Japan Visa for Indians

​Dreaming of cherry blossoms, futuristic cities and centuries-old temples? Japan boasts a blend of rich tradition and cutting-edge innovation, making it a prime destination for Indian travellers.

Before setting off to explore Tokyo’s vibrant streets or Kyoto’s serene landscapes, Indian citizens need a visa for their trip. A Japan visa for Indians is tailored to your travel purposes, such as a short-term tourist visa from India for tourists and a long-term visa for work or other purposes.

Here’s everything Indians need to know about Japan visas, including eligibility criteria, application processes and useful tips to make your Japanese adventure hassle-free. Secure your trip with our travel insurance for Japan plan and enjoy your trip.

Do You Need a Japan Visa for Indians?

Yes, Indian citizens must obtain a Japan visit visa from India before travelling to Japan. The Japanese Embassy in India offers a straightforward process.

As of April 2024, Indian nationals can apply for a Japan tourist visa from India online for short-term stays, making the application process more accessible and efficient.

However, the e-visa is limited to single-entry, short-term tourism purposes. It allows you to stay for up to 90 days. To avoid any delays or issues, ensure that you meet all requirements and apply through the official portal for visas for Indians in Japan.

Is There a Japan Visa on Arrival for Indians?

No, Indian citizens are not eligible for a Japan-Indian visa on arrival. That means if you wish to travel to Japan for any reason, be it tourism or business, you must apply for a visa before your trip.

The process of applying for a visa depends on the duration of your stay in Japan. For example, if you are visiting for a short period, such as a tourist, you need to apply for a short-term visa. The procedure changes for long-term or diplomatic visas.

However, whatever your purpose or duration of stay is, Indians are not allowed a  Japan visa for Indians on arrival and need to apply for it in advance.

Types of Japan Visas for Indians

Duration of Different Types of Japan Visas for Indians

Why is Travel Insurance Essential for a Japanese Visa for Indians?

Healthcare Costs

Japan has high healthcare costs. Thus, Reliance Travel Insurance for Japan is essential for covering potential medical expenses.

Emergency Evacuation

Our insurance for Japan travel covers emergency evacuation costs, which is especially important for individuals with chronic health conditions.

Trip Cancellations or Delays

Our insurance for travel to Japan provides financial protection against unexpected trip cancellations, delays or interruptions.

Personal Liability

Travel insurance covers legal expenses in cases of accidental damage or injury to third parties in Japan.

Comprehensive Coverage

Our travel insurance for Japan visa policies offers comprehensive coverage, including medical, accidental and trip-related issues specific to Japan’s unique needs.

Peace of Mind

We ensure travellers have a safety net for any unforeseen incidents and enhance your travel security and enjoyment.

Features of Japan Visa for Indians

• Application Process: Applications for the e-visa can be submitted through designated Japan Visa Application Centers (JVAC) or online.
• Japan Visa Requirements for Indians: A valid passport, visa application form, financial proof and travel itinerary are mandatory.
• Visa Types: Various visas are available, including business, student, work and Japan tourist visas from India, each with specific criteria.
• Single/Multiple Entries: Some visas allow for multiple entries, while others are single-entry, depending on the purpose of travel.
• Processing Time: Visa processing typically takes about four to five working days, although this may vary based on specific circumstances or application volume.
• Special Conditions: Some categories of Japan visas for Indian citizens may require additional documentation, such as employer letters for work visas or school admission letters for student visas.
• Japan Visa Cost for Indians: Visa fees vary based on the type of visa and processing speed, with additional charges for urgent processing

Who Should Apply for a Japan Visa?

• Tourists: Those planning to explore Japan’s culture, history, or natural beauty must apply for a Japan tourist visa from India.
• Business Travellers: Attending conferences, meetings or short-term business activities.
• Students and Researchers: Short-term academic visits for learning or research require a Japan visit visa from India.
• Family Visitors: Those visiting relatives residing in Japan.
• Workers: Professionals with job offers in Japan require a valid Japan work visa for Indians.
• Transiting Passengers: Individuals passing through Japan to another destination need a transit visa.

Each category may have specific Japan visa requirements for Indian citizens, so applicants should verify details through the Japanese Embassy or Consulates in India.

Factors You Must Know When Applying for a Japan Visa for Indians

• Processing Time: It typically takes four to five working days but can be longer during peak seasons or for complex applications.
• Japan Visa Requirements For Indians: Essential documents include a passport, visa application form, photographs, travel itinerary and proof of financial stability (bank statements, sponsorship letters).
• Eligibility Criteria: This varies based on the visa type. For example, student visas require acceptance from a Japanese institution, while a Japanese tourist visa from India does not require it.
• Financial Proof: Applicants of Japan visiting visas from India must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living expenses during their stay. This may include bank statements or proof of income.
• Application Fees: Japan e-visa for Indian fees vary based on the visa type and duration, with additional charges for expedited processing.
• Travel Insurance: It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical expenses for the duration of the stay.
• Compliance with Japanese Laws: Adherence to immigration rules and local laws is crucial for a successful application and a pleasant visit.

Eligibility Criteria for Japan Visa for Indian Passport Holders

• Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry and have at least two blank pages.
• Completed Visa Application: Accurately filled and signed Japan visa application form, available online and at Japan Visa Application Centers.
• Proof of Financial Stability: Recent bank statements, income proof or sponsorship letters to demonstrate financial ability to cover travel expenses.
• Travel Itinerary: Documented proof of travel plans, including flight reservations and hotel bookings, is required to verify the purpose and duration of a Japan tourist visa from India.
• Letter of Purpose: For non-tourist visas, such as business or work visas, a letter stating the purpose of travel and invitation letters is included in Japan’s visa requirements for Indian citizens.
• Photographs: Recent, passport-size photographs meeting Japan e-visa requirements for Indian citizens.

How to Apply for a Japan Visa for Indians?

Short-Term Visa or Japan E-Visa for Indians

1. Visit Japan’s online visa application website.
2. Ensure that you fulfil the requirements and check the required documents for your application.
3. Register on the portal with your email address. Log in with your new credentials to apply for a Japan tourist visa from India.
4. Fill in all required details, including personal information, purpose of visit, travel itinerary and accommodation information.
5. Attach digital copies of required documents, like passport scans, a recent photograph and flight details.
6. Confirm the details, pay the applicable Japan visa fee for Indians and submit. Only credit cards are accepted as payment methods.
7. Processing takes a few business days; you’ll receive an email notification once approved.

Work or Long-Term Visa

1. Access and download the form on the Japan MOFA website.
2. Complete your application with specific information related to your work or intended long-term stay.
3. Gather the documents, such as employment offer letters, proof of sponsorship, financial documents and a valid passport.
   
4. Submit your application in person at the nearest Japan Embassy or Consulate ​along with the India to Japan visa price.
5. Attend any requested interview and provide additional information for you, if needed.

Visa for Medical Stay

1. Consult a recognised Japanese medical institution to get a certificate for your treatment via the guarantors.
2. Fill out the application form specific to medical visas from the nearest Japan Embassy or Consulate.
3. Attach the Japan visa requirements for Indians, such as a passport, a certificate from a medical institution about the planned medical services and references from a guarantor, financial proof, etc.
4. File your application for the Japan visit visa from India and documents at the local Embassy.

Visa Application Through VFS Global

1. Visit the VFS Global website ​to apply for a Japan visa.
2. Select your visa type to proceed.
3. Download the appropriate visa application form based on your application type.
4. Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents to the VFS centre.
5. The application is processed and approved by the Embassy of Japan in India.

Japan Visa Price for Indians

*Note that this Japan visa cost for Indians is as of October 2024. To get the latest updates, visit or contact the Embassy. Additionally, if you apply through the VFS Global portal, additional platform fees may apply.

Japan Visa for Indian Documents Required

• Valid Passport: To fulfil Japan visa requirements for Indian citizens, the passport must be valid for six months and have blank pages.
• Completed Visa Application Form: Downloaded and filled accurately.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photograph.
• Financial Proof: Recent bank statements, income proof or sponsorship if required.
• Travel Itinerary: Confirmed flight and accommodation details to fulfil Japan tourist visa requirements for Indian citizens.
• Letter of Invitation: Necessary for certain visas, such as business or student. For example, Japanese work visa requirements for Indian citizens require you to present a valid offer letter.
• Medical Certificate: A treatment certificate from a Japanese institution is required for a Japan visit visa from India for medical stays.

*For a comprehensive list of documents required for a Japan visa for Indians, visit the Japan Visa website.

Japan Visa Processing Time for Indians

How to Track the Status of the Japanese Visa Process for Indians?

If you have applied directly through the Embassy or the Consulate, you will receive the approval or denial letter to your registered email address.

However, if you have applied through the VFS Global website, here is how you can track it.

1. Go to the VFS Global tracking page ​to know the status of your Japan visa for an Indian passport.
2. Enter your reference number and date of birth.
3. Enter the captcha and submit your request.
4. The status of your Japan e-visa for Indians will be displayed on the screen.

What is the Validity of a Japan Visa for Indians?

Japan Visa Renewal Process for Indian Citizens

Renewing a Japan visa for Indian citizens requires reapplying for your respective visa, as Japan does not offer a direct visa “renewal” online option. However, if you wish to extend your visa, you must:

• Check the eligibility of your visa for extension, as not all visa types are renewable. For example,
• Apply for an extension 3 months prior to the expiry of your current visa.
• Ensure there are no legal violations and you have proof of sufficient financial capacity.

Once you fulfil the requirements, you can apply to the nearest Immigration Office in Japan for an extension of your current Japan e-visa for Indians. For this, you will need a duly filled application form along with the required documents.

COVID-19 Guidelines for Japan Visa for Indian Citizens

Vaccination Certificate:

A valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate is not mandatory when applying for an Indian visa for Japan.

Quarantine Measures:

Unvaccinated travellers, or those from specific regions, do not need to follow Japan’s quarantine protocols upon arrival for their specific Japan visit visa from India.

Negative RT-PCR Test:

As per current Japanese health regulations, you no longer need to submit a negative RT-PCR test result conducted within 72 hours prior to departure.

Health Monitoring:

Completion of an online health declaration form prior to entry is a mandatory Japan visa requirement for Indians. This form, accessible through the Japanese government’s portal, expedites health checks at arrival.

Insurance Recommendation:

Travellers are encouraged to secure travel insurance for their Japan tourist visa from India and other types of visas as well. Our insurance includes COVID-19 coverage for any treatment needs in Japan.

*Note that these guidelines are continually updated, so applicants of a Japanese visa for Indian citizens should refer to the latest information on Japan's MOFA COVID-19 page.

Common Reasons for Japan Visa for Indians Rejections and How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete Applications: Submit fully filled-out application forms with accurate details, checking for missing information before submission.
• Missing Documents: Ensure that all required documents are submitted together to avoid the delay of your Indian visa for Japan. This includes financial statements, proof of accommodation and flight details.
• Inconsistent Information: Any discrepancies between personal details across documents (e.g., name, date of birth) can lead to rejection. So, carefully verify the consistency of your Japan tourist visa from India and other visa types.
• Insufficient Financial Proof: Applicants should provide sufficient recent bank statements or sponsorship letters to demonstrate financial stability for their stay.
• Invalid Passport: A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay; shorter validity may cause issues.
• Incorrect Photo Specifications: Photographs must adhere to specific photo guidelines of Japan visa requirements for Indians. Ensuring the correct size and background helps prevent delays.

These careful steps can help avoid common pitfalls and improve application outcomes.

Things to Know About Japan

• Cultural Etiquette: Bowing is a common form of greeting and shows respect. Removing shoes before entering a home or certain establishments is customary.
• Food: Japanese cuisine offers dishes like sushi, ramen and tempura. Regional specialities vary, with Osaka known for okonomiyaki and Hokkaido for fresh seafood.
• Transportation: Japan’s train system is highly efficient and reliable, with bullet trains (Shinkansen) connecting major cities. Consider a Japan Rail Pass for easy travel to all the places worth visiting in Japan.
• Currency: Japan uses the Japanese Yen (JPY). Many places accept cash only, so carrying some cash is advisable, though ATMs are widely available.
• Language: While many Japanese speak limited English, key phrases in Japanese can be helpful. Many famous places of interest in Japan often have signs in English.
• Customs: Politeness is vital; speaking softly in public and not tipping is customary. Cleanliness is also highly valued, so disposing of trash responsibly is important.

​Best Places to Visit in Japan

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Do Indians need travel insurance for Japan?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for Japanese visas but is highly recommended. Japan’s healthcare system is costly for uninsured visitors; thus, travel insurance can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations or lost belongings.

Buying Reliance travel insurance for Japan provides financial protection, especially in emergencies, ensuring a stress-free journey.

• What types of Japanese visas are available for Indians?

Japan offers various visas to Indian travellers, including tourist, business and student visas. Each visa type has specific requirements and durations based on the applicant's purpose of travel, from short-term sightseeing to long-term work or study.

• What is a Japanese tourist visa for Indians?

The Japan tourist visa is a short-term visa that allows Indian citizens to visit Japan for tourism or sightseeing purposes. Typically valid for a 15- or 30-day stay, it is intended solely for non-commercial activities and prohibits any form of employment.

• Is there a Japan visa on arrival for Indians?

Japan does not offer a Japan visa for Indians on arrival. Indians must apply for a visa through the Japanese Embassy or Consulate before departure. The process requires submitting necessary documents and awaiting approval.

• What are the Japan visa requirements for Indians?

For a Japan visa, Indian applicants must submit a completed application form, valid passport, recent photographs, financial proof (such as bank statements), travel itinerary and possibly a letter of invitation if visiting friends or family. Requirements may vary slightly based on the visa type, so confirming the details before applying is crucial.

• How long does it take for the Japan visa process for Indians?

The standard processing time for a Japan visa ranges from 3 to 7 working days after submission, depending on the Embassy’s workload and the applicant’s background. For urgent cases, expedited processing may be available upon request, but applicants should plan in advance to avoid delays.

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• What is Trip Cancellation Insurance - Complete Guide
• Visa Rejections: Common Reasons and How to Avoid Them
• Important Questions To Ask Your Travel Agent While Travelling Abroad

Disclaimers:

*T&C Apply. For more details on risk factors, terms conditions, brochure, and exclusions, please read the policy wording and CIS carefully before concluding a sale.

Details mentioned here are for Reliance Travel Care Policy, UIN: RELTIOP08002V010708.  Sum Insured: The mentioned Sum insured amount is applicable only under Reliance Travel Care Policy – Individual – Platinum Plan. Total loss of checked baggage: Maximum amount payable per checked-in baggage in case more than one bag has been checked in, is 50% (100% for only one checked-in baggage) of applicable sum insured and per item in baggage maximum 10%.

Claim Settlement Ratio: This is the overall claim settlement ratio for FY 2023-24 without claim outstanding at the start of the financial year as per public disclosure of Reliance General Insurance Co. Ltd.

Premium: The premium mentioned is excluding taxes for a medical sum insured of $25,000 for an Individual of 20 years on an Asia trip of 4 days. This is applicable for the Asia plan only.