Are you eligible for a Japan Rail Pass?
A Japan Rail Pass is not available to everyone. JR Group has set specific requirements based on visa type that must be followed strictly.
Who can use the JR Pass?
The Japan Rail Pass is available to foreign tourists visiting Japan for sightseeing purposes with a temporary visitor visa.
Eligible visitors
Can purchase and use JR PassYou are eligible if you're visiting Japan as a tourist with a temporary visitor visa (90 days or less) for sightseeing purposes.
Not eligible
Cannot use JR PassThe following visa types are not eligible for a Japan Rail Pass under any circumstances.
What happens if I'm not eligible?
Please note that your Japan Rail Pass will not be accepted and you will not be able to exchange it in Japan if you have a visa other than a temporary visitor visa for sightseeing purposes.
JR Group is very strict about these conditions and will not make exceptions. Staff at exchange offices will verify your visa status before issuing your pass.
Japanese citizens living abroad
Japanese citizens who have been living abroad for more than 10 consecutive years are eligible for the Japan Rail Pass. You must provide a certificate from your local embassy confirming your residency.
You are required to bring one of the documents shown here along with your Japan Rail Pass and passport when exchanging your pass in Japan. The certificate must be issued before ordering and be no more than 6 months old at the time of exchange.
Japanese children under 12
Special rules apply for Japanese children traveling with a Japan Rail Pass.
Registration requirements
It is mandatory to register children under the age of 12 in a family Overseas Residential Registration if they have lived abroad their entire life or for at least 10 consecutive years.
Additionally, the Japan Rail Pass can only be used by a child in the company of an eligible adult. Children cannot travel alone with a JR Pass.