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Japan for German citizens

No. A visa isn't needed for short stays of up to 90 days for tourism, visiting friends and family, or business meetings. Paid work needs a visa. Recommended, not required: Visit Japan Web.

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Checked against official sources 3 October 2026

Everything German citizens need

  • Not neededNone

    Visa

    Stays of up to 90 days

    Not needed for short stays of up to 90 days for tourism, visiting friends and family, or business meetings. Paid work needs a visa.

    mofa.go.jp
  • RecommendedFree

    Visit Japan Web

    Any time before you fly. Finish at least 6 hours before you land so your QR code is ready.

    Japan's official site for your arrival card and customs declaration. You get one QR code to show at immigration and customs. You can add family members on the same flights to one account. Paper forms are still handed out on the plane.

    Timing, children and what you need vjw.digital.go.jp
  • RequiredNone

    Passport

    For your whole stay

    Your passport needs to be valid for the whole of your stay in Japan. Some airlines ask for more, so check with yours.

  • Good to knowNone

    Passport check at your accommodation

    At check-in

    Hotels, ryokan and private rentals in Japan must record each foreign guest's passport details. Many apartment hosts ask you to complete an online check-in before you arrive.

  • Good to know¥3,000

    International tourist tax

    Charged when you leave Japan

    Charged on every international departure from Japan since 1 July 2026. It's included in your airfare, so there's nothing to fill in.

    mlit.go.jp

Questions

Do German citizens need a visa for Japan?

No. A visa isn't needed for short stays of up to 90 days for tourism, visiting friends and family, or business meetings. Paid work needs a visa.

What forms do German citizens need for Japan?

Visit Japan Web, recommended (Free): Any time before you fly. Finish at least 6 hours before you land so your QR code is ready.

How much does it cost German citizens to enter Japan?

Nothing: every form on this list is free on its official site.

Do children need them too?

Family members on the same flights with the same first accommodation can be added to one account.

How long does my passport need to be valid?

Your passport needs to be valid for the whole of your stay in Japan. Some airlines ask for more, so check with yours.

Rules can change at short notice, so confirm on the official site before you travel. WayReady is an independent company, not a government agency. How we check.