Touring in Japan

Planning a tour in Japan is an exciting milestone, but being prepared well in advance will make your experience seamless from arrival to final show.

Please Note: Laws, procedures, forms and fees can change year on year so please always check the official notes from the relevant government bodies for the most up to date information.

Visa requirements in Japan

UK citizens can enter Japan visa-free for 90 days for tourism, meetings, or short visits — but not for paid performances. 

Musicians performing in Japan will generally require Entertainer Visa (Artist Visa)

The official visa category for musicians, singers, bands, and their essential support staff (sound engineers, tour crew, etc.) is typically “Entertainer” (or in some cases “Artist”) under Japan’s working-visa scheme. 

To obtain this visa, you will usually need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the Japanese immigration authorities. The COE is submitted by your Japanese promoter before you can apply for the visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate.

Obtaining a COE can takes several weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity and completeness of documentation. Once the COE is issued, it is usually valid for about 90 days. You must apply for the visa at a Japanese embassy/consulate during that window, and then travel to Japan. 

You should be ready to supply (via your promoter or agent) the following documentation:

• Passport info (passport photo page)
• Signed contract(s) for all performances in Japan (with dates, venues, fees)
• Detailed itinerary/tour schedule (venues, dates, show times)
• Artist / band profile, background or CV (to show you are professionals) — including past performances, recordings, press, etc. 

For any support staff (crew, sound engineers, tour managers, etc.) travelling with the band: their identity, role, and relation to the tour (because visa applies to them too as “essential staff”).

Tax Requirements in Japan

Earnings from gigs in Japan to non-resident foreigners are generally subject to Japanese withholding tax. The official national tax authority outlines that income from Japanese sources paid to non-residents may be taxed at source.

You should discuss tax withholding with your Japanese agent or promoter in advance — understand whether they will withhold tax, and whether you (or they) need to do paperwork on your behalf.

Checklist Summary

• Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – submitted by your promoter
• Once COE is received, submit visa application via embassy
• Clarify withholding tax with promoter or agent
• Insurance for medical and equipment coverage 

Official Links

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Immigration Services Agency
• UK guidance

Further Help

British Embassy Tokyo

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Rules for visas and taxation can change, and individual circumstances (tour length, number of gigs, payment arrangements, residency status, etc.) can affect what applies to you. Always check the latest official guidance and consider seeking professional advice for your specific situation.