A Japanese law that went into effect in 2007 requires most visitors 16 and older to be fingerprinted and photographed. Anyone failing to comply will be denied entry into the country.
If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you must do it in person at a post office or other government office. You must fill out a passport application form and present proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate) and identification (such as a driver's license).
As of May 2009, Japan had reciprocal agreements with 62 countries, including the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, allowing travelers to visit Japan without a visa for limited stays. People planning to stay longer must apply for one of seven types of visas Japan offers, such as a diplomatic, work or general visa.
Foreigners wishing to work in Japan are required to obtain a work visa, even if they will be staying in the country fewer than 90 days. They must apply in person at a Japanese embassy or consulate.
A shore pass may be granted by Japanese authorities for passengers on a ship or airplane proceeding to another destination via Japan. The pass is technically good only for shopping and rest, and limits the traveler to the municipality where he or she entered the country.
For more information, contact the Consular Section of the Embassy of Japan at 2520 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20008, or the nearest Japanese consulate.
