Updated: October 7, 2026. Japan has made the biggest changes to its visa system in nearly five decades. This update explains what changed, what the fee hike means for Indians, and the new VFS appointment rules.
The Big Headline: Japan’s First Visa Fee Hike Since 1978
In a Cabinet decision reported in June 2026, Japan revised its visa fees for the first time since 1978. Effective for applications submitted on or after July 1, 2026:
- Single-entry visa: ¥3,000 → ¥15,000 (about INR 8,760)
- Multiple-entry visa: ¥6,000 → ¥30,000 (about INR 17,520)
Japan’s Foreign Minister stated the revision reflects inflation and exchange-rate fluctuations over those decades.
Here is the part that matters for Indians: reports confirm this fee hike does NOT apply to Indian citizens. Indians continue to pay approximately INR 500 for both single and multiple-entry visas. So while travellers from many countries now pay five times more, your visa fee stays the same. VFS service charges apply separately on top.
Japan E-Visa: Online Applications for Indians
Alongside the fee changes, Japan has been rolling out its electronic visa (e-Visa) for eligible categories, including Indian travellers. The e-Visa covers short-term stays — tourism and short-term business visits of up to 90 days — letting applicants complete the process online without repeated consulate visits.
Key points as reported:
- Processing time: commonly reported at 5–10 working days, though travellers are advised to apply 3–4 weeks before departure, especially in peak seasons.
- The critical document: Japan demands a detailed day-by-day travel itinerary — where you will be on each date and what you plan to do. A vague or missing itinerary is one of the top reasons applications get delayed.
Always check the official website of the Embassy of Japan in India for the latest accepted categories before applying.
New VFS Appointment Rules at Four South Indian Centres
Another reported change: walk-in applications ended at four VFS Global centres in South India — Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad and Puducherry. Since March 2, 2026, these centres accept Japan visa submissions by appointment only; arriving without a booked slot means refusal.
Walk-ins are still reported as accepted at other VFS Japan centres across India — but given how quickly rules evolve, book an appointment before visiting any centre.
| What changed | Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa fee (worldwide) | Single-entry ¥3,000 → ¥15,000; multiple-entry ¥6,000 → ¥30,000 from July 1, 2026 |
| Indian citizens | Exempt — still ~INR 500 for both types |
| E-Visa | Online application rolling out for short-term categories |
| VFS (Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad, Puducherry) | Appointment-only since March 2, 2026 |
| Processing time | Generally 5–10 working days; apply 3–4 weeks ahead |
What Indian Applicants Should Do Now
- Apply early: 3–4 weeks before departure is the safe window; longer in October–January peak season.
- Build a strong day-wise itinerary: this single document carries unusual weight in Japan applications.
- Budget correctly: ~INR 500 visa fee (Indians exempt from the hike) plus VFS service charges.
- Verify before you go: fees, categories, and appointment rules change — cross-check the Embassy of Japan in India’s official website.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Did Japan increase the visa fee for Indians?
No — reported official announcements confirm Indians are exempt from the July 2026 fee hike and still pay pay approximately INR 500 for both single and multiple-entry visas.
How long does a Japan visa take for Indians?
Generally 5–10 working days, but apply at least 3–4 weeks before departure — longer in peak months.
Can Indians apply for a Japan visa online?
Japan’s e-Visa is rolling out for eligible short-term categories including Indian tourists. Check the Embassy of Japan in India’s official website for current eligibility.
Do I need a VFS appointment for a Japan visa?
Yes at Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad and Puducherry (appointment-only since March 2, 2026). Elsewhere walk-ins are still reported, but booking ahead is safer.
📞 Sunlight Holidays se baat karein
Visa, tour package ya videsh job se judi kisi bhi jaankari ke liye WhatsApp karein: 9720 3449 39
💰 Payment After Reach model — bhaari advance nahi, pehle bharosa.
📝 Consultation/Application fee: ₹799 (non-refundable, kaam shuru hone ke baad)
⚠️ Disclaimer: Sunlight Holidays ek travel consultancy hai — hum sarkar, embassy ya immigration department nahi hain. Visa approval, fees, processing time aur final faisla sambandhit embassy/sarkari authority ka hota hai. Kripya antim nirnay se pehle official embassy/government website se latest jaankari verify zaroor karein.