Niseko Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport regardless of age. Children under 16 are generally exempt from biometric data collection at immigration. If traveling with children who are not your own or with only one parent, carry notarized consent letters from absent parent(s) and birth certificates. While not always checked, these documents prevent potential complications. Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with airlines and must have documentation from parents/guardians.

Japan has strict animal quarantine regulations. Dogs and cats must have: ISO-compatible microchip, rabies vaccinations (twice with specific timing), rabies antibody test at approved laboratory, 180-day waiting period after blood test, import notification submitted 40 days before arrival, and health certificate issued within 10 days of departure. Animals must enter through designated airports (New Chitose Airport is authorized). Quarantine period varies from 12 hours to 180 days depending on compliance with advance preparation requirements. Process must begin 7+ months before travel. Contact Animal Quarantine Service (www.maff.go.jp/aqs) well in advance. Note that many accommodations in Niseko do not accept pets.

Tourist visa extensions are difficult and rarely granted except for exceptional circumstances (medical emergency, natural disaster). Apply at regional immigration office before current status expires. For longer stays, consider: Working Holiday visa (available to certain nationalities aged 18-30), Student visa (requires enrollment in Japanese language school or university), Work visa (requires job offer from Japanese employer and Certificate of Eligibility), Designated Activities visa, or Cultural Activities visa. Each requires application from outside Japan (except extensions). Some visitors do 'visa runs' to nearby countries, but this is not officially sanctioned and immigration may deny re-entry if pattern is detected. For seasonal work in Niseko ski resorts, Working Holiday visa is most common option for eligible nationalities.

Short-term business activities (meetings, conferences, market research, contract negotiations) are permitted under tourist visa waiver or short-term stay visa. Cannot engage in paid work or receive remuneration from Japanese sources. For actual employment or extended business activities, a work visa is required. Business travelers should carry: invitation letter from Japanese company, business cards, conference registration, and detailed itinerary. Some business activities may require notification to immigration.

Prescription medications: Bring copy of prescription with generic drug names. Quantities up to 1-month supply for personal use are generally permitted without documentation. For 1-3 months supply or medications containing narcotics/stimulants, obtain Yakkan Shoumei (import certificate) from Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare before travel. Apply online at www.ncd.mhlw.go.jp. Common medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, and some cold medicines are prohibited. Insulin and syringes are permitted with prescription. Allow 2-3 weeks for Yakkan Shoumei processing.

Sports equipment is generally permitted without issues. Airlines have specific policies for ski/snowboard baggage - check with your carrier for fees and packing requirements. Some airlines offer special winter sports baggage allowances to Hokkaido during ski season. Equipment must be properly packed to prevent damage and injury to handlers. Consider travel insurance that covers equipment loss/damage. Rental equipment is widely available in Niseko if you prefer not to travel with gear. No special customs declarations required for personal sports equipment.