Japan Tourist Visa for Indians Without an Agent: Easy Guide
Planning to travel to Japan and are wondering how to start your visa process?
Don’t worry we got you covered. Cut the agent and the extra fee; check our easy guide and follow this step-by-step process to know all about Japan Tourist Visa for Indians.
Why Skip the Agent?
Going through an agent is an easy way most people apply for visa. However, agents charge double the fee and at times can be unreliable.
We got the Japan Tourist Visa all by ourselves easily, and present to you our easy guide to getting the same.
Step-by-Step Guide: Japan Tourist visa for indians
Applying for Japan visa is straightforward if you know the steps. You will have full control over your application, whilst saving big.
1. Fill the Online Application Form
Start by downloading the visa application from official website available online and complete the application.
If you are applying as a couple, each individual must fill out their own form.
Ensure you upload or attach a recent photograph (within the last 6 months). If your current photo is older, retake it to meet the following specifications:
- Photo size: 2 x 2 inches
- Color: Yes, with a white background
- Paper quality: High-quality photo paper
2. Visit the VFS Office
Once your form is filled you need to take a print of the application along with prints of other documents mentioned below.
Visit your nearest VFS Global office, with your bundle of documents.
- Applicants from Mumbai: No appointment needed.
As we applied from Mumbai, we could just walk-in and submit our application.
You can just go between 8:00 am to 3:00 pm on working days and apply.
Remember 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm is lunch break for officials. Time your visit accordingly so that you don’t have to wait.
- Applicants from Delhi, Bangalore & other cities: Call VFS to confirm if an appointment is necessary. You may need an appointment.
Here are the VFS office addresses in popular Indian Cities.
City | Address
|
Mumbai | Urmi Access Building, Mahalakshmi West |
Delhi | Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Connaught place |
Bangalore | Gopalan Innovation Mall, 3rd Phase, J. P. Nagar |
Chennai | Ramee Mall, Anna Salai, Teynampet |
3. Pay the Fees
- Application Charges: ₹500
- Visa Processing Fee: ₹800
- Passport Delivery Fee: Additional charges apply if you opt for delivery of the signed passport back to your house (Approximately ₹250). This varies depending on courier service providers.
Overall Japan Tourist Visa for Indians would cost you approximately ₹1500- ₹1800 with delivery of passport. At the same time an agent would charge you around ₹3500 – ₹5000 per person, for the same work.
4. Track your Application
You will be informed of your application process through:
- Your registered email ID
- SMS service: You can opt for with a minimal fee.
After you submit your application you will get a tracking ID, which you can enter in the VFS portal to check for your application status.
You will also be informed where your courier (signed passport) has reached once it is despatched.
Documents Checklist: Japan Tourist Visa for Indians
Before you go to VFS to submit your applications, ensure you have the following documents ready:
1. General Documents
- Passport: Printed copies (mandatory for both partners if applying as a couple).
- Roundtrip Flight Ticket & Hotel Bookings: Keep printouts handy.
- Cover Letter & Itinerary: Address this letter to the Director General of the Japan Consulate. This letter should include your detailed travel plan. If applying as a couple, one letter and itinerary with both names will be enough.
2. Financial Documents
- Income Tax Returns: Latest ITR needed. If a couple is applying need this for both.
- 3-Month Bank Statements: Both applicants must provide these. If one is a dependent, include proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate).
3. Employment/Business Documents
- For Employees: A leave approval letter signed by your office.
- For Business Owners: Business registration documents.
Time Taken for Japan Visa Application to Get Done?
If you have submitted all the documents in the right manner, it will take 10-14 business days for the visa to come back to your home signed.
We got our visa in 7 business days.
Tips for a Smooth Process
Timing Matters
You can submit your Japan visa application 3-months before your departure date.
45-70 days is a good buffer time to apply for visa if you have all your documents in place.
We applied 71 days before our trip and the visa officials were surprised as they thought it to be too early!
Organize Your Documents:
Submit separate copies for each applicant, except for the cover letter with itinerary, and travel bookings, which can be combined for couples.
Double-Check Requirements
Policies may vary slightly between cities, so confirm specific details with your local VFS office.
ON A Personal Note...
We applied for our Japan visa from Mumbai, opting to skip the agent. It was easier than expected and much cheaper.
Though the process can seem overwhelming initially, following these steps ensured a smooth application.
Taking control of the process was rewarding, and it gave us peace of mind knowing everything was accurate.
Wondering what to do when in Japan? Check out the below guides:
Asahikawa to Asahiyama Zoo
Exploring Dotonbori in Osaka
Asahikawa to Mount Asahidake
Nara Deer Park
Conclusion
Whether you’re applying for a Japan e-visa for Indians, a dependent visa for Japan from India, or simply exploring the requirements for an India visa to Japan, this guide covers all the essentials.
Take charge, plan early, and enjoy your hassle-free journey to Japan!
Can Indians apply for a Japan e-Visa
From 2024, e-visa has been said to be introduced, however Indians who wish to apply for Japan tourist visa should cross check with VFS global office in their city.
It is safe to follow the online application route and submit the documents in the VFS office.
You will still get a signed passport, unlike the e-visa that you get if you apply for other countries like Vietnam or Indonesia.
How much money do I need to show proof of funds while applying for Japan Visa ?
Having over 2,00,000 INR will be sufficient amount when applying for Japan visa .
However, your Tax returns is the primary proof of funds and your bank statement is not very important.
Do ensure your last years, Tax return documents are up to date and submitted.
