Japan Tourist Visa For Indians For Indian Passport Holders

Japan, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, is a dream destination for many. For Indian citizens, visiting Japan requires obtaining a tourist visa, unless otherwise exempt. This guide provides detailed information to help Indians navigate the process of obtaining a Japan Tourist Visa.

Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to enter Japan for tourism purposes. However, the application process has been streamlined to encourage more Indian tourists.

For tourism, Indians can apply for:

a. Single Entry Tourist Visa

• Description: Allows one entry into Japan.
  
  
• Stay Duration: Up to 15, 30, or 90 days.
  
  
• Suitable For: First-time visitors or those with a clear, short itinerary.
  
  

b. Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

• Description: Allows multiple entries into Japan.
  
  
• Stay Duration: Up to 15, 30, or 90 days per entry.
  
  
• Validity: Typically issued for 1, 3, or 5 years.
  
  
• Suitable For: Frequent travelers to Japan, offering greater flexibility.

a. Single Entry Tourist Visa:

• Valid Indian Passport
  
  

• Validity: At least six months beyond the planned departure date from Japan.
• Pages: Ensure you have at least two blank pages.
  
  

• Completed Visa Application Form
  
  

• Available on the Japanese Embassy/Consulate website or at VFS application centers.
• Note: Fill out the form accurately and legibly, preferably in block letters.
  
  

• Recent Photograph
  
  

• Size: Passport-sized (4.5 x 3.5 cm).
• Background: White.
• Facial Expression: Neutral.
  
  

• Flight Itinerary or Flight Reservation
  
  

• Confirming entry and exit from Japan.
• Tip: Book refundable tickets or provide a reservation that can be cancelled.
  
  

• Hotel Booking or Invitation Letter
  
  

• Proof of accommodation in Japan.
• Option 1 (Hotel): Booking confirmation from the hotel.
• Option 2 (Invitation Letter): For stays with friends/family, including the host’s residence certificate and a copy of their passport/ID.
  
  

• Proof of Financial Means
  
  

• Bank Statement (last 3 months).
• Amount: Approximately ¥100,000 (or equivalent in INR) per person for the stay, but this can vary based on the duration and type of visit.
  
  

• Income Certificate (Optional but Recommended)
  
  

• Enhances the application, especially for first-time applicants.
  
  

b. Multiple Entry Tourist Visa:

In addition to the above (with the exception of the flight itinerary, which might not be required for multiple entry visas but a detailed first trip plan might be asked):

• Previous Japan Visas (if any)
  
• To demonstrate compliance with Japanese immigration laws.
  
  
• Stronger Proof of Financial Means
  
  
• Given the longer validity and multiple entries.
  
  
• Detailed Itinerary for the First Trip (if required)
  
  
• Under the multiple entry visa, you might need to provide a detailed plan for your first visit.
  
  

The photo specifications for Japan tourist visa are as follows -

• Two copies must be provided
  
  
• Photo size: 45mm x 45 mm.
  
  
• Coloured copy must be provided.
  
  
• The face must cover about 60-70% of the frame - 32mm x 36mm.
  
  
• Head should well-centred.
  
  
• A gap of 2mm to 6mm must be kept between the top of the head and the frame.
  
  
• The picture must be taken within the last 6 months.
  
  
• The background must be white
  
  
• Neutral expressions
  
  
• Glasses are not permitted.
  
  
• Headgears are not allowed except for religious reasons.
  
  
• Clothing shouldn’t match the background.

a. Through VFS Global:

Step 1: Visit VFS Website

• Website: www.vfsglobal.com/japan/india/

• Actions to Take:

• Familiarize yourself with the website’s layout and content.

• Navigate to the "Apply for a Visa" or "How to Apply" section.

• Read through the "Requirements" and "Fees" sections carefully.
  
  

Step 2: Fill the Online Form

• Form Type: Japan Tourist Visa Application Form (usually downloadable as a PDF).

• Steps to Fill the Form:

1. Download the Form: From the VFS website or the Japanese Embassy/Consulate’s website.

2. Fill the Form Online or Offline:

• Online: Fill the form directly on the VFS website (if the option is available).

• Offline: Download, fill using Adobe Acrobat or a similar PDF editor, and then print.

3. Mandatory Fields: Ensure all required fields are filled (usually marked with an asterisk *).

4. Accuracy: Double-check for spelling, date, and other errors.

5. Print the Form: On A4-sized paper, single-sided.

6. Signature: Sign the form in the designated area.
   
   

Step 3: Gather Documents

• Required Documents (as outlined in the initial guide):

• Valid Indian Passport

• Recent Photograph

• Flight Itinerary or Flight Reservation

• Hotel Booking or Invitation Letter

• Proof of Financial Means

• Income Certificate (if applicable)

• Tips:

• Ensure all documents are recent and valid.

• Make photocopies of all original documents (in case of emergencies).
  
  

Step 4: Submit at VFS Center

• Finding Your Nearest VFS Center:

1. Use the "Center Locator" tool on the VFS website.

2. Filter by city or state in India.

• Submission Process:

1. Reach the VFS Center: During operational hours (check the website for timings).

2. Token/Queue System: Follow the center’s queue system or take a token (if provided).

3. Submit Your Application:

• Hand over your filled application form and supporting documents.

• Ensure all documents are in the correct order (usually specified on the VFS website).

4. Verification: VFS staff may verify certain documents on the spot.
   
   

Step 5: Pay Fees

• VFS Service Fee:

• Check Current Rate: On the VFS website or inquire at the VFS center.

• Payment Methods: Usually cash, credit/debit card, or bank draft (check with VFS for accepted methods).

• Receipt: Ensure you receive a receipt for your payment, which may also serve as an acknowledgement of your application submission.
  
  

b. Direct Submission at Embassy/Consulate:

Eligibility

• Multiple Entry Visa Applications: Typically require direct submission.

• Embassy/Consulate Advice: In some cases, applicants may be advised to submit directly for single entry visas as well.
  
  

Step 1: Prepare All Documents

• Required Documents: Same as for VFS submission, with possible additional requirements for multiple entry visas.

• Verification: Double-check the Embassy/Consulate’s website for any specific document requirements or formats.
  
  

Step 2: Check for Appointment Requirements

• Embassy/Consulate Website: Navigate to the section on visa applications.

• Appointment System:

• Online Booking: If available, book your appointment in advance.

• Phone/Email Inquiry: If online booking is not available, contact the Embassy/Consulate to inquire about appointment procedures.
  
  

Step 3: Submit Your Application In Person

• Embassy/Consulate Location: Ensure you have the correct address and operational hours.

• Submission Process:

• Arrival and Security Check: Reach the location with ample time to spare and clear any security checks.

• Application Submission:

• Meet with the designated officer.

• Submit your application and supporting documents.

• Answer any questions the officer may have regarding your application.

• Document Verification: The officer may verify your documents on the spot.
  
  

Step 4: Pay the Applicable Visa Fee and Additional Charges

• Visa Fee (if not exempt):

• Check Current Rate: On the Embassy/Consulate’s website.

• Payment Methods: Usually specified on the website; could be cash, credit/debit card, or bank draft.
  
  

• Additional Charges (if any): For services like expedited processing (if available).
  
  

• Receipt: Ensure you receive a receipt for all payments made.

• Single Entry Visa: Generally, the visa fee is waived for Indian nationals for single entry visas for tourism. However, a VFS service fee applies (check the current rate).
  
  
• Multiple Entry Visa: A visa fee (check the current rate with the Embassy or VFS, as it's subject to change) plus the VFS service fee (if applying through VFS).

• Single Entry Visa: Typically 2-4 working days (excluding the day of submission) via VFS Global. Can vary based on the application volume.
  
  
• Multiple Entry Visa: Usually takes longer, around 5-7 working days or more, due to more stringent scrutiny.

• Verify Information: Always check the official websites for the latest requirements and processing times.
  
  
• Accuracy is Key: Ensure all documents and the application form are accurate and complete.
  
  
• Apply in Advance: To account for any unexpected delays.
  
  
• Travel Insurance: Though not mandatory, highly recommended for unforeseen circumstances.

Need more clarity on the Japan visa? Check out helpful resources below

Japan Visa Requirement

Japan Tourist Visa Requirement

Japan Business Visa Requirement

Japan Visit Visa Requirement

Japan Work Visa Requirement

Japan Study Visa Requirement

Japan Embassies and Consulates

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

• Embassy of Japan in India: www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/
  
  
• VFS Global (Japan Visa Application Center): www.vfsglobal.com/japan/india/
  
  
• Japanese Government’s Official Tourism Website: www.japan.travel/en/