Japan Introduces E-Visa for Indian Tourists
Visiting Japan just got simpler for Indian passport holders, as Japan has introduced e-Visas. Here's a handy guide to help you through the smooth application process.
Now, Indian travelers no longer have to worry about carrying a physical visa sticker when heading to Japan. Starting April 1, Japan has started issuing eVisas for Indian tourists. The eagerly awaited Japan e-Visa program lets anyone apply for a visa online through Japan Visa Application Centers run by VFS Global. With this program, tourists can stay in Japan for up to 90 days for tourism purposes.
Under this new system, applicants still need to submit their applications to the Visa Application Centers managed by VFS Global, just like before. But there's a significant change in how visas are issued now. Instead of getting the traditional visa stickers stuck in their passports, successful applicants will now receive electronic visas.
When arriving at the airport, travelers will need to show a ‘visa issuance notice' on their mobile device. It's worth noting that internet access is necessary for this step. Anything other than a digital visa issuance notice, like PDFs, photos, screenshots, or printed copies, won't be accepted.
Who can apply?
Citizens and residents of certain countries and regions are eligible, including Brazil, Taiwan, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Cambodia, Saudi Arabia, and the USA.
Additionally, Indian citizens and foreign nationals living in India are also included in the eligibility criteria. People from these countries or regions (with some exceptions for those exempt from short-term visas) can apply for an eVisa through the Japan e-Visa website.
How to apply Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for the eVisa:
Step 1: Start by going to the official website of the Japan Visa Application Centre, managed by VFS Global, at https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/jpn/.
Step 2: Select the “Temporary Visitor Visa” option and carefully read all the visa requirements. Download the application form, fill it out accurately, and print it. Make sure all fields are complete.
Step 3: Book an appointment to submit your application at the Visa Application Centre. Once you've made the booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, including a letter of appointment.
Step 4: Submit your completed visa application form at the center during your appointment. Then, wait for an email notification telling you when your decision is ready for collection.
You can track the progress of your visa application online using the reference number from your invoice or receipt. If your eVisa is approved, you'll receive an electronic visa instead of a physical sticker. But remember, you'll still need to show a “visa issuance notice” on your mobile device when you arrive at the airport.
Step 5: When checking in at the airport, show the “visa issuance notice” on your device. The travel agency will provide a “Visa Issuance Notice” with a two-dimensional barcode. Simply scan the barcode with your device and enter the necessary details to access the notice. Tap “Display” to view your electronic “visa issuance notice.”
Additionally, be prepared to provide photocopies of the required documents for the single-entry short-term tourism visa during the application process.
Click for more updates and the latest world news, along with Web stories updates. Also, get the latest news and top headlines from India and around the world at Speed News
