Last Updated: 16 September 2026
South African passport holders need a visa for Japan. Residents of South Africa travelling for tourism can apply online through the official JAPAN eVISA system.
Business trips, family visits and other purposes still go through the Embassy of Japan in Pretoria or the consular office for your area.
Tell us your travel dates, purpose and number of applicants for a Japan visa.
Get Visa AssistanceDo South Africans Need a Visa for Japan?
Yes. South Africans need a visa for all visits to Japan. Tourism stays of 90 days or less can use the eVisa if you live in South Africa.
Requirements vary according to visa type and applicant circumstances. Confirm the latest requirements before submitting your application.
Japan Visa Requirements for South Africans
Typical documents include a passport, application form, photo, flight bookings, a day-by-day itinerary, accommodation, bank statements and an employment letter.
The eVisa issuance notice must be shown online at the departure airport. Screenshots and printouts are not accepted.
Types of Japan Visas
| Visa or permission | Typically used for |
|---|---|
| Tourism eVisa (single entry) | Tourism up to 90 days, SA residents |
| Short-term stay visa (embassy) | Business, visiting relatives, conferences |
| Multiple-entry visa | Frequent business travellers who qualify |
| Transit visa | Short transits where required |
| Work and study visas | Certificate of Eligibility needed first |
Japan Tourist Visa
Holiday trips use the eVisa, single entry, for a stay of 15, 30 or 90 days as granted. Plans that include visiting relatives go through the embassy.
Japan Business Visa
Business visits use the short-term stay visa through the embassy, usually with an invitation letter and letter of guarantee from the Japanese company.
How to Apply for a Japan Visa from South Africa
- Choose eVisa (tourism) or embassy application (other purposes).
- Prepare itinerary, bookings and bank statements.
- Apply on JAPAN eVISA or submit at the embassy.
- Pay the fee.
- Show the eVisa notice online at check-in, or collect your passport.
Japan Visa Cost in South Africa
Fees are charged in rand. The embassy has listed R395 single entry, R790 multiple entry and R90 transit. Confirm current fees before applying.
| Cost item | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Single-entry visa | R395 | Official government fee |
| Multiple-entry visa | R790 | Official government fee |
| Transit visa | R90 | Official government fee |
| Japan visa assistance | R1,200 - R3,000 | Optional assistance fee |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
Get the assistance fee for your actual Japan application rather than a range.
Compare Visa Assistance QuotesJapan Visa Processing Time
eVisas and embassy visas are commonly processed in about a week once complete. Allow more time in peak seasons. Processing times are estimates and can change.
Where to Apply in South Africa
Tourism: online through JAPAN eVISA. Other purposes: the Embassy of Japan in Pretoria, or the consular office in Cape Town where it covers your area.
Documents Needed
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for your stay, blank pages |
| Application form and photo | 4.5 x 4.5 cm for embassy applications |
| Flights | Round-trip reservation |
| Itinerary | Day by day, with accommodation |
| Bank statements | Recent 3 months |
| Employment letter or business registration | Proof of ties |
| Invitation and letter of guarantee | Business or family visits |
Common Reasons Visa Applications Are Delayed
- Using the eVisa for non-tourism travel.
- Itinerary gaps or unbooked nights.
- Showing a screenshot instead of the live eVisa notice.
- Missing guarantee letter for business.
Visa Application Assistance
For itineraries and business files, see visa application assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for Japan?
Yes, for all visits.
Can South Africans get a Japan eVisa?
Yes, SA residents travelling for tourism for 90 days or less can apply online.
How much is a Japan visa in South Africa?
The embassy has listed R395 single entry and R790 multiple entry. Confirm before applying.
Can I visit family in Japan on the eVisa?
No. Visiting relatives goes through the embassy route.
Compare assistance quotes for your Japan application through Visa Application - free and with no obligation.
Related Pages
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