Japan is a charming and unique country that attracts tourists with its blend of culture and modernity. From Osaka’s peaceful beauty of cherry blossoms in spring to the energetic streets of Tokyo, you will love every corner of it. The warmth of Japanese culture can be felt in its hospitality, delicious cuisine, and rich heritage.
Now that you are convinced to visit this country, let’s first learn about the Japan tourist visa for Indians, as it is the first step to plan your vacation.
Indian passport holders can apply for a Temporary Visitor Visa (tourist visa). This visa allows for single or multiple entries, with each visit lasting up to 90 days.
If you’ve travelled to Japan or any G7 country before, or if you have a strong financial background, you may be eligible for a multiple-entry visa.
Starting from April 1, 2024, India is now part of the Japan e-VISA program. You can apply for an e-visa for short visits, but please ensure you apply at least 90 days prior to your trip.
Okay, but before applying for it, you must be aware of what VFS is to initiate your visa process.
What is VFS Global, and Why Do Indians Need It?
VFS is the Visa Facilitation Services Global. To apply for a tourist visa to Japan, you will likely use the services of VFS Global. They assist in managing visa applications for the Consulates or Embassy of Japan in India.
VFS Global handles-
- Visa application process
- Collects your documents
- Manages biometric enrollment
Note: You cannot apply directly for a tourist visa at the Japanese Embassy. All short-term tourist visas for Japan must be submitted via VFS Japan Visa Application Centres (VACs) in India.
Here are the major VFS centres where you can apply for a Japan tourist visa:
- Delhi (walk-in allowed)
- Mumbai
- Chennai
- Bangalore
- Kolkata
- Hyderabad
- Ahmedabad
- Pune
- Chandigarh
- Kochi
- Jalandhar
VFS Charges for Japan Visa
- Visa Fee (Embassy): ₹450
- VFS Service Charge: ₹800
- Courier (optional): ₹550
Note: Even if you’re applying through the new Japan e-Visa system, you may still need to visit VFS to submit documents, depending on your eligibility. So, always check the latest process before applying.
Documents Required for Japan Tourist Visa
Before you pack your bags for the Land of the Rising Sun, make sure your visa application is in order. Here’s a clear and easy-to-follow checklist to help you gather the necessary documents.
- A valid passport is required- and it must contain at least two blank pages.
- Photocopy of Passport Bio Pages (Include the first and last page of your current passport)
- Visa Application Form- Download it from VFS Japan, fill it out, and sign it.
- Cover Letter- Write a letter stating the purpose of your visit and daily travel itinerary.
- Recent Photograph- One colour photo (size: 2 x 2 inches). It must have a white background and be printed on good-quality paper.
- Travel Itinerary and Hotel Bookings- Submit proof of confirmed flight bookings. And include hotel reservation details for the entire stay.
- Income Tax Returns (ITR)- Submit your last 3 years’ ITR documents. If ITRs are not available, submit your bank statements for the past 6 months.
- Employment Certificate- Obtain a certificate of employment from your employer. Also include a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or leave sanction letter.
Exceptional Cases: Additional Documents
Depending on your cases, you may need to provide additional documents.
Student or Dependent Child:
- Letter of consent from parents.
- Parents’ government-issued ID.
- Parents’ last three years of tax returns or six months of bank statements.
- Proof of relationship (birth certificate).
- A bonafide certificate or leave approval from the school/college.
Dependent Wife or Husband:
- A letter of consent from your spouse.
- Spouse’s ITR for the past 3 years or 6 months’ bank statement.
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate).
Business Owner:
- Proof of ownership (Director ID, Import/Export license, or Proprietorship docs).
- The company’s last 3 years’ ITR or 6 months’ bank statement.
| Important Note: This checklist serves as a guide for your visa application. The Japanese Embassy may request additional documents or contact you for an interview, depending on your individual case. |
Tips for Indian Applicants-
- Double-check that all photocopies are on A4 paper.
- Get your bank statements updated and stamped.
- A clear itinerary and proof of stay will strengthen your visa application.
- Always submit the original documents when requested, and carry photocopies as backup.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fill Japan Visa Application Form for Indian Travellers
As an Indian citizen, you’ll need to fill out the Japan visa application form accurately. Here’s a clear and easy-to-understand breakdown of what each section means, so you can fill it out without stress.
Personal Information
This section asks for your basic details as per your passport:
- Surname or Given & Middle Names– Fill in your name exactly as printed in your passport.
- Other names– Mention any other names you’ve used officially (like after marriage or name changes).
- Date & Place of Birth- Write your full date of birth and birth location (city, state, country).
- Gender & Marital Status– Tick the appropriate box: Male/Female and Single/Married/etc.
- Nationality– Your Indian citizenship. If you held any other nationality before, mention it too.
- ID Number- Please provide the ID number issued by your government (e.g., Aadhaar or PAN, if applicable).
Passport Details
- Passport Type- Most Indians will select “Ordinary”.
- Passport Number- Write your correct passport number.
- Place of Issue / Date of Issue / Expiry- Mention the place and date where it was issued and when it will expire.
- Issuing Authority- Usually, it’s “Govt. of India” or the passport office that issued it.
Travel Purpose and Stay Details
- Certificate of Eligibility No.- Leave this blank if not applicable (usually for long-term visas).
- Purpose of Visit- For tourism, write “Sightseeing”.
- Length of Stay / Date of Arrival / Port of Entry- Mention how many days you plan to stay, your arrival date, and your arrival city (like Tokyo or Osaka).
- Airline Name- Mention the name of your airline (like Air India, ANA, etc.).
Accommodation in Japan
- Provide the hotel name, address, and contact number of where you’ll be staying.
- If you’re staying at multiple places in Japan, add the main one or mention all on a separate sheet.
Previous Visits
- Mention if you’ve visited Japan before, including dates and duration. If not, write “N/A”.
Residential Address in India
- Enter your full current residential address, including:
- Mobile number
- Landline (if any)
- Email address
Work & Employment Details
- Mention your current job title and occupation.
- Provide your employer’s name, address, and phone number.
- If you are self-employed or a freelancer, write “Self-Employed” with your business address.
Partner’s or Parent’s Profession (If Minor)
- If you’re a minor, mention your parents’ profession.
- For others, this field can usually be left blank.
Guarantor or Reference in Japan
If someone in Japan is hosting you:
- Write their full name, address, phone number, date of birth, and relationship to you.
- Include their profession and immigration status (e.g., citizen, resident).
(If no one, then write “N/A.”)
Inviter in Japan
If the person inviting you is also your guarantor, simply write “Same as above.” If different, fill in their full details as asked.
Criminal Record & Legal History
Answer in either “Yes” or “No” to these questions and be honest:
- Have you ever committed a crime or been convicted of one?
- Have you been sentenced or deported?
- Any involvement in drugs or prostitution?
Write a Clear & Honest Cover Letter
Your cover letter should briefly mention:
- Why do you want to visit Japan
- The cities and dates of travel
- Who is travelling with you
- Who will bear the expenses (self or sponsor)
Note: Avoid using vague or overly complicated language. Keep it simple, sincere, and truthful.
Processing Time for Japan Tourist Visa
The processing time is usually quick, within 5 to 7 working days after submission at the VFS centre. However, it may vary depending on:
- The city where you apply (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.)
- Embassy or consulate workload
- Busy travel times (like during cherry blossom season or New Year holidays)
- The accuracy and completeness of your documents
In some cases, applications may take up to 10 working days, especially if additional documents are requested.
The best time to apply for a Japan visa is at least 3 to 4 weeks prior to your travel date to avoid last-minute stress.
Note: The Japanese Embassy does not officially offer an express visa service for Indian citizens.
Key Factors Behind Visa Rejections for Indian Travellers to Japan
Visa rejections for Indian travellers to Japan often stem from insufficient documentation, unclear travel intentions, or prior travel history issues. Learn about it in detail-
Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
- Missing required documents (like a cover letter, hotel bookings, and ITR)
- Mismatched information (e.g. name spellings, travel dates)
- Application form left partially filled or signed incorrectly
Tip: Double-check everything with the official VFS checklist before submission.
Insufficient Financial Proof
- Low or unstable bank balance (typically < ₹1.5 lakhs)
- Inconsistent transaction history
- No proof of regular income (especially for freelancers or homemakers)
Tip: Submit updated 6-month bank statements, ITRs, salary slips, and any fixed deposits if available.
Weak Travel Intent or Dubious Itinerary
- Vague or unrealistic itinerary
- No clear reason for visiting Japan
- Overstaying concerns (if you’ve overstayed elsewhere before)
Tip: Be specific in your cover letter about where you’re going, for how long, and why.
Lack of Employment or Business Proof
- No NOC or leave letter from employer (if employed)
- No business registration proof or income tax returns (if self-employed)
- No alternate sponsor if unemployed
Tip: Attach a solid NOC or explain your professional status clearly in the application.
Suspicious or Fake Documents
- Submitting fake hotel bookings or dummy flight tickets
- Manipulated bank statements
- Bogus cover letters copied online
Tip: Always use genuine documents. The Embassy may verify them.
First-Time International Traveller With Weak Profile
- No previous travel to countries with strict visa rules, such as the UK, the US, or the Schengen Area.
- Low financial strength
- Applying solo with no strong ties to return
Tip: Build your profile with previous travel and strong local connections (job, family, etc.).
Incorrect Application Channel
- Applying at the wrong VFS centre (based on your region)
- Submitting documents for the wrong visa category
Tip: Check which Japan consulate your state falls under, and always apply via the correct VFS centre.
Timing Issues
- Applying too close to your travel date
- Submitting expired documents or outdated forms
Tip: Apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance using the latest official forms.
What to Do if Rejected?
- The Japan Embassy doesn’t always give a reason, but you can reapply after correcting issues.
- Wait at least 1-2 weeks, revise your application, and submit stronger supporting documents.
- You can also consult a visa expert if you’re unsure.
Avoid These Common Mistakes-
- Submitting fake documents or dummy bookings
- Leaving fields blank on the application form
- Not matching itinerary dates with flight/hotel bookings
- Applying too close to your travel date
Note: Even small errors can lead to delays or rejection.
Final Tips Before You Travel to Japan-
- Carry Printouts of Key Documents
- Plan Your Foreign Exchange
- Get Travel Insurance
- Book a Japan Rail Pass (if needed)
- Pack Essentials for Your Trip
- Respect Local Customs
Conclusion
Japan is one of the safest and cleanest countries in the world. With your visa in hand and a little preparation, you’re all set for a trip of a lifetime. Respect the culture, stay organised, and enjoy everything from sushi to Shinkansen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to the most common Japan visa queries for Indian travellers:
Do Indians need a visa to visit Japan?
Yes, Indian citizens must apply for a tourist visa or a Japan e-Visa before travelling.
Can I apply for a Japan visa online?
Yes, eligible Indian citizens can apply for the Japan e-Visa through the official portal. Others must apply via VFS Global.
Do I need confirmed flight and hotel bookings?
Yes. While some VFS centres may accept tentative bookings, it’s safer to include confirmed return flights and hotel reservations.
Can I reapply if my visa is rejected?
Yes. You can reapply after correcting errors or providing additional documents. Be sure to understand the reason for rejection before reapplying.
Can I also apply for my spouse and children too?
Yes, you can apply for family members. Each person needs a separate application and supporting documents.
Is a Japanese tourist visa a single or multiple entry?
It depends. First-time applicants usually get a single entry, but with good travel history and strong financials, you may qualify for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 5 years.
How long is the Japan visa valid after issue?
Typically, the visa is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. Your stay must start within this period.
