I previously wrote about the application process for the Washington consulate (Japan Visa Application Process – Japanese Embassy in Washington, D.C., USALater, a friend reminded me that Japan now offers 5-year multiple-entry visas, and after checking, I found out it was true. I felt like I'd missed out big time. I just moved to Seattle, where there's even a Japanese consulate. I tried applying for a multiple-entry visa and wrote down a simple guide for everyone's reference.

Basic Information

• Official website:https://www.seattle.us.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/visa.html
• Working hours: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Monday – Friday
• Address: 701 Pike Street, Suite 1000 Seattle, WA 98101
• Review time: one week
• Cost: ( per visit)

Required materials

I checked online and found that the required documents vary from consulate to consulate, and the information on the official website is very unclear. So I've compiled it here for you:

• passport
• Passport photo
• The application form (the one on the official website) is surprisingly different from the one used in Washington, D.C.
• Proof of residence: bank statement, utility bills, etc.
• A certificate of employment is fine; just ask your company for one.
• Proof of income and bank statement (note that you need to bring 6 months' worth of statements; I didn't bring enough, and I had to send them a copy after I got home).
• Flight information (surprisingly, no hotel is needed), this is a bit troublesome because I don't have any travel plans yet, I just want a backup plan. I bought it online, went there to get a visa, and then canceled the ticket (free cancellation within 24 hours).
• The travel plan is available in the online guide; just download it and fill it out.
• For multiple-entry visa applications, simply write one yourself, explaining your reasons for applying, such as liking Japan, enjoying travel, having the money to travel extensively, etc.
• I-797 wasn't mentioned online. I needed it when I was in Washington, D.C., which surprised me, but it was required on-site. It's best to bring it with you.