Japan has offered an eVISA to tourists from India since 1 April 2024. You still apply through VFS Global, but you get your visa as an electronic notice instead of a sticker in your passport.
Who can use the eVISA
| Detail | Japan eVISA from India |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Single-entry short-term tourism only |
| Stay | Up to 90 days |
| Who can apply | Indian nationals and foreign nationals living in India |
| Where to apply | Japan Visa Application Centres run by VFS Global |
| Fee | ₹500 for Indian nationals (from 1 July 2026), plus VFS service fee |
| When to apply | Up to 3 months before travel |
Business trips, family visits on a multiple-entry visa and longer stays still need a traditional sticker visa. For business trips, see our guide to the Japan business visa.
How to apply
- Prepare your documents (checklist below).
- Submit at your VFS Japan centre. Use the centre covering the state where you live. No prior appointment is needed.
- Pay the fee of ₹500 plus the VFS service charge.
- Receive your visa issuance notice electronically once approved.
Typical documents
- Passport with at least two blank pages
- Completed and signed visa application form with a recent photo
- Flight booking and day-by-day itinerary in Japan
- Hotel bookings
- Bank statement for the last 6 months and latest income tax return
- Employment letter, or business registration if self-employed
For photo rules, see our visa photo requirements tool.
Showing your eVISA at the airport
This is where travellers get caught out. You must show the visa issuance notice live on a mobile device, and you need internet access to load it.
A PDF, photo, screenshot or printout is not accepted. Make sure you have roaming, a Japan eSIM or airport Wi-Fi before you reach immigration.
Planning for cherry-blossom season
Sakura season usually runs from late March to early April. Applications open 3 months before travel, so for an early April trip apply from early January. Book flights and hotels early, as prices rise sharply in that window.
Frequently asked questions
No. You still submit at a VFS centre; only the visa itself is electronic.
No. It covers tourism only; business travellers need a sticker visa.
₹500 for Indian nationals, plus the VFS service fee.
No. Only the live notice on your phone is accepted.
Sources
- Embassy of Japan in India: The JAPAN eVISA system
- Embassy of Japan in India: Visa information and fees
- VFS Global: Japan visa, India
Disclaimer: Visa rules, fees and processing times can change. Confirm the latest details with the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan, or with VFS Global, before you book or apply.