03 Apr

Japan begins issuing eVisas for Indian tourists; Here's how to apply and use the eVisa

Indians who want to visit Japan will no longer need to get physical visa stickers on their passports. Starting April 1, Japan has begun issuing eVisas for Indian tourists. The much-awaited Japan eVisa program allows individuals to apply for visas electronically through Japan Visa Application Centers operated by VFS Global.

This initiative offers a single-entry short-term visa catering specifically to tourism purposes, granting a stay of up to 90 days in Japan. Both Indian citizens and foreign nationals residing in India are eligible to apply for this eVisa.

Under the new system, applicants are required to submit their applications to the Visa Application Centers managed by VFS Global, similar to the previous process. However, instead of receiving a traditional visa sticker affixed to their passports, successful applicants will obtain an electronic visa.

The operational process of the eVisa involves travellers presenting a "visa issuance notice" on their phones upon arrival at the airport. It's important to note that access to the internet is necessary for this step. Any format other than a digital visa issuance notice, such as a PDF, photo, screenshot, or printed copy, will not be accepted.

How to display “visa issuance notice”

  1. When checking-in at the airport, you will be requested to display a “visa issuance notice” on your device. Travel agency will provide you a "Visa Issuance Notice" (printed or pdf data) with two-dimensional barcode.
  2. Scan the two-dimensional barcode with your device and enter the required information to display the notice.
  3. By tapping “Display “, the electronic "visa issuance notice" appears and the countdown timer shown at the top right starts immediately. This countdown proves that the notice is valid