Canada Visa RequirementsFor Japan passport holders
Japanese passport holders are required to obtain a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA costs CAD 7 and allows multiple visits of up to 6 months each, valid for up to 5 years or until passport expiry.
Japan passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Canada.
Apply for the Canadian eTA on the official Government of Canada website (canada.ca/eta). The fee is CAD 7. Most applications are approved within minutes, though some may take several days. Apply well before your travel date. Note: the eTA is only required when flying to Canada; Japanese nationals can enter by land from the US without an eTA.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Japan to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada implemented the eTA requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals, including Japanese passport holders, in 2016. The process is entirely online and does not require a consulate visit. The eTA is linked electronically to the passport and is not a stamp or sticker.
Practical Tips
Canada uses the Canadian dollar (CAD). Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), and Montreal (YUL) are the main entry airports from Japan. Direct flights operate on several airlines. Travel to Canada by land from the US does not require an eTA. Travel insurance is strongly recommended given high Canadian healthcare costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Japanese passport holders need a visa for Canada?
No full visa is required, but Japanese nationals must obtain a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA costs CAD 7. Entry by land from the US does not require an eTA.
How do I apply for the Canadian eTA as a Japanese citizen?
Apply on the official Government of Canada website at canada.ca/eta. The fee is CAD 7, payable by credit card. Most applications are approved within minutes, though some may take several days. Apply well before travel.
How long is the Canadian eTA valid?
The Canadian eTA is valid for 5 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first. It allows multiple trips to Canada, with each stay up to 6 months. If you renew your Japanese passport, you need a new eTA.
Do Japanese nationals need an eTA to cross into Canada by land from the United States?
No. The eTA is only required when flying to Canada. Japanese nationals entering Canada by land (such as crossing from the US) or by sea do not need an eTA, but must carry a valid Japanese passport.