Planning to visit Japan from the UAE?
If you’re a UAE citizen, you don’t need a visa to travel to Japan for stays of up to 90 days.
However, UAE residents (non-citizens) must apply for a Japan visa before traveling.
The good news?
As of 2025, Japan has introduced the Japan eVisa for UAE residents.
This means you no longer need to visit the Japanese embassy or consulate – you can apply online at your convenience.
As visa experts in the UAE, we’re here to guide you through the exact steps to apply for your Japan Visa for UAE residents easily, quickly, and smoothly.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How to apply for the Japan Visa (Sticker Visa, Japan eVisa, and Multiple Entry Visa)
- Visa fees you need to pay
- Common mistakes to avoid when applying
If you’re living in the UAE and dreaming of Japan, this is your quick path to getting there.
Let’s begin!
Do You Need a Japan Visa as a UAE Resident?
If you’re planning a trip to Japan from the UAE, it’s important to know the visa rules based on your nationality.
UAE citizens- those who hold a UAE passport – can now visit Japan without a visa. They’re allowed to stay in Japan for up to 90 days for tourism or short visits.
However, if you’re an expat resident in the UAE, like an Indian, Filipino, Pakistani, or any other nationality, you will need to apply for a Japan eVisa for UAE residents before your trip. This online visa system makes it easier and faster to get your travel documents approved.
So, if you’re an expat living in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE and planning a vacation to Japan, you must apply for a Japan visit visa from Dubai before booking your flight.
Whether you’re planning a cultural getaway or hoping to experience the magic of Japan’s Cherry Blossom season, make sure to check the latest visa guidelines and prepare your documents in advance for a smooth travel experience.
Japan Visa Options for UAE Residents
If you’re a UAE resident planning a trip to Japan, you have two main ways to apply for your visa: the new Japan e visa or the traditional sticker visa through Japan VFS. Here’s a simple comparison to help you choose the best option based on your situation.
a) Japan e-Visa (Online, Launched May 2025)
This is the most convenient way for most UAE expats to apply for a Japan visa from Dubai or anywhere in the UAE.
- Apply directly through the official MOFA Japan website
- Visa is valid for tourism and short-term visits
- The entire application process is online- no need to visit any office
- Ideal for most travelers living in Dubai and other Emirates
b) Traditional Sticker Visa (via VFS Japan)
Some applicants still need to go the traditional route, especially if their case is more complex or they aim to stay longer than 30 days. If you are planning to stay beyond 30 days. Here is what you have to do
- Submit your documents physically at the Japan VFS center
- You will receive a sticker visa in your passport after approval
Whether you apply online or through VFS, make sure to follow the right steps to avoid delays. The Japan visa from Dubai process has become more flexible, especially with the e-Visa option now available.
Who Can Apply for a Japan e-Visa from the UAE?
To apply for a Japan e visa for UAE residents, you must meet certain conditions. Here’s a quick checklist to help you see if you’re eligible:
- You must hold a UAE residency visa that is valid for at least 3 months
- Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel
- You should have a clean travel history with no legal or immigration issues
- You need to show confirmed flight bookings and hotel reservations
- Your visa application will be processed based on your emirate of residence (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc).
If you meet these requirements, you’re likely eligible to apply for a Japan travel visa through the e-Visa system. This process is simpler and quicker, especially for tourists visiting Japan for a short stay.
Step-by-Step Guide: Japan Visa from Dubai
Here’s a step-by-step application process for each type of Japan visa from Dubai, covering Sticker Visa, Japan eVisa, and Multiple Entry Visa for UAE residents:
1. Choose the visa type
You can apply for one of the following:
- Sticker Visa – Single-entry visa with a physical sticker, usually for tourism or short visits.
- eVisa – Electronic visa issued online, but the application must be submitted through VFS. No passport submission is required.
- Multiple Entry Visa – For frequent travelers or those meeting financial criteria. Issued as a sticker visa.
2. Book an appointment with VFS Japan Dubai
- Go to the official VFS Japan Dubai website.
- Select your visa type (Sticker, eVisa, or Multiple Entry).
- Choose a date and time for your appointment.
- Save or print your appointment confirmation.
3. Prepare the required documents
Documents vary slightly by visa type, but generally include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport (minimum 2 blank pages)
- UAE residence visa copy
- One passport-size photo (white background, recent)
- Confirmed flight itinerary
- Hotel reservation
- Personal bank statements (last 3 months)
- No Objection Letter from the employer or sponsor
For Multiple Entry Visa:
Also include a personal cover letter, proof of income or high financial standing, and records of past visits to Japan (if any).
4. Visit VFS to submit your application
- Arrive at VFS Japan on your appointment date.
- Submit your application form and all required documents.
- For Sticker Visa and Multiple Entry, submit your passport.
- For eVisa, passports are scanned only – no need to leave them with them.
5. Pay the visa and service fees
- Pay the visa fee and the VFS service charge at the counter.
- Keep the payment receipt for tracking and collection purposes.
6. Wait for processing
- Processing usually takes 5 to 7 working days.
- You will receive an email or SMS when your application has been processed.
- You can also track your application status on the VFS website.
7. Receive your visa
- For Sticker Visa and Multiple Entry, collect your passport from VFS or choose the courier delivery option.
- For eVisa, VFS will send you an approval link. You must download and print the visa or keep a digital copy to show during travel.
Also Read: How to Get an India e-Visa from the UAE- Ultimate Guide
Checklist: Required Documents for Japan Tourist Visa from UAE
To apply smoothly, make sure you have all the necessary Japan visa documents that UAE residents must submit. Here’s a simple checklist:
- Passport copy (must be valid for at least 6 months)
- UAE residence visa (valid for 3 months or more)
- Emirates ID copy
- Passport-size photo (white background, 45×35 mm)
- Employment letter (stamped, stating your job title, salary, and start date)
- Bank statement (last 3 months, stamped by the bank)
- Hotel reservation (confirmed booking)
- Travel itinerary (including flight details and planned travel dates)
These documents are essential when applying for a Japan tourist visa from the UAE, especially through the e-Visa system. As you plan your tourist itinerary, it’s also a good idea to consider the best time to visit Japan to fully enjoy the country’s top tourism highlights.
Don’t forget to prepare everything in advance to avoid delays.
Click here to download this handy checklist to stay organized while preparing your Japan tourist visa documents. Save or print it for easy reference.
Japan Visa Fees and Service Charges (UAE)
Here’s a clear comparison of the Japan visa fees UAE residents can expect, depending on the application method.
| Visa Type | Fee (AED) | Details |
| e‑Visa (Single Entry) | 80 AED | Payable online through the official portal |
| e‑Visa (Multiple Entry) | 160 AED | Not always available; depends on approval |
| VFS Service Fee | 100–110 AED | Charged for an in-person Japan visa application at VFS centers. (Includes 5% VAT in some cases) |
The e-Visa is often more affordable and convenient, while the VFS submission includes additional service charges for manual processing. Choose the option that best fits your needs and travel plans.
It’s also important to apply in advance to avoid last-minute stress or complications. Knowing the Japan travel visa processing time will help you plan your trip as smoothly and stress-free as possible.
So, here it is for you.
Processing Time and Validity for Japan Travel Visa
When applying for a Japan travel visa, it’s important to plan and understand the processing time and validity:
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Reminder: Avoid last-minute applications, especially during peak travel seasons (like holidays), as delays may occur.
If you’re applying for a Japan eVisa, submit your application early to ensure approval in time for your trip.
If you’re not eligible for the Japan eVisa and need a sticker visa instead, here are the places where you can apply.
VFS Japan Visa Submission in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
While the Japan e visa is convenient for many UAE residents, some still need to apply through Japan VFS, especially in certain cases or locations.
Here’s how it works:
Dubai and Northern Emirates residents can apply for a Japan visa from Dubai through VFS Global Dubai.
Abu Dhabi residents must apply directly at the Embassy of Japan in Abu Dhabi.
Japan VFS handles tasks like biometric collection, document submission, and passport return for in-person applications.
This method is usually required if your case is complex or if you are applying for a type of visa not supported by the e-Visa system. Make sure to check your emirate’s jurisdiction before starting the application.
No matter how careful you are, there’s always a chance of making mistakes- especially if you’re handling everything on your own.
As a visa agency in Dubai, we’ve observed some common mistakes that travelers from the UAE often make when applying for a Japan visa.
Please read carefully to avoid visa rejection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Japan Visa
- Uploading a low-resolution photo or a photo that doesn’t meet the size requirements
- Forgetting to include important documents like your bank statement or employment letter
- Choosing the wrong emirate jurisdiction (applying through Dubai when you should use Abu Dhabi, or vice versa)
- Not checking your email spam or junk folder for the visa confirmation or approval message
- Submitting an incorrect or outdated scan of your Emirates ID or UAE residence visa
Avoiding these mistakes will help your Japan travel visa application go smoothly and reduce delays.
A visa is your official approval to enter a foreign country, and getting that approval requires careful planning and accurate documentation.
Visa rules also change from time to time, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information from the embassy.
As a traveler, it may not always be possible to track every update, but that’s where an agency like The Visa Guy can help.
With us, your visa process becomes easier, smoother, and stress-free.
Get in touch with us for your Japan visit visa from the UAE.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a Japan visa from Sharjah?
Yes, if you live in Sharjah or any Northern Emirates, you can apply for a Japan e‑Visa online or submit your documents through the VFS center in Dubai.
2. Can minors apply for a Japan e‑Visa?
Yes, minors can apply for a Japan e-Visa, but their application must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian with all required documents.
3. Do I need to visit VFS if I applied online?
No, if you apply for the Japan e visa online and your application is approved, you don’t need to visit VFS. You will receive a digital visa to show at the airport.
4. How long is the visa valid?
The Japan visa is valid for 3 months from the date it is issued. You must enter Japan within this period.
5. What if I need to extend my stay?
Japan allows a maximum stay of 90 days on a tourist visa. Extensions are rarely granted, so it’s best to plan your trip within the visa duration.
6. Can UAE residents apply for a multiple-entry Japan visa?
Multiple-entry Japan visas are available, but usually for frequent travelers or business visitors. Check eligibility before applying.
7. How soon should I apply before my travel date?
Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to allow enough time for processing, especially during busy seasons.
8. What payment methods are accepted for the Japan e visa?
You can pay the e-Visa fee online using credit or debit cards.
9. Can I use my tourist visa for business purposes?
No, a tourist visa is only for sightseeing and leisure. For business trips, apply for the appropriate visa type.
10. How long does it take to process the Japan eVisa?
The processing time for the Japan eVisa is typically five working days from the date of application submission. It’s advisable to apply for the eVisa well in advance of your intended travel dates to allow for sufficient processing time. However, currently it is taking up to 3 weeks.
11. Are there any restrictions or limitations on the Japan eVisa?
The Japan eVisa allows for a short-term stay of up to 90 days for tourism purposes. It does not permit employment or other activities not related to tourism. If you have a different purpose for your visit to Japan, you may need to apply for a different type of visa.
12. What are the required documents for the Japan eVisa?
To apply for the Japan eVisa, you will need to submit the following documents:
- Passport copy
- Recent passport photo (taken within six months)
- Emirates ID copy (front and back)
- Itinerary with flight information
- Schedule of stay (entry and departure dates)
- Hotel information
- Certificate of employment, NOC from employer.
- Bank statement for at least three months
13. Can I submit additional documents along with the required ones for the eVisa application?
No, you must only upload the documents specifically mentioned as required. If any additional documents are uploaded, the application may be terminated, and you will need to reapply.
