Japan visa requirements for Germany citizens (2026)

Do Germany citizens need a visa for Japan?

No visa needed for a tourist visit. Bring a valid passport, onward ticket and proof of funds.

Germany passport holders can currently enter 148 destinations visa-free or with a visa on arrival, and 36 more with an online ETA or e-Visa. Japan admits 74 of 198 passports without a full visa (visa-free, on arrival or ETA).

What to bring to Japan

• Passport valid for the whole stay (many countries expect 6 months beyond arrival)
• Return or onward ticket
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host address)
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank card or recent statement)
• Any arrival card or registration the destination asks for

General checklist for this type of entry — not an official list. Requirements vary by purpose and personal circumstances; we confirm the exact list for your case when you apply.

Japan visa cost

There is no visa fee for a visa-free visit, though some countries charge arrival, tourism or departure taxes.

Entering Japan: step by step

1. Check your passport validity and blank pages.
2. Book a return or onward ticket — airlines may ask for it at check-in.
3. Complete any free arrival card or registration before you fly.
4. Carry proof of accommodation and funds for the border officer.

Arrival card: Visit Japan Web

Optional online pre-registration of immigration and customs details (QR codes); not an entry permit. Official site: services.digital.go.jp/en/visit-japan-web. Beware of look-alike sites that charge for free forms.

Recent Japan entry rule changes

• 2026-06-05: Law creating JESTA (Japan’s electronic travel authorisation) was promulgated; it is not operating yet and is planned to start by fiscal year 2028.

Entry tips for Japan

• Visa-required nationals resident in certain countries (e.g. US, UK, Canada, Australia) can apply for a single-entry tourist e-Visa.
• Local currency is Japanese yen (JPY) — carry a card that works abroad and some cash for arrival costs.
• Buy travel medical insurance that covers your whole stay.
• An eSIM bought before you fly means data as soon as you land — handy for showing bookings at immigration.

Japan at a glance

Sources & last verified

The visa requirement on this page is derived from the open passport-index dataset (updated 17 Feb 2026) and has not been individually verified by our team. Documents and steps are general guidance. Always verify with the official source before travel.