Japan Launches e-Visa for Indian Tourists: Your Thorough Guide from Eligibility to Application Process

Introduction to Japan e-Visas! Effective April 1, 2024, Indian tourists can now obtain their Japan tourist visa in the most simplified way possible. Here’s a complete guide to the effortless visa application process.

Since April 1, Japan has streamlined the visa obtaining process for Indian tourists with e-Visa facility. This much-awaited provision now enables Indians and foreigners residing in India to apply for their tourist visas electronically through Japan Visa Application Centers managed by VFS Global. The programme will allow tourists to relish the beauty of Japan for up to 90 days for tourism purposes.

The process of applying will still remain the same. However, one significant change can be seen in the issuance process. Rather than receiving traditional visa stickers affixed to their passports, approved applicants will now receive electronic visas. Moreover, it’s important to bear in mind that upon arrival, any e-Visa proof other than digital visa issuance notice will not be entertained. It includes photos, screenshots, PDF formats, or printed copies.

What is the Eligibility Criteria?

Eligible countries and regions for the e-Visa include Canada, South Africa, the U.A.E., the U.S.A., Australia, Cambodia, Singapore, Taiwan, Brazil, and the U.K. Apart from these nations, citizens and residents of India or foreign nationals residing in India are also eligible for the e-Visa.However, any individual residing in these countries who is exempt from applying for short-term visa, can’t apply.

Steps to Follow while Applying

Step 1: Visit the official webpage of the Japan Visa Application Center, managed by VFS Global

URL: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/jpn/

Step 2: 

Click on the “Temporary Visitor Visa” option and go through all the visa requirements carefully. Once you have read the terms and conditions, download the application form and ensure it’s filled out accurately.

Print the completed form and make sure to prepare photocopies of the essential documents needed for single-entry short-term tourism application.

Step 3:

Make an appointment online to submit your e-Visa application at the Visa Application Center. Upon successful booking, you will receive a confirmation email along with an appointment letter.

Step 4:

In this step, ensure that you attend your scheduled appointment and submit your completed application form. After submission, wait for an email notification stating the status of your application.

Also, you can track your application’s progress online using the reference number provided at the time of application submission, along with your date of birth. The whole application process takes hardly five to six business days.

Step 5:

Once you get your e-Visa or “Visa Issuance Notice” on your email, it’s time to take off. During the airport security check-in, display your e-Visa on your device (make sure you have an internet connection).

The travel agency will provide a two-dimensional barcode on the “Visa Issuance Notice,”  which you have to scan with your device and fill in with the required details. Tap “Display,” and the “Visa Issuance Notice” will appear with a countdown timer shown at the top right.

Remember, during the application process, tourists may need to personally visit the Japanese overseas office that has jurisdiction over their place of residence for an interview.