shaanxieveryday

Hi everyone,

I understand that can stay a certain number of days, often 90, in an Asian country without a visa (as an American; similar for some other nations too). However, my question is not about the stay rules per country, but the Asian continent. Most of the European Union has the Schengen Visa policy where people outside of the Schengen countries cannot stay in Schengen-European countries for more than 90 days over 180 days.

I’d like to confirm there is no similar policy in Asia. So if I’d like to stay 3 months in Japan, then 2 months in Bali and then 1 month in Hong Kong, without a visa, would it be permissible?

Thank you for any help.

MmePerdu

There is no equivalent of Schengen in Asia. The length of time you can stay, as you've mentioned, varies, so check on the rules that apply to each of the countries you mention. You can, in some cases, leave and return to continue a stay (called a "visa run"). A friend of mine has spent years in Asia without being a legal resident of any one Asian country.

Kathie

That is correct, there is nothing similar to Schengen in Asia. Each country has it own rules, so research carefully before you make your travel arrangements. A number of countries require a visa, some you can purchase on arrival, others must be obtained (or arranged) in advance. Also note the passport validity requirements. Some Asian countries require 6 months of passport validity when you enter the country.

Note that of the places you listed, Indonesia requires a visa for any stay of more than a few days.

shaanxieveryday

Thank you so much for the confirmation!

And thanks, Kathie, for pointing out Indonesia’s exception.