Japan Tourist Visa for Indians 2026: City-Wise Rules You Must Know

 

Japan Tourist Visa for Indians: City-Wise Rules Explained

Japan is currently one of the top international travel destinations for Indian tourists. But while the Japan tourist visa process looks simple on paper, the reality is very different.

The biggest mistake most applicants make is assuming the visa process is the same across India. It is not.

Your Japan visa requirements change based on where you live, not where your passport was issued. This single misunderstanding leads to rejections, returned files, and unnecessary delays.

This guide is your one-stop solution to understand the Japan tourist visa process for Indians, including jurisdiction rules, region-wise document differences, and common myths that cause rejections.

Why Most Japan Visa Applications Get Rejected

Most rejections or application issues happen due to:

• Applying at the wrong VFS center

• Submitting incorrect financial documents

• Misunderstanding flight ticket requirements

• Ignoring region-specific checklists

Understanding these differences can dramatically improve your approval chances.

Jurisdiction Rules: The Most Important Japan Visa Requirement

Apply Based on Where You Live, Not Passport Issue City

This is the golden rule of the Japan visa process.

You must apply at the VFS center based on your current place of residence, not where your passport was issued.

Example:
If your passport was issued in Kolkata but you currently live in Bangalore, you must apply at VFS Bangalore.

Along with your application, you must submit local residence proof, such as:

• Rent agreement

• Electricity or utility bill

Ignoring this rule can result in your application not being accepted at the counter itself.

What’s New in the Japan Visa Process for Indians

Application Timeline

You can now apply for a Japan tourist visa up to 89 days before your intended travel date.

Processing Time

The minimum processing time is 5 working days.
However, this may vary depending on:

• The consulate handling your application

• Seasonal workload and holidays

Document Format Rules You Should Not Ignore

All photocopies must be submitted on A4 size paper.

This rule is strictly enforced, especially in Delhi and Mumbai.
Incorrect paper size can cause your file to be returned or delayed.

Confirmed vs Flight Reservations: City-Wise Difference

This is one of the most confusing parts of the Japan visa process.

Cities That Say “Do NOT Buy Tickets”

• Chennai

• Kolkata

These VFS centers clearly advise applicants not to purchase confirmed flight tickets before visa approval.

Cities That May Ask for Confirmed Tickets

• Mumbai

Mumbai may ask for confirmed bookings, which creates confusion because other regions explicitly warn against it.

This difference alone causes many applicants to submit the wrong documents. Book Flight reservations here

Region-Wise Documentation Differences Explained

While the basic requirements remain similar, each VFS region has its own documentation personality.

Bank Statement Requirements

• Delhi & Kolkata: 6 months bank statement

• Mumbai, Chennai & Bangalore: 3 months bank statement

Same visa category, but different financial expectations.

ITR (Income Tax Return) Requirements

This is where many applicants get rejected.

• Chennai & Kolkata: 3 years of ITR mandatory

• Bangalore: 2 years of ITR required

• Mumbai & Delhi: Primary focus on the latest ITR

Submitting fewer ITRs than required for your region can weaken your application.

Professional Documents: Bangalore-Specific Rule

Bangalore VFS has additional requirements for certain professionals:

• Doctors must submit a KMC certificate

• Lawyers must submit a Bar Council card

These documents are not explicitly demanded in other regions.

Mumbai’s Unique Travel History Requirement

Mumbai’s checklist uniquely asks for two-year travel history to countries such as:

• USA

• Canada

• Europe

• Australia

• Japan

No other VFS region clearly demands this information in the same way.
This is not mandatory, but strongly recommended if applicable.

Local Residence Proof: Strict Cities

• Kolkata and Bangalore are very strict

If your passport was issued outside West Bengal or Karnataka, you must submit:

• Rent agreement, or

• Utility bill

No valid local address proof can lead to application issues.

Common Myths That Cause Japan Visa Rejections

• Japan visa rules are the same across India

• Dummy tickets are accepted everywhere

• One year of ITR works for all cities

• Passport issue city decides your VFS location

All of these assumptions are incorrect and frequently lead to rejection or resubmission. Also Read: How to write a cover letter for Japan Visa