Tourist visa to Japan in Switzerland: practical recommendations for application

Obtaining a tourist visa to Japan in Switzerland requires a careful approach to document preparation and an understanding of the specifics of this country's visa policy. Despite the high level of diplomatic relations between these countries, the visa process remains strict and formalized. The main focus is on the accuracy of the information, the financial solvency of the applicant, and the correctness of the documents.

Who can apply for a visa to Japan in Switzerland?

Citizens of Switzerland, as well as foreigners legally residing in the country on the basis of a visa or residence permit (B, C, L, or G permit), can apply for a tourist visa to Japan in Switzerland. Applications are only accepted if the applicant has official residence status — tourists temporarily staying in Switzerland are not eligible to apply.

What can a tourist visa to Japan be used for?

A tourist visa to Japan is intended for short-term trips, including the following purposes:

1. Tourist trips to visit attractions and cultural events.

2. Visits on a guest visa to meet with relatives, friends, or acquaintances living in Japan.

3. Business meetings with partners, participation in negotiations, and conclusion of contracts (without formal employment).

4. Participation in conferences, seminars, exhibitions, and other temporary professional events.

This visa is not intended for long-term work, study, or obtaining a permanent income in Japan.

What documents are required to apply for a tourist visa to Japan through Switzerland?

The process of obtaining a tourist visa to Japan through Switzerland involves submitting a package of documents, which includes:

1. A foreign passport valid for at least six months after the planned date of departure from Japan.

2. A visa application form completed in English or Japanese and signed by the applicant.

3. A 4.5 × 4.5 cm photograph taken no earlier than six months ago.

4. Travel itinerary — a detailed travel plan indicating cities, hotels, and dates.

5. Confirmation of round-trip airline tickets.

6. Confirmation of accommodation for the entire duration of the stay.

7. Proof of income or a bank statement confirming sufficient funds to cover expenses.

8. A certificate from your place of work or study; for students, a letter from your educational institution.

9. A letter of motivation. 

For pensioners or unemployed persons, it is possible to provide documents from a sponsor (e.g., a family member), including a letter of financial support and proof of their solvency.

Application and review process

Applications for tourist visas to Japan in Bern must be submitted in person to the consular section of the Japanese embassy. Online applications are not yet available, so it is important to make an appointment in advance. After reviewing your documents, the consular officer may request additional information, such as details of your itinerary, financial documents, or a letter of explanation.

The processing time for applications is usually 5 to 10 business days, but it may be longer during the high tourist season or if additional verification is required. For this reason, it is recommended that you submit your documents at least 3 weeks before your planned travel date.

Requirements for applicants and possible reasons for refusal

The embassy pays special attention to the accuracy of the information provided. Any discrepancies in itineraries, reservations, or financial data may result in refusal. A negative decision is also possible if there is no clear purpose for the trip, insufficient financial security, or doubts about the intention to return to Switzerland.

To increase your chances of successfully obtaining a tourist visa to Japan through Bern, it is recommended that you provide as much transparent and documented information as possible: copies of paid reservations, bank statements, and employment certificates indicating your position and length of service.

Cost and validity of a tourist visa to Japan

The consular fee varies depending on the exchange rate and type of visa. As a rule, a tourist visa to Japan in Bern is issued for a single entry for up to 90 days. Payment is made at the time of submission of documents, in cash in Swiss francs. If the visa is refused, the consular fee is not refundable.

Some applicants who travel to Japan frequently (e.g., for family or cultural reasons) may apply for a multiple-entry visa. In this case, proof of permanent ties to the country and justification for the need for regular travel are required.

Recommendations for preparing documents

Our visa agency experts recommend starting to prepare your documents for a tourist visa to Japan in Switzerland 1-2 months before your trip. It is important to check the accuracy of the information in your passport, the validity of your reservations, and the sequence of your itinerary. 

Particular attention should be paid to the quality of the translation of documents. Although it is officially permitted to submit documents in English, any discrepancies or illegible copies may slow down the processing of your application. Therefore, the best solution in this case would be to consult a professional visa consultant who is familiar with the requirements of the embassy in Bern.

Common mistakes when applying for a tourist visa to Japan

1. Lack of a clear travel plan or unclear purpose of visit The visa application process largely depends on the details. Without a clear itinerary, exact dates, and a specific purpose for the trip, the chances of visa approval are significantly reduced.

2. Applying for a visa for more than 4 weeks. Consulate officers pay attention to the realism of the specified dates. For example, if the application form requests a stay in the country for 6-9 weeks, and your last vacation lasted 7-15 days, this raises doubts. A long stay without good reason may arouse suspicion and lead to rejection.

3. Indication of an excessively large amount in your bank account. A large amount in your account does not guarantee visa approval. An overly impressive balance without explanation may raise questions from the visa officer.

4. Lack of explanation of the origin of funds. A bank statement is only part of the supporting documentation. It is important to explain the source of income, otherwise the officer may doubt the legality of your funds.

5. Lack of a motivation letter. The visa application form has a limited format, which does not always allow you to fully disclose the purpose and logic of your trip. A motivation letter helps to explain the situation in detail and justify your plans.

6. Excessive confidence in obtaining a visa. Having a good financial situation and a positive travel history does not guarantee automatic approval. According to statistics, about 80% of overly confident applicants are denied.

Why should you apply for a visa through a specialized agency?

Applying for a tourist visa to Japan in Switzerland requires special care and accuracy, as even a single date error can lead to rejection. Our company's specialists will help you correctly fill out the documents, prepare financial justification, and draw up an itinerary in accordance with the embassy's requirements. 

With us, your dream of traveling to the "land of the rising sun" is guaranteed to come true!

Japan visa without personal attendance

Obtaining a visa to Japan has become much easier thanks to the service of document submission without your personal presence. You no longer need to spend time scheduling an appointment at the consulate, traveling to another city, or standing in lines. We handle the entire process — from consultation to receiving your passport with the visa. This allows you to fully focus on preparing for your trip while leaving all formalities to the specialists.

We will help you assemble the correct document package, advise you on filling out forms, and highlight the details that often attract the consulate’s attention. After the consultation, you can simply send your passport via a convenient delivery service — Nova Poshta, DHL, or by bus from Poland. Our representative will personally submit the documents and oversee the entire procedure to prevent any delays.

Processing typically takes about five business days. Once the visa is ready, we will collect your passport, carefully check the data, and return it to you via the method of your choice. It is safe, fast, and completely frees you from having to interact with the embassy.