The Global Fee Hike That Sparked Confusion
On July 1, 2026, Japan implemented its first major visa fee revision in nearly 50 years, causing a stir among international travellers. The cost for a single-entry visa jumped fivefold from JPY 3,000 to JPY 15,000 (approximately ₹8,760), while a multiple-entry
visa increased from JPY 6,000 to JPY 30,000 (around ₹17,520). This significant increase applies to most foreign nationals who require a visa. Naturally, this news created considerable uncertainty for Indian passport holders, who were left wondering if their travel budgets were about to take a major hit. Some initial reports even included India in the list of affected countries, adding to the ambiguity.
Good News: India is Exempt
Amid the confusion, there is clear and welcome news for Indian travellers: you are exempt from this massive fee hike. The Embassy of Japan in India has clarified that, due to a bilateral arrangement, the visa fee structure for Indian nationals remains unchanged. For Indian passport holders applying in India, the embassy fee remains a very modest ₹500. This applies to both single-entry and multiple-entry tourist visas, making Japan an exceptionally affordable destination from a visa cost perspective. This special pricing insulates Indian applicants from one of the most significant visa fee revisions Japan has ever made.
So, What Is the Total Cost?
While the embassy fee is only ₹500, it's not the final amount you will pay. It's crucial to factor in the mandatory service charge levied by the visa application centre, VFS Global. VFS Global is Japan's authorised partner in India for visa application services. They charge a non-refundable service fee of ₹800 per application, which is inclusive of all taxes. Therefore, the minimum total cost for a standard tourist visa application (both single and multiple entry) is ₹1,300 (₹500 for the visa + ₹800 for VFS services). This is the baseline figure to keep in mind when budgeting for your application.
Understanding Different Visa Types and Costs
Japan offers a few different visa options for Indians. The most common is the Temporary Visitor Visa for tourism, which allows for stays of up to 90 days. As of April 2026, the embassy fee for both single and multiple-entry versions of this visa is the same ₹500 for Indians. There was previously a separate, lower fee for transit visas, but that category has now been merged into the single-entry visa structure. For those eligible for a multiple-entry visa (often based on prior travel history or financial standing), getting one is a cost-effective choice since the government fee is identical to a single-entry visa.
The e-Visa Option
To streamline the process, Japan has also introduced an e-Visa system for Indian residents for single-entry tourist trips. However, it's important to note that Indian citizens cannot apply directly on the Japanese government's e-Visa portal. Instead, the application must be submitted through an accredited travel agency. The fees for this route can vary depending on the agency's service charges, so it is best to confirm the all-inclusive price with the accredited provider you choose. For any other purpose, like business or multi-entry visas, applicants must still go through the traditional paper application route via VFS Global.
Always Check Official Sources
While this guide provides clarity on the current situation, visa rules and fees can change. The most reliable sources of information are always the official ones. Before starting your application, it is highly recommended to check the websites of the Embassy of Japan in India and VFS Global. These sites provide the most up-to-date fee structures, required documents, and application procedures. Relying on official sources ensures you have the correct information and helps avoid any last-minute issues with your travel plans.
