Japan Visa For UAE Residents From Dubai Apply Online Documents 2025
Planning a trip to Japan? As a UAE resident or passport holder, it’s essential to understand the updated visa requirements for your journey.
Starting August 1, 2024, there are significant changes to the visa application process. The Consulate-General of Japan in Dubai will no longer accept direct applications, as they have entrusted VFS Global to manage visa applications moving forward.
This means that you’ll need to apply through VFS Global for your eVisa, except for Diplomatic and Official visas, which will still be processed directly by the consulate.
UAE nationals no longer need an entry permit to visit Japan! If you intend to stay in Japan for more than 30 days, you will need to apply for a Japan eVisa. However, if you hold residency in the UAE and require an entry permit, rest assured that the eVisa is available for easy online application.
In this guide, I will share with you everything you need to know to apply for your Japan eVisa, from the necessary documents to the application steps, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun.
If you are applying for a visa and are not a UAE national (for example, if you are from Pakistan, India, or any other country), please ensure you complete the following documents:
When applying for a Japan visa, it is essential to submit all documents in English or Japanese only. Below is a detailed checklist of required items to help guide you through the application process.
Visa Application Form
Complete the visa application form. You can either type it out or fill it in using block letters.
All details in the form are mandatory, and it must be originally signed by you. Ensure that the declaration section is filled out completely.
For nationals of Russia, CIS countries, Ukraine, and Georgia, you must provide 2 sets of originally signed application forms.
Photograph
Include 1 recent high-resolution photograph with a white background. The photo should not be older than 6 months.
The photo must be glued (not stapled) to the application form.
For nationals of Russia, CIS countries, Ukraine, and Georgia, you need to submit 2 photos.
Original Passport and Copy
You must submit your original passport and a colored copy of the passport, including the UAE residence visa.
If your UAE visa is in an old passport, you need to submit both the old and new passports.
Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days beyond your return date from Japan and must have more than 2 blank visa pages.
UAE Residence Visa and Emirates ID
Provide a copy of your valid UAE residence visa sticker.
Include a copy of your Emirates ID. The original Emirates ID must be presented at the visa center.
Air Ticket
Submit proof of your air ticket. This can be in the form of a provisional or confirmed e-ticket, flight information slip, or voucher from a travel agency.
Hotel Booking
Include a hotel booking that contains full details of your stay, including:
Hotel name
Contact details of the hotel
Address of the hotel
Your name
Schedule of Stay/Itinerary
Prepare a detailed itinerary outlining your daily activities in Japan, including accommodation information and contact details. You can find templates online to assist with this.
No Objection Certificate (NOC)
If you are employed, you must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer. This document must include:
The company seal and a wet signature from the responsible person, along with their name and position.
The position, monthly/annual income, and a detailed purpose of travel must be stated.
The letter should be addressed to the Consul-General of Japan in Dubai.
If you are a partner, owner, or hold a Golden Visa, your company must provide a letter. If you are sponsored by a Free Zone, an NOC issued by the Free Zone is also required.
The NOC should explicitly mention no objection to travel to Japan.
If the certificate is electronically generated, it must include the original company seal unless it states “Electronically Generated.”
Proof of Financial Means
Provide an up-to-date bank statement (e-statements are acceptable) for the last 3 months. The statement must include the account holder’s name and account details and should be dated no older than 10 days from the date of application.
Additional Requirements for Dependent Visa Holders
Those under dependent visas who work in the UAE must provide an additional NOC from their UAE visa sponsor along with:
A copy of the sponsor’s passport and UAE residence visa.
Dependents applying independently must submit:
A Certificate of Employment (or salary certificate) from the visa sponsor.
If the visa sponsor holds owner status (like Managing Director, Manager, or Investor) sponsored by a Free Zone, a sponsored letter from the Free Zone Authority is required.
A bank statement from the visa sponsor for the last 3 months if they are covering travel expenses.
A letter of guarantee if the sponsor is paying for the trip.
A No Objection Letter for traveling from the UAE sponsors.
For minor children, a NOC from both parents is required with original signatures. This must include:
A copy of the visa sponsor’s passport and UAE residence visa.
A certificate to prove kinship (such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate).
Additional Group Trip Requirements for Japan Visa
If you are part of a group trip organized by a university, college, or school, you will need:
A letter from the institution confirming:
Parental or guardian consent for the trip.
Financial responsibility for the trip (e.g., confirmation that payments have been received from parents).
The institution’s responsibility for logistical support in Japan and compliance with Japanese laws and regulations.
Travel dates.
A list of all applicants, including their full names, nationalities, and passport numbers.
A schedule of stay or daily activity list for the group.
For minor children, a NOC from both parents is required with original signatures, along with copies of the parents’ passports, visas, and Emirates IDs.
Japan E Visa Photo Specifications for UAE Residents
When submitting your visa application, please include one photograph that meets the following criteria:
Recency: The photo must be taken within the last 6 months.
Size: Dimensions should be 45 mm x 35 mm.
Background: Use a plain color background (no patterns).
Pose: Ensure your face is clearly visible, looking straight at the camera.
Printing: Avoid using any textured paper for printing the photo.
Please keep in mind that the Embassy may ask for a new photo if it does not comply with these specifications.
How to Apply Online Japan E Visa for UAE Residents
Japan has now implemented a new process for applying for a tourist visa. I will discuss how to submit your application and additional tips and tricks for obtaining this visa.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, it’s essential to apply for your visa at least two weeks before your planned departure date. However, for added peace of mind, I recommend applying three weeks in advance.
Look for the option that says “I’m applying from.”
If you’re in the UAE, select UAE.
Next, select Japan as the country for which you are applying.
Click on “Take me to the website.” This will direct you to the section specifically for Japanese visas, where you’ll find all the details you need.
On the Japan visa page, find and click on “Book an Appointment.”
Read the instructions carefully on the next page about what to keep in mind when booking your appointment.
Make sure to choose the correct visa center based on your location:
If you live in Dubai, Sharjah, or Ajman, select the Dubai center.
If you are in Al Ain or Abu Dhabi, select the Abu Dhabi location.
Click on “Book Now.” You’ll be directed to the next page where you need to create an account.
Enter your email address in the designated field.
Create a password and enter it again in the next tab to confirm.
Carefully review the terms and conditions.
Click on “Register.”
Check your email for a verification code.
Enter this code to complete your account setup.
After verification, click on “Click here to log in.”
On the login page, enter the same email address and password you just set.
Once logged in, look for the option to “Add an Applicant.”
Fill in all required details accurately.
If you have multiple applicants, select “Add Another Applicant” for each additional person.
After filling in the details, click on Next.
Choose your visa center and select from the available dates and times.
Proceed to pay the VFS fee of 100 dirhams using your credit or debit card.
Once payment is completed, you will receive your appointment letter via email.
When booking your appointment, ensure to select the tourist e-visa option during the process, as clearly stated in the instructions.
You will need to bring physical printouts of your documents to the appointment rather than uploading them online. Here’s what you need to do:
Visit the “Forms” section on the visa application website.
Here, you will find all the essential visa forms, including the letter of guarantee.
Gather Your Documents:
If you are traveling with your spouse or children, ensure you include their passports along with the letter of guarantee.
Additionally, download the sample travel plan form. This form should outline your daily travel itinerary and include contact numbers for your hotel accommodations. Make sure to fill out this form accurately.
On the day of your appointment at the VFS Global center located in Wafi Mall, make sure to bring all your documents, referring to the checklist provided.
At the appointment, your documents will be collected, and you will also need to pay the visa fees. Within two weeks after your appointment, you can return to collect your passport.
Japan Visa for UAE Residents Cost
All visa fees must be paid in AED when you submit your application. Here are the current visa fees by category:
Category
Nationality
Amount (in AED)
E-Visa General
Other Nationalities
80
Indian
20
Gratis Countries
0
In addition to the visa fees, all applicants must also pay a VFS service fee of AED 100 (including 5% VAT) when submitting your application at the Japan Visa Application Centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Japanese E visa for UAE residents?
The processing time for a Japanese eVisa for UAE residents typically takes around 5 to 10 working days after submitting your application at the VFS Global center. However, it’s recommended to apply at least three weeks before your intended travel date to allow for any unforeseen delays.
Can I get a Japan visa in Dubai?
Yes, you can apply for a Japan visa in Dubai. UAE residents need to apply through VFS Global, which manages visa applications for Japan. You can book an appointment at the VFS Global center in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, depending on your location, and submit your documents there.
How long does Japan visa approval take?
Japan visa approval generally takes around 5 to 7 working days. However, during peak seasons or due to additional document requirements, it may take longer. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date.
How much bank balance is required for a Japan visa?
There is no specific minimum bank balance requirement for a Japan visa. However, it’s recommended to show a stable financial status, typically by providing bank statements for the last 3 months. The amount should reflect your ability to cover travel expenses, accommodation, and daily costs during your stay in Japan.
What is the best time to visit Japan?
The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild weather and beautiful natural scenery, with cherry blossoms blooming in spring and vibrant autumn foliage in fall.
Can I travel to Japan with a UAE residence visa?
A UAE residence visa alone does not allow entry into Japan. You will need to apply for a Japan eVisa or another appropriate visa type through VFS Global before your trip. UAE nationals, however, are exempted from requiring a visa for short stays of up to 30 days.
I'm Haris Ali. I am resident of United Arab Emirates. I've been working with identification documents in UAE for over 8 years. I've gained valuable experience from working with various government authorities in the region, especially with documents like the Emirates ID.
In my free time, I enjoy playing cricket and exploring new destinations around the world.
