The short answer
Indian passport holders need a visa for Japan. Since April 2024, a single-entry tourist visa (for stays of up to 90 days) can be issued as an eVisa, applied for through VFS Global's Japan Visa Application Centres. We checked this against the Embassy of Japan in India and VFS on 5 October 2026.
Fees
Japan raised visa fees for most countries from 1 July 2026, but Indian nationals still pay ₹500 under a concession, according to the Embassy of Japan in India. VFS adds a service charge of ₹800, and courier is optional. Some websites quote much higher fees for Indians; the embassy figure is the one that applies.
Timing
Processing takes a minimum of three working days, and the embassy notes it can vary significantly and cannot be expedited. You can apply up to 89 days before travel. For cherry blossom season, apply as early as that window allows.
Documents
Your passport, a recent photograph on a white background, proof of finances, your itinerary, and a guarantee letter where it applies. We prepare a checklist for each traveller.
At the airport
The eVisa must be shown live on your phone at check-in and on arrival in Japan. Screenshots, PDFs and printouts are not accepted, so keep your phone charged and the visa notice open before you queue.
