Here’s How to Apply for Japan’s New E-Visa Programme for Indian Tourists

X: @the_news_21

Japan has ushered in a new era of convenience for tourists with the launch of its e-Visa programme, offering seamless travel opportunities for visitors from several countries, including India. Effective from April 1, this initiative aims to simplify the visa acquisition process, particularly for short-term travelers arriving in Japan by air and holding ordinary passports.

Under the new e-Visa programme, Indian tourists, along with visitors from Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States, can now bid farewell to the hassles of carrying physical passports for their Japan trips.

Operated by VFS Global, the Japan e-Visa programme allows travelers to apply for their visas electronically, eliminating the need for physical passport stickers. Applicants can avail of this streamlined process by following a few straightforward steps:

1. Access the Official Website: To kick-start the application process, individuals must visit the official website of the Japan Visa Application Centre managed by VFS Global via https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/jpn/.
2. Select Visa Type and Requirements: Choose the “Temporary Visitor Visa” option and carefully review all requirements. Download and accurately fill out the application form before printing it. Ensure all necessary documents are provided.
3. Schedule Appointment: Book an appointment to submit the application at the Visa Application Centre. Upon booking, applicants will receive an appointment confirmation email along with their letter of appointment.
4. Pay Application Fee: After submitting the visa application form at the centre, applicants are required to pay the application fee. Subsequently, they await an email notification indicating when the e-Visa is ready for collection.
5. Receive E-Visa: Approved applicants will receive their e-Visa electronically, replacing the traditional physical visa. Applicants can track their visa application status online using the reference number provided by the centre.
6. Present Visa Issuance Notice: During airport check-in, travelers must display a “visa issuance notice” from their mobile devices, which can be in printed or PDF format. The notice contains a two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned for verification.

It’s essential to note that applicants may be required to appear in person at the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over their place of residence for an interview during the application process.

By adhering to these steps and meeting the necessary criteria, Indian tourists can enjoy a seamless travel experience to Japan on a tourist e-Visa, valid for up to 90 days. With the introduction of this user-friendly e-Visa programme, Japan reaffirms its commitment to welcoming visitors from around the world with open arms.

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