Japan entry requirements for UK travellers
Everything a UK traveller needs to know before visiting Japan: visa and passport rules, recommended vaccines with lead times, and whether you need an International Driving Permit.
Quick answer for UK travellers
- Visa
- Visa on arrival may apply - check before booking
- Vaccines
- 1 recommended, 5 to consider
- Driving permit
- 1949 Geneva Convention IDP if you plan to drive
Data is automatically refreshed from official UK government sources: gov.uk Foreign Travel Advice for visa and passport rules, NaTHNaC TravelHealthPro for vaccines, and gov.uk driving abroad guidance for International Driving Permits. Not medical advice - always confirm with a travel-health professional and the Japan embassy before you travel. Read our full methodology →
Entry requirements for Japan
Passport validity
If you’re visiting Japan, your passport must be valid for the length of your stay. No additional period of validity is required. You need a blank page for your visa stamp.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visas
A Visa on arrival may be required before travel - check the source link below for your specific circumstances.
Source: UK Foreign Travel Advice - Japan · checked . Always confirm the latest requirements before you travel.
Vaccines for travel to Japan
Based on NaTHNaC TravelHealthPro guidance for UK travellers. Lead times assume protection is needed on the day you arrive.
-
Tetanus / Diphtheria Recommended
Booster recommended if last dose was more than 10 years ago.
-
Dengue Consider
-
3 weeks before travelHepatitis B Consider
Intermediate/high prevalence. Recommended for those with sexual risk, healthcare workers, and long-stay travellers.
-
4 weeks before travelJapanese Encephalitis Consider
Transmission season June–October. Recommended for 1+ month stays in endemic areas or visits to rice fields/pig farms. Not routinely recommended for short trips to Tokyo or major cities.
-
4 weeks before travelRabies (Pre-exposure) Consider
Pre-exposure for bat handlers, veterinarians, and cavers. Most travellers are at low risk.
-
2 weeks before travelTick-borne Encephalitis Consider
For those with outdoor activities in affected areas. Risk areas include Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu. Ticks most active early spring to late autumn.
Source: NaTHNaC TravelHealthPro - Japan · checked . Cross-check against NHS Fit for Travel and US CDC Traveller's Health.
Driving in Japan
To drive in Japan with a UK driving licence, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention.
IDPs are issued by PayPoint (no longer the Post Office) - find an issuing store.
Japan travel: frequently asked questions
What vaccines do I need for Japan?
No vaccines are listed as required for Japan, but Tetanus / Diphtheria are recommended for UK travellers based on NaTHNaC guidance. Some vaccines need several weeks for full protection - book a travel clinic appointment well before you fly.
Do I need an International Driving Permit for Japan?
If you plan to drive in Japan on a UK licence, you may need an International Driving Permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. UK IDPs are issued by PayPoint in person and cost £5.50.
Plan your Japan trip in Trek Ready
Free, private, no account needed. Log the vaccines you already have and see what's left.
Start planning →