How to Get a Japanese Passport: Official Application GuideExpress Assistance: traficopapa@gmail.com
A Japanese passport (日本国旅券, Nihonkoku Ryoken) is the official travel document for citizens of Japan, issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) through regional passport offices and Japanese embassies or consulates abroad. It is one of the world’s most powerful passports, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries.
Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to obtaining or renewing a Japanese passport.
🧾 1. Eligibility and Validity
You must be a Japanese citizen to apply for a passport.
Validity periods:
10 years — for applicants aged 20 and above
5 years — for applicants under 20, or those who prefer a shorter validity
Both passports contain biometric data, including facial image and digital signature.
2. Required DocumentsBefore applying, gather the following documents:
Passport application form (旅券発給申請書), available at passport offices
Proof of Japanese citizenship:
Family register (戸籍謄本 or 戸籍抄本) — required if applying for the first time, or if your registered domicile has changed
Photo ID:
Driver’s license, My Number Card, or similar official ID
Recent passport photo (4.5×3.5 cm, plain background, taken within 6 months)
Previous passport (if renewing)
Application fee payment (in revenue stamps, purchased at the passport office)
For minors:
Parental consent is required.
Parent or legal guardian must sign the application form.
3. How to ApplyIn Japan:
Apply in person at your prefectural passport center or municipal passport office.
Submit your completed application form and documents.
Pay the fee using revenue stamps (収入印紙) and prefectural fees.
You will receive a pickup slip with your collection date.
Outside Japan:
Apply at your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.
Requirements are similar, but fees are paid in local currency, and processing times may vary.
4. Fees and Processing TimesFees (as of 2025):
10-year passport: ¥16,000
5-year passport (age 12+): ¥11,000
5-year passport (under 12): ¥6,000
Processing time:
Within Japan: Typically 5 working days
Abroad: 2–4 weeks, depending on location
5. Collecting Your PassportYou must collect your passport in person at the same office where you applied.
Bring your pickup slip and personal identification (driver’s license, My Number Card, etc.).
If you applied abroad, collection is at the embassy or consulate that processed your application.
Key TipsEnsure your photo meets Japan’s strict biometric requirements; improper photos are the main cause of delays.
Always check your family register (戸籍) for up-to-date information before applying.
Apply early if you plan to travel during peak periods (e.g., holidays).
Report lost or stolen passports immediately to the police and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a Japanese diplomatic mission.
The Japanese biometric passport is a globally trusted and secure travel document, designed with advanced anti-forgery technology and international compatibility. Always apply through official government offices or Japanese embassies/consulates to ensure authenticity.
For official details and forms:
https://www.mofa.go.jp https://www.passport.go.jp