Japan Visa Overview for Vietnamese Citizens
Vietnamese citizens need a visa before entering Japan. Japan has rolled out an eVISA (electronic visa) for Vietnamese citizens with a maximum stay of 15 days.
Japan eVISA
According to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Vietnamese citizens can obtain an electronic visa through accredited travel agencies. For individual applications you still need to submit through VFS Global or the Embassy. Check the MOFA website for the list of authorised agencies.
Common Japan Visa Types
| Visa type | Purpose | Stay length |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | Tourism, family visit, business | 15 or 90 days |
| Multiple Entry | Repeated tourism or business | 90 days per stay, 3–5-year validity |
| Transit | Transit only | Up to 72 hours |
Japan Visa Photo Requirements
Japan visa photos must follow MOFA standards. Note: the visa photo size differs from the regular passport photo size.
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 4.5 x 4.5 cm (45 x 45 mm) |
| Head size | About 27 mm tall, 7.5 mm from the top of the photo |
| Background | White, no patterns |
| Format | Color photo, glossy paper |
| Validity | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Glasses | Not recommended |
| Quantity | 2 identical photos |
Visa vs Passport Photos for Japan
Japan visa photo: 45 x 45 mm (square)
Japan passport photo: 35 x 45 mm (rectangular)
The two sizes are different and not interchangeable.
Important Photo Notes
Japan's MOFA recommends not wearing glasses in visa photos to avoid glare on the lenses. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are forbidden. The photo must be sharp — no pixelation or blur.
Japan Visa Documents
Core Documents (Required)
- Original passport: at least 6 months remaining, with at least 2 blank pages
- Visa application form: embassy form, fully completed and signed
- Visa photos: 2 photos, 4.5x4.5 cm, white background, taken within 6 months
- Travel itinerary: day-by-day plan with locations and transport
- Flight booking: round-trip booking (a tentative reservation is OK)
- Hotel reservation: confirmed for the entire trip
Proof of Finances
- Bank statement: last 3–6 months, minimum balance VND 100 million
- Employment contract: original or notarised copy
- Employment certificate: from your employer, stating your role, salary and approved leave
- Property documents: if available (optional, increases approval rate)
For Students
- Student certificate from your school
- Financial proof from a parent or sponsor
- Parental authorisation letter (if travelling alone)
Where to Submit
Vietnamese citizens can submit their Japan visa applications at VFS Global or at the Embassy/Consulate:
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 08:30–15:00 (submission).
Japan Visa Fees
| Visa type | Visa fee | VFS service fee |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | VND 520,000 | VND 200,000 |
| Multiple Entry | VND 1,030,000 | VND 200,000 |
| Transit | VND 120,000 | VND 200,000 |
Fees are paid in cash (VND) and are non-refundable, even if the visa is denied. Fees may change — check the Japanese Embassy website for current rates.
Processing Time
- Hanoi: 6 business days (excluding the submission day)
- Ho Chi Minh City: 5 business days (excluding the submission day)
- Note: applications requiring further review may take longer
Important
If your visa is denied, you should not reapply for the same purpose within 6 months of the rejection date.
Create Your Japan Visa Photo Now
4.5x4.5 cm correct MOFA size — automatic AI background removal — 100% compliant
Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
Does a Japan visa require an interview?
Most applications do not require an interview. The Embassy may request one if more information is needed.
Can I apply for a Japan visa online?
Since 2026, Japan has opened the eVISA for Vietnamese citizens, but only for packaged tours through accredited agencies. Individual visas still require in-person submission.
How much money should be in my bank account?
There's no fixed amount, but VND 100 million or about JPY 50,000 per day of stay is recommended. A stable balance over 3–6 months matters more than a large deposit made just before submission.