The Golden Number: Just ₹500
In a world of rising travel costs, Japan's visa fee for Indians stands out as a welcome exception. The Embassy of Japan in India has confirmed that despite a global revision of its visa fees starting July 1, 2026, Indian passport holders will continue
to pay only ₹500. This remarkably low fee applies to both single-entry and multiple-entry visas, preserving a long-standing concessional arrangement between the two nations. This move solidifies Japan's position as one of the most affordable major destinations for Indians to get a visa for.
A Sharp Contrast to Global Hikes
To appreciate how significant this is, it's worth looking at the new fees for other nationalities. Following the first major revision in nearly 50 years, Japan has increased its single-entry visa fee fivefold, from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000. This means other foreign nationals applying in India will now pay approximately ₹8,650 for a single-entry visa and a staggering ₹17,350 for a multiple-entry one. Indian applicants, by contrast, pay the same flat ₹500 for either category, highlighting the unique strength of the India-Japan relationship.
Which Visas Are Covered?
The concessional ₹500 fee is broadly applicable across the most common visa categories for Indian travellers, including tourism, business, and visiting friends or relatives. Whether you are planning a short vacation to see the cherry blossoms or attending a business conference, the visa application fee remains the same. It's a consistent policy that simplifies planning for tourists, students, and professionals alike. However, one notable change affects all nationalities: Japan has abolished its separate transit visa category. Travellers who previously used this to pass through the country may now need to apply for a standard short-term stay visa.
The 'Other' Costs to Remember
While the visa fee itself is minimal, it's important to budget for the total cost of the application process. All applications submitted in India must go through authorised VFS Global centres. VFS levies a mandatory service charge of ₹800 per application, inclusive of taxes. This fee is separate from the embassy's visa fee and is non-refundable. So, the effective minimum cost for an Indian applicant is ₹1,300 (₹500 visa fee + ₹800 service charge). Optional services, such as courier return of your passport, are available for an additional charge.
How to Apply and What You'll Need
The application process is straightforward. Applicants need to submit their documents at a VFS centre. It's advisable to apply up to three months before your intended travel date. Since April 2024, Japan has also introduced an eVisa system for Indian nationals for eligible short-term tourism, which can further streamline the process. Essential documents typically include a valid passport, a completed application form, a recent photograph, flight and hotel bookings, a detailed itinerary, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
