jp-transit — Transit Visa (通過査証)

Japan's Transit Visa allows foreign nationals to leave the airport transit area for up to 15 days while passing through en route to a third country. It covers sightseeing and rest only — family or friend visits require a short-stay visa — and must be applied for in person at a Japanese embassy or consulate.

The Transit Visa category was discontinued from 1 July 2026 and merged into the Single-entry (¥15,000) and Double-entry (¥30,000) visa categories; processing is typically 5 working days, but may extend to 2 months if referred to MOFA Tokyo. A single-entry transit visa is valid for 3 months from issue; double-entry for 4 months. No work is permitted and the visa cannot be extended.

This visa is ideal for travellers who need to exit Japan's airport during a layover — such as those changing airports or requiring an overnight stop — on the way to their final destination.