Overview: Japan Tourist Visa Simplified for Indians
From April 1, 2024, Indian passport holders are eligible for a single-entry or multiple-entry eVisa for tourism purposes. This makes visiting Japan easier—with streamlined processes and fewer documents.
You may apply either:
- Through VFS Global or
- Via official Japan eVISA portal (online).
Required Documents for Your Application
You’ll need:
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity and two blank pages).
- Completed visa application form and a recent passport-size photo (45 × 35 mm, white background).
- Confirmed flight tickets (round-trip or transit).
- Hotel booking confirmations or itinerary.
- Financial documents: last 3–6 months bank statements and ITR. Recommended balance ₹2–4 lakhs or ITR ≥ ₹10 lakhs for multiple entry.
- Detailed travel itinerary, and a cover letter explaining purpose, funding, travel dates.
- Invitation letter/guarantor documents (if visiting friends or family).
- Address proof (e.g., Aadhar or rent agreement if your current address differs from passport).
Visa Fees & Processing Time from India
| Visa Type | Official Visa Fee | VFS Service Fee | Optional Courier | Processing Time (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | INR 500 | INR 800 | INR 550 | 4–6 working days |
| Multiple Entry (1‑5yrs) | INR 500 | INR 800 | INR 550 | 5–10 working days |
- VFS service charge is mandatory, even if visa fee is waived.⁶VFS Global+15Terratern+15in.emb-japan.go.jp+15
- Standard processing takes around 5 working days, but may extend up to 10 if additional documents are required or during high season.⁷VFS GlobalItzEazyRedditReddit
Real Experiences from Indian Applicants
“They didn’t require my bank statement—only ITR. I received a 5‑year visa.
“My visa arrived in 6 working days after reaching the embassy.
“Applied through Bangalore VFS—got five years valid visa in 5 days.
However, visa rejections have been reported when applicants had weak ITR, insufficient travel history, or missing documents.
Step-by-Step Application – Easy Guide
- Start up to 3 months before travel. Japan embassy accepts files up to 90 days in advance.
- Choose an application route: VFS (offline or walk-in) or Japan eVISA portal (online).
- Collect all documents: passport, form, photo, itinerary, bank statements, cover letter, etc.
- Attend biometric/data submission, if required.
- Pay visa and service fees, choose courier delivery if needed.
- Await approval—check status on VFS tracker.
- Receive passport: single-entry or multi-entry tourist visa stamp or sticker.
- Travel to Japan and enjoy your trip.
