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The Japanese government is set to simplify the visa application process for short-term tourists starting November 11, 2024. The JAPAN eVISA website will become the platform for eVISA applications.
This new system will be available for foreign nationals residing in Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, United Kingdom, U.S.A., and Hong Kong SAR, Macau, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea, and United Arab Emirates (excluding those exempt from short-term visa).
For those residing in China and Vietnam, the eVISA will offer a period of stay of either 15 or 30 days. Those traveling to Japan by air or sea, limited to international scheduled passenger ferries between Japan and Busan or Shanghai, can apply for this online visa.
It's important to note that only ordinary passport holders are eligible to apply through the JAPAN eVISA website. During the application process, the applicant may be requested to appear in person at the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over the place of the applicant's residence for an interview.
However, the eVISA does not apply to those exempt from short-term visa in United Arab Emirates. The Hong Kong SAR government has extended the validity period of the first visas of Category A applications under the TTPS to three years.
In addition, the Hong Kong SAR government has enhanced the assessment criteria and arrangements of the General Points Test under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS). The eVISA does not affect the QMAS.
For further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, contact Debra Jane Beynon (Regional Immigration Manager, APAC) and Roberta Carnaccini (Global Director of Immigration).
Please note that the information provided is for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. It's always recommended to consult with the relevant authorities or immigration experts for specific queries.
The introduction of the eVISA system is part of Japan's efforts to streamline the visa application process and make it more accessible for short-term tourists. This move is expected to boost tourism in Japan and provide a more convenient way for travellers to visit the country.
The three main countries introducing electronic visa applications for short-term tourists, apart from Japan, are Thailand, Vietnam, and Mexico. As the rollout of the eVISA system approaches, more details about the application process and requirements are expected to be announced.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development in Japan's visa policy.
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