Do Indians need a visa for Japan?
Yes. Indian passport holders need a tourist visa for Japan. The good news is it's cheap (the government fee is just ₹510) and there's now an eVISA option for eligible travellers alongside the traditional sticker visa via VFS Global. The catch is documentation — Japan is thorough, and from 2026 wants three years of income-tax returns. Planning the trip? See our Japan travel guide, and estimate fees with the visa fee calculator.
Fees: cheap visa, small service charges
The government fee is ₹510 (single entry) or ₹1,020 (multiple). VFS Global adds a service fee (~₹800) and optional courier (~₹550), so the realistic all-in cost is ₹1,300–1,900 — among the cheapest visas Indians can get. Rush processing isn't offered, so apply early.
Documents (Japan is strict)
- Passport valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages.
- Visa application form (filled, printed, signed) and a 45mm × 45mm photo, white background.
- Three years of ITR and recent bank statements.
- Day-by-day itinerary, flight and hotel bookings.
- Employment/business proof and a cover letter.
Strong, well-organised finances are the key to approval. Travel insurance is recommended — see our insurance guide.
Step-by-step: how to apply
- Choose eVISA (if eligible) or the sticker visa via VFS Global.
- Fill the application and prepare documents — including 3 years of ITR.
- Book a VFS appointment (or apply online for eVISA) 4–8 weeks before travel.
- Submit documents and pay the ₹510 fee plus VFS service/courier charges.
- Track the application; processing is 4–7 working days (longer in peak season).
- Collect your passport/eVISA; carry a printout and digital copy.
Cost summary
| Government visa fee (single) | ₹510 |
|---|---|
| Government visa fee (multiple) | ₹1,020 |
| VFS service fee | ~₹800 |
| Courier return | ~₹550 |
| All-in (single, typical) | ~₹1,300 – 1,900 |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting only one year of ITR — Japan now wants three years.
- Applying late — there's no rush processing, and peak season adds days.
- Weak or unexplained bank statements — Japan scrutinises finances.
- Photo not meeting the 45×45mm white-background spec.
- Vague itinerary — provide a clear day-by-day plan with bookings.
- Passport with under 6 months validity or no blank pages.
Alternatives compared
| Route | Best for | Validity | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| eVISA (single) | Eligible online applicants | Short tourist stay | ₹510 + service |
| Sticker visa via VFS | Standard applicants | Short tourist stay | ₹510 + service |
| Multiple-entry | Frequent visitors | Per conditions | ₹1,020 + service |
Final recommendation
Japan's visa is cheap (₹510 government fee, ~₹1,300–1,900 all-in) but document-heavy, so the win is in preparation: assemble three years of ITR, clean bank statements and a clear day-by-day itinerary, and apply 4–8 weeks ahead — earlier for cherry-blossom or autumn. Use the eVISA if you're eligible, otherwise apply through VFS. Keep your passport valid six months, and confirm the current document list with VFS before you submit.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for Japan?
Yes — a short-term tourist visa, available as an eVISA (since April 2024) or a sticker visa via VFS Global.
How much is a Japan visa for Indians?
The government fee is ₹510 (single) or ₹1,020 (multiple); with VFS service and courier the all-in cost is about ₹1,300–1,900.
How long does a Japan visa take?
About 4–7 working days. There's no rush option, and peak season (spring/autumn) can add 2–3 days.
What documents does Japan require from Indians in 2026?
Passport, form, a 45×45mm photo, three years of ITR, bank statements, a day-by-day itinerary and flight/hotel bookings.
Is there a Japan eVISA for Indians?
Yes — eligible Indian travellers can apply for a short-term tourist eVISA online instead of a sticker visa.
How early should I apply for a Japan visa?
4–8 weeks before travel, and earlier for cherry-blossom (Mar–May) or autumn (Oct–Nov) seasons.