Japan Passport Ranking 2024

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Japan Passport
4th passport rank
178 visa-free destinations
Flag of Japan Japan
4th passport rank
178 visa-free destinations

We rank the Japan passport as number 4 in the world in line with our Passport Index ratings. As a Japan citizen, you’ll be able to travel visa-free to 178 countries. To gain access to all other countries, you and your family as Japan passport holders will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visa online in advance. Certain countries will allow you to apply for a visa on arrival.

Find a country of your interest from the lists below

Visa-free

Visa free access for Japan

As a Japan passport holder, you are permitted to travel visa-free to 178 countries and territories. This data is correct as of September 2024.

In order to travel visa-free, you will need a valid passport, often with at least six months until expiry. Additionally, you may need travel insurance, as required by your destination country.

Within these countries, there is often a separate section in airports where you can submit your Visa on Arrival. You will receive your visa on arrival (VOA) after entering the country that issued the visa.

Acquiring an eVisa follows the same process as applying for a traditional visa. The main difference with an eVisa is that you don’t need to visit a visa application centre. You can submit your application online, including making any payments relating to the visa.

Once the relevant authorities approve your application, you will receive a confirmation email regarding your visa status, along with a document that you must print and bring with you when crossing the border.

You will need a valid visa to enter the 178 countries with a Japan passport.

About Japan

Japan, an island country in East Asia, is known for its distinctive culture, advanced technology, and strong economy. With a population of approximately 126 million people, it is the world’s tenth most populous country. Japan is characterized by its four distinct seasons, with a climate ranging from humid continental in the north to humid subtropical in the south.

The Japanese culture is a unique blend of traditional and modern. The country is renowned for its historical arts such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and ikebana (flower arranging), as well as contemporary pop culture phenomena like anime and manga. Japan’s cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, is also globally acclaimed, with sushi being one of its most recognized dishes.

Economically, Japan is a global powerhouse, boasting the third largest economy in the world by nominal GDP. It is a world leader in the automotive and electronics industries, with brands like Toyota, Sony, and Panasonic known worldwide. Japan is also famous for its high-speed bullet trains, known as Shinkansen, symbolizing its technological prowess.

From its stunning natural landscapes, including Mount Fuji and cherry blossom-lined streets, to its bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Japan offers a rich tapestry of experiences for its residents and visitors alike. It is a country that beautifully merges tradition with innovation, making it a fascinating place to explore.