Japan Issues Tourist E-Visas For Indians; Here's How To Apply (image-unsplash/David Edelstein)
Dream of visiting Japan for its ancient temples, picturesque cherry blossom gardens, the bustling streets of Tokyo, and the culinary delights of sushi and ramen? Well, now your dream is closer to becoming a reality. Effective April 1 onwards, Japan launched its e-Visa programme for Indian tourists, granting a validity of 90 days for tourists.
The country has streamlined the process of obtaining a visa by introducing electronic visas, or e-visas, for several countries, including India. Applicants can apply through the Japan Visa Application Centres operated by VFS Global. The e-Visas offer a single-entry short-term visa, allowing tourists to stay in the country for up to 90 days.
Travellers will be required to present the digital visa issuance notice on their mobile devices upon arrival. Other formats, such as PDFs, photos, printed copies, or screenshots, will not be considered valid.
Are You Eligible For The E-Visa?
If you are a resident of any of the following countries, then you’re eligible: Brazil, Saudi Arabia, India, Cambodia, Singapore, Taiwan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, the USA, Canada, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Foreign nationals residing in India are also eligible.
Individuals who are exempt from short-term visas cannot apply for an e-visa.
How To Apply?
- Visit Japan’s e-Visa website and choose the “Temporary Visitor Visa” option for your trip. Review all necessary documents carefully. Download the visa application form from the website.
- Fill out the online visa application with the necessary information. Make sure you prepare photocopies of the required documents for the short-term visa.
- Book an appointment at the Visa Application Centre to submit your application. You will receive an appointment confirmation email at your registered email address.
- You will be notified of the results of your visa application via your email ID. Using the reference number from the invoice or receipt issued by the centre and your date of birth, you can track the status of your visa application online.
- Pay the visa fees to the Japanese overseas establishment. Once the payment is successful, an e-Visa will be issued.
