Japan has revised its visa fee structure for travelers worldwide, effective July 1, 2026, marking the first such adjustment in several years. While most foreign nationals now face significantly higher costs, Indian passport holders continue to benefit from a special concessional rate, paying just Rs 500 for both single-entry and multiple-entry visas.
This long-standing arrangement positions Japan as one of the most affordable international destinations for Indian travelers seeking a visa.
New Visa Fee Structure for Other Nationalities
The revised schedule highlights a considerable disparity between the fees paid by Indian citizens and those from other countries. Foreign nationals applying for a Japanese visa in India will now pay:
- Single-entry visa: Rs 8,650
- Multiple or double-entry visa: Rs 17,350
In contrast, Indian applicants pay a consistent Rs 500 across both categories. It is important to note that VFS Global service charges apply to all applicants in addition to the visa fee.
A notable change affecting all nationalities is the abolition of the separate transit visa category. Travelers who previously utilized transit visas for layovers in Japan may now be required to apply for an appropriate short-term stay visa instead.
Applying for a Japanese Visa in India
Indian citizens must submit their visa applications through authorized VFS centers. The Embassy of Japan in India advises applicants to apply up to three months before their intended travel date, but no earlier than this window.
In April 2024, Japan also introduced an eVisa system for eligible short-term travelers from India. The availability and applicability of the eVisa depend on the specific visa category and the purpose of the visit.
Required Documentation
While exact documentation can vary based on the purpose of travel (e.g., tourism, business, visiting relatives, conferences, or study), general requirements for most visa categories include:
- A valid Indian passport
- A completed application form
- A recent passport-size photograph
- Confirmed flight tickets
- Accommodation details
- Financial documents demonstrating sufficient funds for the stay
- A detailed travel itinerary
For tourism, applicants specifically need to clearly demonstrate their purpose of travel and prove they have adequate financial resources to support their visit. Multiple-entry visas are available to eligible Indian nationals, offering greater flexibility for frequent travelers.