounding emirates should visit the Dubai centre.
Special Cases
Certain nationalities may be exempt from visa fees or may have different requirements. It’s advisable to check with VFS Global for specific details related to your nationality.
Visiting the VFS Global Centre
When visiting the VFS Global centre, ensure you arrive on time and have all necessary documents ready. The centres are open Monday to Friday, from 09:00 am to 05:00 pm.
Dubai Centre Address
- Location: WAFI Mall, Level 2, Falcon, Phase 2, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai 114100, UAE
Abu Dhabi Centre Address
- Location: Level B2, The Mall World Trade Centre, Khalifa Bin Zayed the 1st Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE
How much is the Japan Visit Visa Fee in Dubai?
Generally, the Japan visa cost from Dubai for a single entry visa is AED 82 (equivalent to 3,000 Japanese Yen). The price may differ for different nationalities in some cases.
How much time does it take for Japan visa processing in Dubai?
The entire process takes a minimum of four weeks in general. It has been reported to take around six weeks due to the higher volume of applications.
Please note that this is the expected turnaround time, provided there are no issues with the submitted documents. In case of complications, the visa process can take over a month. This is why travellers must apply well before the planned travel date.
Consulate General of Japan Location and Information
If you have any queries, contact the Japanese Consulate General.
- Location: 28th Floor, Dubai World Trade Centre
- Contact: +971-4-293-8888
- Working Hours: Visa application: 08:00 am to 12:00 pm (Monday to Thursday) and 08:00 am to 11:00 am on Fridays | Visa collection: 12:00 pm to 03:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
FAQs – How to Apply for a Japan Visa in Dubai
Why do some visa applications for Japan get rejected?
Your visa application for Japan can be rejected for various reasons.
- The attached documents are invalid.
- The application form is incomplete or not filled out correctly.
- The documents submitted for the visa process are not complete.
- The applicant has a pending request for issuing a Certificate of Eligibility.
- Applicants already have a visit permit and are applying again.
- The visa has already been processed at another Japanese embassy/ consulate.
An applicant wants to postpone the trip to Japan. How long will their visa stay valid?
The single-entry visa is valid for three months after its issuance. If you plan to postpone your visit for over three months, you must reapply.
Why do some applicants need to submit additional documents?
Every application is different, so the general list of necessary documents is sometimes insufficient. The embassy or the consulate cannot inform you if they require additional documents before applying. For instance, Japan visit visa from Dubai requirements is not the same as those for a business or tourist visa.
How can I apply for a USA visa from Dubai?
Are you planning a trip to the land of the free? Here’s a look at the USA visa application process from Dubai.
There’s good news for those travelling from the capital city to America. Abu Dhabi US immigration process allows preclearance, which means less hassle when travelling.
I have a question regarding my Japan Visa application. Who should I contact?
UAE residents can use the dedicated 24-hour Japan Visa Information hotline, 800-032-1271, available throughout the week.
Where can I travel without having to apply for a visa?
Do you want to escape the hassle of applying for a visa? Visa-free countries for UAE residents, such as Sri Lanka and the Maldives, offer many activities and adventures. These locations are perfect for a spontaneous trip without the dreaded visa application process.
Being one of the oldest civilisations and one of the most technologically advanced countries, Japan is a fantastic destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the rich culture, enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine and observe exciting traditions.
If you are struck by wanderlust and would love to explore other destinations, you can consult with a well-known travel and tourism company in Dubai to plan a perfect holiday. You can also apply for Italy visa from Dubai for a European adventure. Another excellent option is applying for a Türkiye visa from Dubai.
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Nice info