Starting from April 1, 2024, Japan has revolutionized its visa issuance process for Indian tourists by introducing electronic visas (eVisas), thereby eliminating the requirement for physical visa stickers in passports. This transformative system allows applicants to electronically apply for visas through designated Japan Visa Application Centres operated by VFS Global. Tailored specifically for tourism, the Japan eVisa grants holders a single-entry short-term visa, permitting a stay of up to 90 days in Japan. The eligibility for this eVisa extends to both Indian citizens and foreign nationals residing in India, and the application process is streamlined and centralized through the Visa Application Centres managed by VFS Global, thereby simplifying the entire procedure.
To initiate the application process, individuals are required to visit the official website of the Japan Visa Application Centre managed by VFS Global and select the “Temporary Visitor Visa” option. Subsequently, applicants must meticulously check all visa requirements, download the application form, accurately complete it, print it out, and ensure that all fields are properly filled. Additionally, they need to prepare photocopies of the necessary documents required for the single-entry short-term tourism visa. Once these initial steps are completed, applicants proceed to book an appointment to submit their application at the Visa Application Centre, and upon booking, they receive an appointment confirmation email containing the letter of appointment.
During the appointment, applicants are required to present the completed visa application form at the centre. Following the submission, they await an email notification indicating when their decision is ready for collection. Applicants can conveniently track the status of their visa application online using the reference number from the invoice or receipt. Upon successful approval, recipients of the eVisa will receive an electronic visa instead of the traditional visa sticker. However, travelers must remember to display a “visa issuance notice” on their mobile devices upon arrival at the airport.
During airport check-in, travelers are required to present the “visa issuance notice” on their devices. The travel agency will provide a “Visa Issuance Notice” containing a two-dimensional barcode, which travelers can scan using their devices and input the necessary details to access the notice. This innovative approach to visa issuance marks a significant step forward in Japan’s efforts to facilitate smoother entry procedures for Indian tourists while embracing digital advancements in the application process.
