Applying for a Japanese Visa

I recently planned a trip to Japan, so I applied for a Japanese visa in advance. I found that even in 2025, it’s still quite complicated, though it’s relatively simpler when handled through a company. Here’s a record of the application process for future reference.

Note: The following is the complete process I went through in Beijing. It’s generally the same everywhere, but still follow the travel agency’s requirements carefully.

Choosing a Travel Agency

Japanese visas can only be processed through travel agencies, which is also stated on the official website. There are many travel agencies to choose from. I prioritized internet-based travel companies like Ctrip, Qunar, and Mafengwo. After a quick comparison, I ultimately chose Ctrip.

Notes

1. Always choose reputable travel agencies as they are relatively more standardized and secure, though prices might be higher.
2. For agencies like Ctrip/Qunar, always choose their self-operated services for better reliability.

Single Entry, Three Years, or Five Years?

Different types have different prices and different documentation requirements. Since I don’t have much savings and have a low income, I ultimately chose a 3-year multiple entry visa, which costs 488 CNY on Ctrip. It’s all because I’m poor - otherwise I would prefer the 5-year visa.

Notes

1. Choose the option that includes flight and hotel documentation assistance, because visa applications require flight/hotel information, but we often can’t fully confirm our plans or when the visa will be approved. To avoid losses, it’s better to get the visa first, then buy tickets and book hotels.
2. If you have sufficient savings or high income, you can choose the 5-year multiple entry visa, which is definitely more cost-effective.

Document Preparation

Ctrip provides very detailed instructions about documents. Here I’ll briefly highlight the key points:

1. Original passport
2. Original photos
   • 2 inches, white background
   • Recommended to take photos at home against a wall. Apps like Alipay support one-click background replacement, then you can buy photo printing services on JD.com. For example, I printed photos for 2 people on JD for only 14 CNY.
3. ID card photocopy
4. Household registration book photocopy
   • If you’re from outside Beijing like me, you also need residence permit photocopy and original residence permit confirmation
5. Tax statement photocopy
6. Marriage certificate photocopy
7. Original application form
   • Personal signature required
8. Applicant information processing consent form
   • Personal signature required

Visa Application Process

Ctrip’s process is already very professional and clear, so just follow the steps above:

1. Confirm you meet the requirements and place an online order.
2. Prepare documents.
3. Submit documents - Ctrip online review.
   • Ctrip provides an online document submission portal. After submission, results come within one business day. If there are issues with documents, they will notify you.
4. After Ctrip pre-approval - mail documents.
   • Make sure to confirm no documents are missing, otherwise you’ll have to mail again and waste time.
   • If there are document issues, Ctrip will call to notify you, so pay attention to phone calls.
5. Wait for visa approval, usually 7 business days.

Final Thoughts

Life is short, we need to explore. If you have time, I still recommend going out to see the world.

Related Links

• Ctrip - Japan Individual Tourist Visa 3-Year Multiple Entry Beijing Submission - Simplified Processing