Visa Requirement
Visa required: Yes
Visa on arrival: No
Visa types: Tourist, Business
Maximum stay: Up to 90 days
Application Details
Application window: Up to 3 months before travel
Processing time: 5–10 working days
Minimum processing time: 4–5 working days
Fees (Approximate)
Japan visa fee (Embassy of Japan): ₹450
Transit visa fee: ₹50
VFS service charge: ₹800 (mandatory)
Fees are subject to change at the time of application.
Japan eVisa
eVisa available: Yes (for eligible short-term applicants)
eVisa start date: 1 September 2025

As of January 2026, Indian passport holders are required to submit confirmed travel itineraries and hotel bookings when applying for a Japan tourist visa.
From 1 September 2025, Japan introduced an eVisa system for eligible short-term travelers, allowing applicants to receive visa approval electronically instead of a physical sticker.
The Japan Embassy in India continues to process visa applications only through authorized visa application centers, and direct embassy submissions are not accepted.
Visa processing times may increase during peak travel seasons or if additional documents are requested by the embassy.
The most significant update for Indian travelers is the launch of the Japan eVISA system, which became fully operational for Indian residents on September 1, 2025. This digital visa system has revolutionized the application process, making it faster and more convenient than ever before.
Key Features of Japan eVisa:
The Embassy of Japan in India has announced the official visa fees for the fiscal year 2025-2026:
Visa Type | Indian Nationals | Other Nationals |
Single Entry Visa | ₹450 | ₹1,650 |
Multiple Entry Visa | ₹450 | ₹3,350 |
Transit Visa | ₹50 | ₹400 |
Additional Charges:

Understanding which visa category suits your travel purpose is essential for a successful application. Japan offers several visa types for Indian nationals:
The most common visa for Indian travelers, the tourist visa allows you to explore Japan, visit friends and family, or attend conferences and cultural events.
Key Features:
Who Should Apply:
Designed for professionals conducting business activities in Japan, this short-stay visa facilitates commercial exchanges between India and Japan.
Key Features:
Who Should Apply:
Additional Requirements:
Required for Indian citizens passing through Japan en route to another destination.
Key Features:
For Indian students pursuing education in Japan, this long-term visa enables enrollment in Japanese educational institutions.
Key Features:
Requirements:
For Indian professionals who have secured employment in Japan, this visa category is subdivided into specific professional fields.
Categories Include:
Key Features:
Requirements:
For family members of individuals working or studying in Japan.
Key Features:
For artists, researchers, and cultural participants engaging in non-paid cultural activities in Japan.
Documents required for Japan tourist visa (Indian citizens):
Valid Indian passport (issued within the last 10 years)
Japan visa application form (duly filled and signed)
Recent passport-size photograph
Flight itinerary
Hotel booking or invitation letter from a host in Japan
Bank statement for the last 6 months
Income tax returns (recommended)
Important: All documents must be in English or Japanese.

The application process has been streamlined with the introduction of the eVisa system. Indian applicants now have two options: traditional paper application through VFS Global or online eVisa application.
The Japan eVisa system is the fastest and most convenient method for Indian tourists.
Eligibility for eVisa:
Step-by-Step eVisa Application Process:
Step 1: Access the Official Portal
Step 2: Complete Online Application Form
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Step 4: Pay Visa Fee Online
Step 5: Submit Application
Step 6: Track Application Status
Step 7: Receive eVisa
Important eVisa Notes:
For those who prefer or require traditional application method, VFS Global centers across India accept paper applications.
Step 1: Locate Nearest VFS Japan Visa Application Center
VFS Global has centers in major Indian cities:
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Step 3: Book Appointment (If Required)
Step 4: Visit VFS Center
Step 5: Pay Fees
Step 6: Receive Acknowledgement
Step 7: Track Application
Step 8: Collect Passport
In certain cases, applications can be submitted directly at the Embassy or Consulate:
Accepted at Embassy:
Consulate Jurisdictions:
Processing time:
Japan visa processing usually takes 5–10 working days from the date of submission.
In some cases, processing may take a minimum of 4–5 working days.
Indian citizens must submit their Japan visa application through VFS Japan in India.
Applications are not accepted directly at the Embassy of Japan.
Understanding the complete cost structure helps you budget accurately for your Japan visa application.
For Indian Nationals:
Comparison with Other Nationals:
VFS Global Service Fee:
Courier Service:
SMS Alerts:
Minimum Cost (Self-Collection):
With Courier Service:
Through Travel Agency:
At VFS Centers:
For eVisa:
Visa Fee:
Service Charges:
Understanding why visas get rejected helps you prepare a stronger application. The Japanese Embassy maintains high standards, and even minor issues can lead to rejection.
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Follow these expert tips to maximize your chances of visa approval and ensure a smooth application process.
Embassy of Japan in India
Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai
Consulate-General of Japan in Chennai
Consulate-General of Japan in Kolkata
VFS Global Call Centre
Japan Visa Information Hotline
Indian Embassy in Japan
Indian Consulate in Osaka
Obtaining a Japan visa as an Indian citizen in 2025-2026 has become more accessible than ever, thanks to the new eVisa system, competitive fees, and streamlined processes. With proper preparation, complete documentation, and attention to detail, your visa application can be smooth and successful.
Japan offers Indian travelers an incredible blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. From the serene temples of Kyoto to the bustling streets of Tokyo, from the snow-capped peaks of Hokkaido to the tropical beaches of Okinawa, Japan promises unforgettable experiences.
Popular Destinations:
Best Time to Visit:
If you encounter difficulties or have specific questions:
With this comprehensive guide, you're now equipped with all the information needed to successfully apply for your Japan visa. The Land of the Rising Sun awaits with its unique blend of tradition and innovation, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.
Start your application today, and soon you'll be exploring the beautiful streets of Tokyo, witnessing the majestic Mount Fuji, experiencing traditional tea ceremonies, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Ganbatte kudasai! (Good luck!) 🇯🇵
Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Japan government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Last Updated: December 2025
Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been researched and compiled using official sources from the Embassy of Japan in India, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, VFS Global, and other authoritative sources. It is regularly updated to reflect the latest visa policies and procedures for Indian citizens traveling to Japan.
Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.
No. Indian passport holders must apply for a Japan visa before traveling.
Yes. Japan eVisa is available for Indian residents.
Japan visa processing usually takes 5–10 working days.
No. Applications must be submitted through VFS Japan in India.
Indian citizens can stay in Japan for up to 90 days on a tourist visa.
In most cases, an interview is not required.
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