The Visa: Surprisingly Affordable
First, the good news. While Japan implemented a major global visa fee hike on July 1, 2026, Indian citizens are exempt from this increase due to a bilateral agreement. The visa application fee for Indian nationals remains a very modest ₹500 for both single
and multiple-entry tourist visas. This makes the initial and most crucial document for your trip one of the least expensive. Applications can be submitted through VFS Global, Japan's official visa application partner in India, or via the new e-visa system for eligible tourists. The e-visa, launched in April 2024, allows for a completely online process for a single-entry tourist visa of up to 90 days.
VFS Service Charge: The Mandatory Extra
Whether you apply for a traditional sticker visa or use the e-visa service, you will have to pay a service charge. For applications submitted at a VFS Global centre, there is a mandatory, non-refundable service charge of ₹800 per application. This is in addition to the ₹500 visa fee, bringing the minimum mandatory cost for a sticker visa application to ₹1,300. The e-visa application also has a service fee, which can be around ₹3,200 in total. Remember that optional services, like courier return of your passport, will incur additional charges, typically around ₹550.
Travel Insurance: A Necessary Safeguard
While not always explicitly mandatory for all tourists, having comprehensive travel insurance is a non-negotiable part of the visa documentation process and a wise investment. The Japanese embassy requires proof that you can handle medical emergencies, and travel insurance is the best way to demonstrate this. Plans for Japan from India are quite affordable, with basic coverage for a short trip starting from as little as ₹515. These plans typically cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss or delay, and passport loss, providing crucial financial protection and peace of mind.
Supporting Documents: Small but Specific Costs
Beyond the main fees, several other documents require some expenditure of time and money. You will need recent passport-sized photographs, typically with a white background and specific dimensions (often 45mm x 35mm or 2x2 inches). A set of these can cost a few hundred rupees at a local photo studio. You also need to provide proof of funds, which involves submitting the last 6 months of your bank statements. While many banks provide these for free via net banking, obtaining a stamped and signed physical copy from a branch might incur a nominal fee. Additionally, you will need confirmed return flight tickets and hotel reservations for your visa application.
For Drivers: International Driving Permit (IDP)
If you plan to rent a car and explore Japan's scenic countryside, your Indian driving license alone won't suffice. You will need an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is an official translation of your domestic license and is required by most rental agencies in Japan. You can apply for an IDP online via the Parivahan Sarathi portal or in person at your local RTO. The official application fee for an IDP is ₹1,000. You'll need to submit documents including your valid driving license, passport and visa copies, and a medical certificate (Form 1A). The permit is typically issued within a few working days and is valid for one year.
