# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Tourist Visa

How to Apply for a Japanese Visa in Shanghai

To apply for a Japanese visa from Shanghai, you need to contact the Japanese consulate in Shanghai. United States citizens and residents do not need visas if their stay in Japan is only up to 90 days long and they will not be involved in any paid activities during their stay. The same holds true for green card holders or holders of long-term U.S. visas, except B1 and B2 visas. If you are staying in Shanghai for more than 90 days or will be involved in any commercial activities, you will need a visa.

Passport
Visa application form
1 photograph
Certificate of Eligibility - original
Certificate of Eligibility - copy

Instructions

- 1
  Verify that you have a valid passport. Verify that you have blank pages on your passport for stamps and seals. You should have at least two blank visa pages.
- 2
  Obtain a 45mm X 45mm photograph of yourself.
- 3
  Get the visa application form from the Japanese consulate in Shanghai.
- 4
  Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from your employer in Japan. This certificate will act as proof for the purpose of your visit. Make a copy of the certificate.
- 5
  Apply for the visa at the Japanese consulate in Shanghai. You will need to do this personally or through a travel agent who has been approved by the Japanese embassy or consulate for this purpose.
  
  Submit the Certificate of Eligibility with your application to expedite the processing.