Hi!
I will go to Japan with a visa status: cultural activities visa (duration maximum 90 days)
Am I allowed to use the JR Pass? I have read that the visa status has to say: temporary visitor, but since my maximum stay is 90 days ( the same as for temporary visitor) I was thinking maybe I could use the JR Pass.
Grateful for your answer!
Joséphine
Hi Joséphine,
The JR Pass is only valid when entering Japan under a 90 Day Tourist Visa. Unfortunately any other type such as your cultural activities visa don't qualify.
Sorry to bring you bad news,
Daniel
Hi Daniel,
Thank you very much for the information. I have another question maybe you don't know about this then no problem. When I had a student visa in Japan I went to the city office and changed it to tourist visa to be able to use the JR Pass, I wonder can I do this with my cultural activities visa?
Kind regards,
Joséphine
Hi Joséphine,
Yes it is possible to submit an Application for Change of Status of Residence to the local immigration office. Note that a change '''has to be granted' and may be denied as well. Generally changing to tourist visa is no problem but there may be a limitation such as not beeing able to stay longer in Japan than your initial visa dates.
HERE is a great blog of someone who also did it succesfully.
I hope this helps!
Daniel
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