1. Where to Apply

Applicants must submit their Medical Stay Visa application at the following locations:

Japanese Embassy/Consulate in Your Country of Residence

Apply at the Japanese diplomatic mission (embassy/consulate) that has jurisdiction over your country of residence.

Examples:

U.S. citizens: Japanese Embassy in Washington D.C. or consulates in major cities

Chinese citizens: Japanese Embassy in Beijing or consulates in Shanghai/Guangzhou

Designated Visa Application Centers (where applicable)

Some countries outsource visa processing to external agencies (e.g., VFS Global)

2. Required Documents

1. Visa application form (downloadable from embassy website)
2. Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
3. Photo (4.5cm×3.5cm, white background)
4. Acceptance letter from Japanese medical institution:
   • Must include treatment details, duration, cost estimates (in Japanese or English)
   • Must contain hospital contact information and doctor's signature
5. Medical diagnosis from home country doctor (with Japanese translation)
6. Proof of financial capability:
   • Bank statements
   • Sponsor's financial documents, etc.
7. Accommodation proof (arranged by hospital or Japanese guarantor)
8. Guarantor documents (if applicable, e.g., guarantee letter from Japanese hospital)

3. Key Points

• For long-term treatment (>90 days): "Medical Stay Visa" (Status of Residence: "Designated Activities-Medical Stay") is mandatory
• For short-term treatment (≤90 days): Tourist visa may be used (no hospitalization required), but all costs must be self-paid (not covered by insurance)

4. Application Process

1. Contract with Japanese medical institution
   • Confirm treatment plan and costs, obtain required documents
2. Prepare documents in home country
   • Organize diagnosis, financial proofs, etc.
3. Submit application to embassy/consulate or designated agency
   • Processing typically takes 1-2 weeks
4. Travel to Japan after visa issuance

5. Important Notes

1. Visa type: Regular short-term tourist visas cannot be used for long-term medical stays
2. Extension: If treatment needs to be extended, must renew residence period in Japan
3. Accompanying persons: Family members require separate "Accompanying Visa" application

Additional Information

Medical visa processing may take significant time - begin preparations well in advance