This is extremely important. Japan will not require us to obtain any kind of special Visa since we will be there less than three months. But you DO need a passport. Without a passport, you will not be able to go. We want you there, so apply for your passport today. It typically takes about 6-8 weeks (maybe longer!) to get through the entire process. If you have a passport, be sure it is valid until February 3rd, 2026. If not, newer regulations require a passport to be valid for 6 months from the time of re-entry into the US, so please renew your passport if necessary. 

• If you have a passport, make sure it is valid through at least February 3rd, 2026.

• If you don’t have a passport, drop everything you are doing right now, and APPLY FOR ONE RIGHT NOW!

• Email a photocopy of your passport to Justin at justin.harker@cru.org. 

Applying for a Passport:

If you are a US Citizen: The forms are found at most local post offices. To find out if your post office does passport processing, check online at www.usps.com (search ‘passport’ – you can also print a passport application). Complete the application and bring the following items back to the post office:

• Application

• Proof of US Citizenship: Previous passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship

• Proof of Identity: Driver’s license, government/military ID WITH a photocopy; A Costco card or Disneyland Annual Passport won’t do. 

• Two identical color 2”X2” photos (Passport Photos).  (Some post offices that have the Passport Processing will take the photos for you. If not, try Kinko’s or Walgreens or similar places. AAA provides a passport photo service if you are a member.)

• $165 if you are a first-time applicant, $130 if you are renewing your passport.