The News That Sparked the Conversation
On July 1, 2026, Japan implemented its first major visa fee revision in nearly 50 years. The cost for most foreign nationals saw a dramatic fivefold increase. A single-entry visa jumped from JPY 3,000 to JPY 15,000 (approximately ₹8,760), while a multiple-entry
visa went from JPY 6,000 to JPY 30,000 (around ₹17,520). This significant hike was announced to help cover the administrative costs of managing a growing foreign population and to align Japan’s fees more closely with other G7 nations, especially considering factors like inflation and the weaker yen. For many would-be tourists around the globe, this change represents a substantial new cost, prompting discussions about trip budgets and affordability.
A Major Exemption for Indian Travellers
Here’s the good news that might have been lost in the noise: Indian passport holders are exempt from this global visa fee hike. According to official communications from the Embassy of Japan in India, Indian nationals applying from within India will continue to pay the existing fee of just ₹500 for both single-entry and multiple-entry visas. This special arrangement is believed to stem from bilateral agreements between India and Japan, insulating Indian tourists from one of the most significant visa fee revisions Japan has ever made. So, while the global headlines shouted about a price surge, the direct cost for Indians remains exceptionally low, making Japan one of the most affordable long-haul destinations in terms of visa fees.
What You Will Actually Pay
While the core visa fee remains ₹500, it's important to remember the total cost. Applications in India are handled by VFS Global, which charges a service fee of ₹800 (inclusive of taxes) per application. Therefore, the total out-of-pocket expense for an Indian applicant is ₹1,300. One small change to note is that the separate transit visa category, which previously cost ₹50, has been abolished. Travellers transiting through Japan will now need to apply for a standard temporary visitor visa. The application process itself remains unchanged, with no prior appointment needed to submit documents at a VFS centre.
Why Japan Remains a Top Destination
The continued affordability of the visa is a huge plus, as Japan’s popularity among Indian travellers has been skyrocketing. In the first four months of 2026, Japan saw an 18.3% increase in visitors from India compared to the previous year. This trend is driven by a unique blend of ancient culture and futuristic technology, world-class cuisine, and efficient transport. Furthermore, the weaker yen has made the overall cost of a trip—including accommodation, shopping, and local experiences—more budget-friendly than many popular destinations in Europe. Travellers are increasingly looking for deeper, experience-led trips, from exploring anime districts in Tokyo to seeking out serene temples in Kyoto, and Japan delivers on all fronts.
