Germany Visa for Japanese Citizens 2026
| Key Facts — Japanese Citizens & Germany | |
|---|---|
| Visa Required | No — Visa-Free (ETIAS required from 2025) |
| Max Stay | 90 days in any 180-day period (Schengen) |
| Fee | EUR 7 (ETIAS, adults 18–70) |
| Processing Time | ETIAS: up to 4 days (usually minutes) |
| Apply At | travel.ec.europa.eu (ETIAS) |
Do Japanese Citizens Need a Visa for Germany?
Japanese passport holders enjoy visa-free access to Germany and the entire Schengen Area. Stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period require no advance visa. However, from 2025 the EU's ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is required before travel. ETIAS costs EUR 7 (waived under 18 and over 70) and is valid for 3 years or until passport expiry. Apply online at travel.ec.europa.eu.
Requirements for Japanese Citizens
- Valid passport (6+ months validity beyond your planned return date)
- ETIAS authorisation (apply at travel.ec.europa.eu; valid 3 years / until passport expiry)
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay
- Proof of sufficient funds (credit card or cash equivalent)
- Travel or health insurance (recommended; mandatory for some border crossings)
How to Apply
No visa application is required for stays up to 90 days.
- Obtain ETIAS — apply online at travel.ec.europa.eu. The process takes about 10 minutes and approval usually arrives within minutes to 4 days.
- Book flights and accommodation — ensure your passport is valid throughout your stay.
- Arrive at the border — present your passport and ETIAS confirmation (usually embedded in passport scan). Border guards may ask for supporting documents.
For stays beyond 90 days, contact the German Embassy to apply for the appropriate national visa (D-type).
Tips for Japanese Travellers to Germany
- ETIAS is linked to your passport — if you renew your passport, you will need a new ETIAS.
- Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity on the date of entry.
- The 90-day limit is cumulative across the entire Schengen Area, not just Germany.
- Keep a digital copy of your ETIAS approval email on your phone.
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended despite not being mandatory at all checkpoints.
Editorial note: Verified by our immigration team. Last updated: March 2026.