### How to Get a Japan Tourist Visa from India in 2025
As an Indian citizen planning a trip to iconic destinations like Tokyo (for its bustling streets and temples), Kyoto (famous for cherry blossoms and historic shrines), or Mt. Fuji (a UNESCO site best viewed in summer), you'll need a short-term tourist visa (officially "Temporary Visitor" visa) for stays up to 90 days. Japan does not offer visa-on-arrival or exemptions for Indian passport holders for tourism, but the process has been streamlined with the JAPAN eVISA system since April 1, 2024. This allows online applications, making it faster and more convenient.
No special visa rules apply to visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, or Mt. Fuji—they fall under standard tourism. However, note Mt. Fuji's climbing season (July-September) requires a separate hiking permit (not a visa), while viewing from afar needs none. Always check for seasonal travel advisories, like typhoon risks in summer.
**Key Eligibility Criteria:**
- Valid Indian passport (ordinary, not diplomatic).
- Purpose: Pure tourism (no paid work).
- Proof of intent to return (e.g., job, family ties).
- Sufficient funds for the trip (typically ₹1-2 lakh per person for 7-14 days, based on itinerary).
- No criminal record or prior visa overstays.
Applications can be submitted up to 3 months in advance. The visa is single-entry by default, but multiple-entry options exist for frequent travelers (e.g., if you've visited Japan before).
#### Step-by-Step Application Process
The process integrates online eVISA submission with in-person verification at VFS Global centers (accredited by the Japanese Embassy). No prior VFS appointment is needed—walk-ins are accepted during business hours.
| Step | Description | Timeline/Tips |
|------|-------------|---------------|
| **1. Prepare Documents** | Gather all required docs (see checklist below). Scan them for upload. | 1-2 weeks before applying. Ensure photos meet specs: 45mm x 35mm, color, white background, 70-80% face visibility, taken within 6 months. |
| **2. Apply Online via eVISA Portal** | - Visit https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp/index.<br>- Register an account (use email).<br>- Fill the online application form (English available; download printable version if needed).<br>- Upload scanned documents.<br>- Pay visa fee online (credit/debit card).<br>- Submit and get a reference number. | 10-15 days before travel. Video guide: https://youtu.be/9EA1T7zyJ5M. Incomplete apps are auto-canceled. |
| **3. Visit VFS Global Center** | - Book optional premium lounge if wanted (for faster service).<br>- Submit biometrics (fingerprints/photo), original docs, and passport.<br>- Pay VFS service fee.<br>- Locations: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, etc. (full list on VFS site). | Within 3-5 days of online submission. Open Mon-Fri, 9 AM-4 PM. Track status via VFS portal. |
| **4. Wait for Processing** | Embassy reviews; you'll get email updates. | 5 working days standard (can extend to 10-15 in peak season like cherry blossom time). No expedited option. |
| **5. Collect Visa** | - Pick up passport with visa sticker from VFS (or courier for extra fee).<br>- If approved, print the eVISA notice for airport entry (show digitally; no printouts). | Collect in person or opt for SMS alerts. |
| **6. Travel Prep** | - At Japanese airport: Show eVISA notice, passport, return ticket, and accommodation proof.<br>- Entry stamp issued on arrival. | Arrive with onward ticket and funds proof (₹10,000+ per day). |
**Inquiries:** Call Japan Visa Hotline (+91-11-71816614, 24/7 English) or VFS (+91-22-67866016). Beware of scams—Embassy never asks for extra payments via phone/email.
#### Required Documents Checklist
Submit originals + copies. All docs must be in English/Japanese or translated. Issued within 3 months where applicable.
| Document | Details/Notes |
|----------|---------------|
| **Valid Passport** | Original + copy of first/last pages. Issued <10 years ago, valid 6+ months beyond stay, 2 blank pages. Include old passports if any. |
| **Visa Application Form** | Download from eVISA portal or Embassy site. Sign and date. |
| **Photograph** | 1 recent (6 months) passport-size (45x35mm), white background. |
| **Cover Letter** | Self-explanatory letter stating trip purpose, dates, itinerary, and guarantee to return. |
| **Travel Itinerary** | Detailed plan: Flight bookings (round-trip, confirmed), hotel reservations (or host address/phone), daily activities (e.g., "Day 1: Tokyo sightseeing; Day 2: Train to Kyoto"). No payments required upfront. |
| **Financial Proof** | - Bank statements (last 3 months, min. balance ₹1-2 lakh).<br>- Income Tax Returns (last 3 years).<br>- Salary slips (last 3 months) or Form 16. |
| **Employment Proof** | - Employment certificate/letter from employer (with salary, leave approval).<br>- For self-employed: Business registration, profit/loss statements. |
| **For Minors/Students** | Birth certificate, school ID, parental consent letter (notarized if solo travel). |
| **Optional/Case-Specific** | Invitation letter if visiting friends/relatives (with their ID proof). Travel insurance recommended (covers ₹30 lakh medical). |
If self-funding, no guarantor needed; otherwise, include sponsor's docs (income proof, relation evidence).
#### Fees (as of April 1, 2025 - March 31, 2026)
- **Visa Fee:** ₹450 (single/multiple entry; non-refundable even if rejected).
- **VFS Service Fee:** ₹800-1,200 (includes biometrics; optional courier ₹500).
- **Payment:** Online for visa; cash/card at VFS.
- Total: ~₹1,300-1,800 per applicant.
#### Processing Time and Approval Rates
- **Standard:** 5 working days (from VFS submission).
- **Peak Delays:** Up to 2 weeks during holidays (e.g., Diwali, Golden Week in Japan).
- Approval rate for Indians: ~85-90% if docs are complete; common rejections: Insufficient funds or vague itinerary.
#### Important Rules Before Visiting
- **Stay Limits:** Strictly 90 days max; overstays lead to bans.
- **Entry Requirements:** COVID rules lifted, but carry vaccination proof if asked. Declare cash >₹5 lakh or restricted items (e.g., fresh food).
- **For Specific Spots:**
- **Tokyo/Kyoto:** Use JR Pass for trains; no visa impact, but book Shinkansen in advance.
- **Mt. Fuji:** View from Lake Kawaguchi (free); climbing needs ¥1,000-4,000 permit via official site (yoshida-trail.co.jp). Weather-dependent—check forecasts.
- **Post-Visa Tips:** Register with Indian Embassy in Tokyo upon arrival. Use IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) for transport.
Apply early to avoid stress—successful trips to Japan's serene temples and volcanic wonders await! For latest updates, check the Embassy site.
If Japan has been sitting on your travel bucket list, 2025 might be the perfect year to tick it off. Sakura season might be far away, but winter in Japan is equally beautiful, and even cheaper, if you can brave the snow. Neon-lit Tokyo nights, bamboo forests of Kyoto, and the picture-perfect peak of Mount Fuji are all waiting, just one flight away. But before you pack your camera and daydream about sushi, let’s make sure your Japan visa from India is sorted.
Do Indians Need A Visa For Japan?
Yes. Indians need a visa to visit Japan but since 2024, the country has been offering e-visa facilities to travellers from India. You can apply for a single entry short term visa for tourism (up to 90 days).
Can I Apply For Japan Visa?
No, Japan does not allow for direct visa applications. You'll have to apply through the embassy, or through an authorized travel agency/VFS Japan in India.
Documents You Need For Japan’s eVisa
A filled-out and signed visa application form
A valid passport with more than two blank pages.
The passport should be valid for 6 months after the departure date.
Recent passport-size photographs, 2X2 inch.
If self-employed, GST copy of the business; NOC/leave letter from the employer.
Cover Letter by the Employer in case sponsored; by self in case Self Employed.
