Japan ESTA visa

ESTA Application Process for Japanese Travelers

As a Japanese citizen, you are eligible to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to visit the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Visit the official ESTA website
2. Select “日本語” as your preferred language
3. Click on “申請” to start a new application
4. Complete the application form with your personal information, passport details, and travel plans
5. Answer all security questions honestly and accurately
6. Review your application carefully for any errors before submitting
7. Pay the ESTA fee (approximately 14 USD or 1500 JPY) using a credit or debit card
8. Wait for approval (typically within 72 hours, often much quicker)

Local Considerations for Japanese Applicants

• Your Japanese passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in the US
• Ensure your passport is an e-passport with a digital chip (all Japanese passports issued since 2006 meet this requirement)
• If you’ve visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen since March 1, 2011, you may not be eligible for ESTA and should apply for a regular visa instead
• Japanese dual citizens must use their Japanese passport for ESTA application and travel

Travel Information

Flight durations from Japan to the United States vary depending on your destination:

• Tokyo to Los Angeles: Approximately 10-11 hours
• Tokyo to New York: About 13-14 hours
• Tokyo to Honolulu: Around 7-8 hours

Popular routes and attractions for Japanese travelers:

1. Hawaii: A favorite destination for its beaches, culture, and relatively short flight time
2. Los Angeles: Explore Hollywood, theme parks, and nearby Japanese communities
3. New York City: Experience the vibrant metropolis, visit Central Park, and enjoy world-class shopping
4. San Francisco: Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, ride cable cars, and explore nearby Silicon Valley
5. Las Vegas: Experience the unique entertainment and casino culture

Important Reminders

• Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your planned travel
• An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first
• ESTA allows multiple entries to the US within its validity period
• Carry a printed copy of your ESTA approval and have electronic access to it
• Be prepared to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay
• Consider the time difference between Japan and the US when planning your trip (Japan is typically 13-19 hours ahead, depending on the US time zone)

Cultural Tips

• Tipping is expected in the US, unlike in Japan. Budget for 15-20% tips in restaurants
• Americans generally have a positive view of Japanese culture and may be curious about your home country
• Distances in the US are much larger than in Japan – plan accordingly when traveling between cities
• English is widely spoken, but Americans will appreciate your efforts to speak English

Japanese-American Connections

You might be interested in visiting areas with strong Japanese-American communities:

• Los Angeles: Particularly Little Tokyo and the Sawtelle Japantown area
• San Francisco: Visit Japantown, one of the largest Japanese communities outside of Japan
• Honolulu: Large Japanese-American population with many cultural events and attractions
• Seattle: Known for its historic Japantown and Japanese cultural influences

Useful Japanese Phrases in English

• “ありがとう” (Arigatou) – “Thank you”
• “こんにちは” (Konnichiwa) – “Hello”
• “英語を話せますか？” (Eigo wo hanasemasu ka?) – “Do you speak English?”

Remember to check the official ESTA website and the US Embassy in Japan for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip. Stay informed about any changes or updates to the ESTA process for Japanese citizens, especially in light of global events that may affect international travel.