The Japan Tourist Visa (Short-Term Stay/L Visa) application process for Indian passport holders

1. Eligibility & Core Requirements

   • Indian citizens must obtain a Japan tourist visa in advance (no visa-on-arrival). Single- or multiple-entry visas are available, typically valid up to 90 days.

   • Passport must be issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended entry date, and contain at least two blank pages.

   • Travel strictly for tourism, visiting family/friends, or recreational/cultural activities; paid work, business, long-term study, religious residency, or settlement are prohibited.

   • Applicants must demonstrate strong ties to India (employment, family, property), clear intent to return, good health, and no serious criminal or immigration violations.

2. Document Checklist & Required Evidence

   • Completed and signed Japan Visa Application Form (from the official VFS Japan or Embassy site).

   • Original passport and photocopies of biodata, visa, and endorsement pages; any previous passports.

   • Two recent (≤6 months) passport-size color photos (45×45 mm, white background, 70–80% face coverage).

   • Cover letter outlining purpose of visit, duration, detailed itinerary, funding source, and assurance of return.

   • Confirmed round-trip air tickets and full accommodation proof (hotel bookings or invitation letter from Japanese host plus host’s ID/residence card).

   • Day-by-day travel itinerary.

   • Financial proof: bank statements (last 6 months), income tax returns (last 2–3 years), salary slips, or other evidence of sufficient funds.

   • Employment proof: NOC/leave approval letter from employer or business registration documents for self-employed; pension proof for retirees; student enrollment certificate for students.

   • Additional documents for minors: birth certificate, parents’ passports, and notarized parental consent letters.

   • Supplementary ID: Aadhaar card or other Indian government ID.

   • Marital status proof if needed (marriage certificate), invitation letter and host documentation when applicable.

3. Permitted vs. Prohibited Activities

   • Permitted: tourism, leisure sightseeing, visiting friends/family, cultural visits, and attending unpaid short-term events or recreational classes.

   • Prohibited: paid employment, business activities, long-term or award-bearing academic courses, religious/migrant residency, and overstaying.

4. Recent Policy & Process Updates (2025)

   • Japan now issues e-Visa approvals electronically via VFS, though physical submission of all documents at VFS centres or designated agencies remains mandatory.

   • Standard processing time is 4–5 working days after submission; apply well in advance to accommodate any additional checks or delays.

   • Only checklist-listed documents are accepted; missing or extraneous papers may result in refusal. There is enhanced scrutiny of financials, accommodation, and return intent.

   • Additional documentation is required for stays with a host or for minors.

   • Biometric collection is typically waived for tourist visas; verify requirements at submission time for any changes.

5. Application Workflow

   • Download, complete, and print the application form.

   • Assemble and organize all supporting documents according to the official checklist.

   • Schedule and attend an appointment at a VFS Japan Visa Application Centre; submit documents in person or via authorized courier if permitted.

   • Track application status online or via VFS; collect your passport with visa/e-Visa approval upon notification.

   • Verify visa details before finalizing travel bookings.

6. Role & Value of Professional Visa Service Providers (JKVTravel.com)

   • Agents pre-screen eligibility, recommend the correct visa category, and provide a tailored, current document checklist.

   • They review, format, and (if needed) translate documents to meet Japanese/VFS specifications and manage digital uploads and appointment bookings.

   • Professional support includes proactive status tracking, handling additional document requests, and advising on reapplication if required minimizing errors and reducing refusal risk.

   • By managing logistics and policy updates, agents streamline the process and allow clients to focus on their travel plans with less stress.

   • Disclaimer: All final visa decisions rest solely with Japanese immigration authorities. Expert assistance improves application quality and approval odds but cannot guarantee 100% success or expedited processing.