Can I transfer an expired Japan visa?

No. You can only transfer valid visas. If your visa has expired, you'll need to apply for a completely new visa through the standard application process.

What if I lost my old passport with the visa?

Contact the Japanese consulate immediately. You'll likely need to apply for a new visa rather than transfer, and provide police reports about the lost passport.

Can someone else pick up my transferred visa?

Usually no. Most consulates require the passport holder to collect in person with ID and the receipt. Some allow authorized representatives with specific power of attorney documents.

Do I need to transfer immediately after getting a new passport?

No specific deadline, but you cannot enter Japan with the old passport. Transfer as soon as possible if you have travel plans. The visa remains valid during the transfer process.

How to transfer your Japan visa to a new passport

You can transfer your valid Japan visa to a new passport by visiting a Japanese consulate or embassy with both passports, your visa transfer application, and a passport photo. The process takes 2-5 business days and costs $20-30.

Gather required documents. Collect your old passport (with the valid visa), new passport, one passport photo (45mm x 35mm), completed visa transfer application form, and $20-30 for the fee.
Download and complete the application. Download Form 1 (Application for Visa Transfer) from the Japanese consulate website. Fill it out completely in black ink or type it. Don't leave any fields blank.
Visit the consulate during application hours. Go to your nearest Japanese consulate or embassy during their visa application hours (usually 9am-12pm, Monday-Friday). Bring all documents and arrive early as they often process transfers first-come, first-served.
Submit your application and pay the fee. Hand over all documents to the visa officer. They'll review everything on the spot. Pay the transfer fee ($20-30, exact amount varies by location) and get your receipt.
Collect your passport with transferred visa. Return to pick up your new passport with the transferred visa. Processing time is typically 2-5 business days. Bring your receipt and ID when collecting.

Can I transfer an expired Japan visa?: No. You can only transfer valid visas. If your visa has expired, you'll need to apply for a completely new visa through the standard application process.
What if I lost my old passport with the visa?: Contact the Japanese consulate immediately. You'll likely need to apply for a new visa rather than transfer, and provide police reports about the lost passport.
Can someone else pick up my transferred visa?: Usually no. Most consulates require the passport holder to collect in person with ID and the receipt. Some allow authorized representatives with specific power of attorney documents.
Do I need to transfer immediately after getting a new passport?: No specific deadline, but you cannot enter Japan with the old passport. Transfer as soon as possible if you have travel plans. The visa remains valid during the transfer process.