How to Pay the U.S. Visa Fee in Japan

Submitting the DS-160 is free. If you need a nonimmigrant visa, you normally pay a separate, non-refundable consular application fee through Japan's official U.S. visa appointment service.

Japanese citizens traveling for eligible short business or tourism trips may be able to use ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program instead of applying for a visa. Confirm that you actually need a visa before paying—the fee cannot be refunded or transferred.

Payment methods available in Japan

The official Japan payment page currently lists:

• Debit or credit card in Japanese yen (JPY): cards issued in Japan or abroad may be used.
• Eligible U.S.-issued debit or credit card: payment is in U.S. dollars and charges may apply. Follow the portal's restrictions; this option is not for every card.

The exact yen amount is set using the Department of State's consular exchange rate and is shown inside your applicant profile. Do not convert the published U.S.-dollar fee yourself.

Official reference: the Japan bank and payment options page lists JPY debit/credit card payment and a separate U.S.-issued-card option. It also says receipts normally activate within four hours.

Official U.S. Department of State Visa Appointment Service for Japan, captured August 29, 2026. Always verify the live page before paying.

Step-by-step payment process

1. Complete the DS-160 and save the confirmation page.
2. Create your own profile in the official applicant portal.
3. Choose Schedule Appointment and enter the requested applicant, DS-160, visa class, and post information.
4. Continue to the payment screen. The portal will show the methods and exact amount available for your case.
5. Complete one payment and save the receipt number and payment confirmation.
6. Return to the portal after the receipt activates and schedule the interview.

Japan's official instructions say receipts normally activate within four hours. If the receipt is still inactive after that time, contact official support with the receipt number. Do not pay again while the first transaction is being investigated.

Important Japan-specific rules

• The fee is generally usable to schedule an appointment for one year from payment.
• The portal limits appointment rescheduling. The official instructions warn that rescheduling more than three times or missing the appointment can require another fee.
• Each applicant, including a child, normally needs a separate fee unless an official exemption applies.
• A payment made for Japan cannot simply be moved to an application in another country.

Official sources

• Japan bank and payment options
• U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Japan visa information
• Department of State visa fee schedule

Return to the general fee guide.