Japan Tourist Visa
Short-term Stay Visa (Tourism) · For India citizens
Planning a trip to Japan as an Indian citizen? You will need a Short-term Stay Visa for tourism. This guide covers everything: required documents including bank statements and ITR, the INR 450 visa fee plus INR 800 VFS service charge, and the 5 working day processing time. With an estimated 88% approval rate for Indian applicants, thorough preparation is your key to success.
Japan Tourist Visa for Indian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For India citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Japan
Complete the official Japan visa application form available from the Embassy website or VFS Global
Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Japanese visa photo specifications
A comprehensive day-by-day schedule of your planned activities in Japan
Confirmed hotel reservations covering your entire stay in Japan
Round-trip flight itinerary showing entry and exit from Japan
Recent bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds for your Japan trip
Filed Income Tax Returns showing your annual income
Documentation proving your employment status and leave approval
A personal letter explaining your trip purpose, itinerary, and reason for returning to India
Recommended (Optional)
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies during your stay in Japan
Copies of previous visas to developed countries
Application Process
Indian citizens must apply for a Japan tourist visa through VFS Global, the authorized visa processing partner of the Embassy of Japan in India.1 No appointment is required, and you can submit your application at any VFS center during working hours.3
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather all required documents including passport, photographs, travel itinerary, accommodation bookings, flight reservations, bank statements, and employment proof.1 Create a detailed day-by-day itinerary as Japanese consulates value thorough planning.6
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Download the visa application form from the Embassy of Japan website.1 Fill it completely in English using block letters. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents exactly.
Step 3: Submit at VFS Global
Visit your nearest VFS Global Japan Visa Application Centre.3 Centers are available in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Lucknow, and other cities. Submit your documents and pay the applicable fees.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Standard processing takes 5 working days.5 You will receive an SMS notification when your passport is ready for collection. Track your application status through the VFS Global website.3
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee (Single/Multiple Entry) | ₹450 | Payable at VFS Global |
| VFS Service Charge | ₹800 | Non-refundable |
| Courier Return (Optional) | ₹550 | For passport delivery |
| Transit Visa | ₹50 | If applicable |
Fees are effective from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026.1 Payment can be made in cash or card at VFS Global centers.3 In some locations like Gurugram, Chandigarh, and Lucknow, separate demand drafts are required for each fee component.3
What You Need to Prove
Japanese consulates assess applications based on several key factors.2 You must demonstrate:
Genuine Tourism Intent: Your itinerary should show realistic tourism plans with specific attractions, cities, and activities. Vague plans like “sightseeing in Japan” are insufficient.6
Financial Capacity: Bank statements must show sufficient funds to cover your entire trip including accommodation, transportation, activities, and daily expenses. A consistent balance over 3 to 6 months is more convincing than a recently deposited lump sum.1
Strong Ties to India: Employment letters, property documents, and family obligations demonstrate your intention to return. First-time travelers and young single applicants should emphasize these ties in their cover letter.4
Clean Travel History: Previous visas to developed countries like the US, UK, or Schengen area significantly strengthen your application. If you have prior visa refusals, address them honestly in your cover letter.2
Processing Times
Processing times vary by consulate location:34
| Location | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Chennai | 3 working days minimum |
| Mumbai | 4 working days minimum |
| Delhi | 5 working days |
| Bengaluru | 6 working days |
Processing may take longer during peak travel seasons (cherry blossom season in March-April, autumn foliage in October-November) or if additional verification is required.5 The Embassy does not offer expedited processing based on individual travel schedules.1 Apply at least 2 to 3 weeks before your intended travel date.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Check the validity dates and number of entries carefully. Single-entry visas are typically valid for 3 months from the date of issue.2
At the Japanese port of entry, immigration officers may ask to see:
- Return flight ticket
- Hotel bookings or accommodation proof
- Travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Travel insurance (if you have it)
Keep all documents accessible during your flight. Japan has efficient immigration processing, but be prepared to answer questions about your trip purpose and duration.
If Your Visa is Refused
Japan does not provide detailed reasons for visa refusals and does not have a formal appeal process.2 If refused, you can:
1. Review Your Application
Consider what might have caused the refusal: insufficient funds, weak ties to India, incomplete itinerary, or document inconsistencies.
2. Strengthen Your Documentation
Wait 1 to 3 months before reapplying. Use this time to address potential weaknesses: build savings, obtain stronger employment documentation, or create a more detailed travel plan.
3. Build Travel History
If you have no international travel experience, consider visiting visa-friendly countries first to establish a positive travel record.
4. Seek Professional Help
For complex cases or multiple refusals, consult a visa consultant or immigration specialist familiar with Japanese visa requirements.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Documentation
Bank statements showing low balance, unexplained large deposits, or income that does not match employment documents.
How to avoid: Maintain a consistent balance for 3 to 6 months. Avoid depositing large sums right before applying. Ensure bank credits match your salary slip.
Weak Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to India after the trip, such as unstable employment, no property, or no family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing tenure of 1+ years, property documents, or proof of family dependents. Students should provide college enrollment proof.
Unclear or Incomplete Travel Itinerary
Vague travel plans without specific dates, locations, or activities. Itinerary does not match the requested visa duration or accommodation bookings.
How to avoid: Create a detailed day-by-day itinerary with specific attractions, cities, and transportation. Japanese consulates value thorough planning.
Document Inconsistencies
Information mismatch between application form, bank statements, employment letter, and other documents. Dates, names, or figures do not align.
How to avoid: Cross-verify all documents before submission. Ensure dates, names, and amounts are consistent across all paperwork.
Previous Visa Issues or Poor Travel History
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in other countries. First-time international travelers may face additional scrutiny.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous refusals. Build travel history with visits to visa-friendly countries first. Address any past issues in your cover letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Japan?
Yes, Indian citizens require a Short-term Stay Visa to visit Japan for tourism. The visa must be obtained before travel through VFS Global or the Japanese Embassy/Consulate.
How long does Japan visa processing take from India?
Standard processing takes 5 working days from submission at VFS Global. Processing times vary by consulate: Chennai (3 days), Mumbai (4 days), Delhi (5 days), Bengaluru (6 days).
What is the Japan tourist visa fee for Indians in 2025?
The visa fee is INR 450 for single or multiple entry. VFS Global charges an additional service fee of INR 800. Optional courier return service costs INR 550.
How long can I stay in Japan on a tourist visa?
The Short-term Stay Visa allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism purposes. You cannot work or engage in paid activities during your stay.
What bank balance is required for Japan tourist visa from India?
While there is no official minimum, a balance of INR 1.5 to 2 lakhs or more is recommended for a short trip. The balance should be consistent over 3 to 6 months with regular income credits.
Can I get a Japan visa without ITR?
Income Tax Returns significantly strengthen your application by proving financial stability. If you do not have ITR, you may need strong sponsorship documents or substantial bank savings with clear income sources.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Japan tourist visa?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for the Japan tourist visa, but it is highly recommended. Japan has excellent healthcare but it is expensive for foreign visitors without insurance.
Can I extend my Japan tourist visa?
Tourist visa extensions are generally not permitted. You must leave Japan before your authorized stay expires. For longer stays, you need to apply for a different visa category.
What happens if my Japan visa is rejected?
Japan does not have a formal appeal process for visa refusals. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the reasons for rejection. Wait at least 1 to 3 months before reapplying with stronger documents.
Is Japan eVisa available for Indian citizens?
As of April 2024, Indian citizens can apply for eVisa only if participating in packaged tours through designated travel agencies. Individual travelers must still apply through VFS Global.