Japan Keeps Visa Fee at Just ₹500 for Indian Travellers Despite Global Fee Hike
Good news for Indian travellers planning a holiday to Japan. While Japan has introduced a significant increase in visa fees for most foreign nationals from 1 July 2026, Indian passport holders will continue to enjoy a concessional visa fee of just ₹500 for both single-entry and multiple-entry visas. This special arrangement makes Japan one of the most affordable international destinations for Indian tourists.
What Has Changed?
The Japanese government has revised its visa fee structure for the first time in nearly five decades. For many nationalities, the cost of obtaining a Japanese visa has increased substantially, with single-entry visas rising from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000 and multiple-entry visas from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000. The revision reflects higher administrative costs and inflation.
However, Indian citizens are exempt from this global fee hike under an existing bilateral arrangement between India and Japan.
Visa Fee for Indians Remains Unchanged
As confirmed by the Embassy of Japan in India, Indian nationals will continue to pay:
- Single Entry Visa: ₹500
- Multiple Entry Visa: ₹500
- Transit Visa: ₹50
Applicants should note that VFS Global service charges are applicable separately.
Who Can Apply?
Indian passport holders travelling to Japan for various purposes can apply, including:
- Tourism
- Business visits
- Visiting family or friends
- Conferences and events
- Cultural and educational exchanges
The type of visa granted depends on the purpose of travel and supporting documentation submitted.
How to Apply for a Japan Visa
The application process is straightforward:
- Complete the visa application form.
- Arrange the required documents, including a valid passport, photographs, travel itinerary, financial documents, and supporting papers based on the purpose of travel.
- Submit the application through the authorised VFS Global Japan Visa Application Centre or the Embassy/Consulate where applicable.
- Pay the applicable visa fee and VFS service charges.
- Await processing before collecting your passport.
Applicants are advised to verify the latest documentation requirements before submitting their application, as they may vary depending on the visa category.
A Big Advantage for Indian Travellers
With international travel costs increasing globally, retaining the ₹500 visa fee gives Indian travellers a significant cost advantage. Combined with Japan’s efficient transport network, rich cultural heritage, cherry blossom season, world-famous cuisine, and growing popularity among Indian tourists, the country remains one of the most attractive long-haul destinations in Asia.
For travel agents and tour operators, this is also an excellent opportunity to promote Japan holiday packages, as the low visa cost reduces the overall travel budget and makes the destination more accessible to Indian families, honeymooners, and group travellers.
Final Thoughts
Despite Japan’s worldwide visa fee revision, Indian travellers continue to benefit from one of the lowest Japanese visa fees in the world. If Japan has been on your travel bucket list, now is an excellent time to plan your trip without worrying about increased visa costs.
