Navigating Japanese Business Immigration
To clear Japanese immigration on a business visa, present your passport, your landing permit (if issued), and your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) or official business invitation letter. Ensure you have your return flight details and the exact address of your host company printed and ready for inspection.
- Complete the Visit Japan Web registration. Go to the official Visit Japan Web portal at least 48 hours before departure. Register your passport details, visa information, and customs declaration to generate QR codes for immigration and customs.
- Prepare your document stack. Keep your COE or invitation letter, hotel confirmation, and host company contact information in a physical folder. Do not rely on digital files; immigration officers prefer paper copies.
- Clear immigration checkpoint. Follow signs for 'Temporary Visitor' or 'Work/Business'. If you are entering on a COE, you will be issued your Residence Card at the airport. Have your fingerprints and facial scan ready for the biometric kiosks.
- Final customs declaration. Present the second QR code from the Visit Japan Web portal at the customs gate. If you are carrying more than 1,000,000 JPY in cash or equivalent, you must declare it here.
- Do I need a printed invitation letter?
- Yes. Even if you have the digital visa, immigration officers frequently ask to see the official invitation from your host company.
- Can I use my mobile phone at immigration?
- Keep your phone put away until you are through the final checkpoint. Use your printed QR codes or documents.