What are the Necessary Requirements and Fees for Visa of Japan?

Whether you’re dreaming of cherry blossom season in Kyoto, exploring futuristic Tokyo, studying in a top Japanese university, attending a business summit, or starting a new job in Japan — understanding the visa process is the first step in making your journey smooth and stress-free.

 

Japan is known for its hospitality, rich culture, technological innovation, and clean cities. However, entering the country isn’t just about booking a flight — you’ll need to secure the right type of visa based on the purpose and duration of your stay.

 

In this blog, we’ll guide you through:

  • The various types of Japanese visas(tourism, business, work, student, and more),
  • The documents you’ll needto prepare,
  • Step-by-step on how to apply,
  • And the feesinvolved in the process.

 

Whether you’re visiting for a few weeks or planning a long-term stay, this guide will help you:

  • Avoid common application mistakes,
  • Understand your legal requirements,
  • And ensure you get your visa without unnecessary delays

 

Table of Contents

  • Types of Japanese Visas
  • General Requirements
  • Visa-Specific Requirements
  • Application Process
  • Additional Tips
  • Useful Resources

Types of Japanese Visas

Multiple types of Japan visas depending on the purpose of your visit:

  1. Short-Term Stay Visas (Tourism/Business)
  • Duration: Up to 90 days
  • For tourism, visiting friends/relatives, business meetings
  1. Work Visas
  • Categories include Engineer, Skilled Labor, Instructor, Intra-Company Transferee, etc.
  • Duration: 1 to 5 years
  1. Student Visas
  • For full-time academic study or vocational training
  • Usually valid for 6 months to 4 years
  1. Spouse/Dependent Visas
  • For family members of Japanese citizens or residents
  1. Transit Visas
  • For travelers passing through Japan to another country

General Requirements

While the specifics can vary, most visa types require the following:

  • Valid passport
  • Completed visa application form
  • Passport-sized photograph(taken within the last 6 months)
  • Proof of travel arrangements(e.g., flight itinerary, accommodation)
  • Financial documents(e.g., bank statements, income proof)
  • Invitation letter(if applicable)

Visa-Specific Requirements

Tourism Visa

  • Daily itinerary in Japan
  • Hotel reservations
  • Proof of sufficient funds

Business Visa

  • Letter from your employer and host company in Japan
  • Detailed travel schedule

Student Visa

  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the Japanese school
  • Letter of admission
  • Academic records

Work Visa

  • COE issued by the employer in Japan
  • Detailed employment contract

Application Process

  • Check if you need a visa: Citizens of over 70 countries can enter Japan visa-free for short stays.
  • Prepare documents: Gather all required documents and photographs.
  • Submit at the embassy/consulate: Apply in person or through a designated visa agency.
  • Wait for processing: Usually takes 5–10 working days.
  • Collect your visa: Once approved, it will be stamped into your passport.

Additional Tips

  • Apply early: Submit your application at least 1 month before travel.
  • Use a visa agent: For complex cases or time-sensitive applications.
  • Check embassy websites: Requirements may differ slightly by country.
  • Don’t overstay: Japan has strict penalties for visa overstays.

Japan Visa Fees Table – 2025 (Approx. in INR)

Visa Type

Approx. Fee (in INR)

Notes

Single-entry Visa

₹1

Valid for one entry, up to 90 days

Multiple-entry Visa

₹3,480

For frequent travellers (tourism/business)

Transit Visa

₹406

For airport transit or short stopovers

Work Visa

₹1,740 – ₹3,480

Requires Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Student Visa

₹1,740

Requires COE from Japanese institution

Spouse/Dependent Visa

₹1,740 – ₹3,480

COE required from sponsoring family member

Temporary Visitor Visa

₹1,740

Includes tourism and short business stays

 Note:

  • These fees are per applicant.
  • Fees are non-refundable.
  • Payment is made at VFS Global or Japanese consulates during the application process.
  • Fees may slightly differ at different embassies based on administrative charges or exchange rate fluctuations.

Final Thoughts

Japan is known for its efficiency and precision—and that extends to its visa process. By ensuring you meet all the requirements and submit accurate documents, you can enjoy a smooth entry into the Land of the Rising Sun.

What are the Necessary Requirements and Fees for Visa of Japan?

What documents are required to apply for a Japan visa?

Generally, the following documents are required:

  • Valid passport
  • Completed visa application form
  • Passport-size photograph (recent)
  • Proof of travel itinerary (e.g., flight and hotel bookings)
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements or income proof)
  • Invitation letter (if applicable)

Additional documents may be needed based on visa type (e.g., Certificate of Eligibility for work or study).

What is the visa fee for Japan in 2025?

As of 2025, standard visa fees are:

  • Single-entry visa: ¥3,000 (~$20 USD)
  • Multiple-entry visa: ¥6,000 (~$40 USD)
  • Transit visa: ¥700 (~$5 USD)

Fees may vary slightly based on your nationality and local embassy policies.

Are visa fees refundable if my application is denied?

No. Visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.

How much money should I show for a Japan visa?

There is no fixed amount, but for a short-term tourist visa, it is generally advised to show:

  • ¥200,000–¥500,000 (approximately $1,500–$3,500 USD) for a two-week stay.
    Financial documents should clearly demonstrate your ability to support yourself during your visit.
Do I need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?

A COE is required for:

  • Work visas
  • Student visas
  • Long-term stay visas
    It must be obtained by your sponsor in Japan before you apply for the visa.
Can I pay the visa fee in my local currency?

Yes, most Japanese embassies accept fees in the local currency equivalent. Always confirm the current exchange rate and accepted payment methods (cash, bank draft, etc.) with your local embassy.

Is a visa required for short-term travel to Japan?

Citizens from over 70 countries (including the U.S., Canada, UK, EU, Australia, etc.) do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism or business. Check the Visa Exemption List.

How long is a Japanese visa valid after issuance?
  • Short-term visas are usually valid for 3 months from the date of issue.
  • Long-term visas (work, study) depend on the duration specified in the Certificate of Eligibility.
Where can I apply and pay the visa fee?
  • You can apply at:
  • The Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country
  • Or through an authorized visa processing agency
    Fees are typically paid at the time of application.
Is there a fee for a child visa?

Yes, children typically pay the same visa fee as adults, unless specified otherwise by the local embassy. Always verify with your local consulate