Beginning April 20, 2026, applicants for a Japan visa in Mumbai will shift to using VFS Global, which will entail higher fees, extended processing times, and eliminate direct submission at the Consulate.
Individuals seeking a Japan visa in Mumbai will be required to adhere to a revised procedure soon. As of April 20, 2026, visa applications will no longer be accepted directly at the Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai. Instead, applicants need to through VFS Global, which will oversee the application handling.
This modification aims to simplify the application process as the interest in traveling to Japan continues to increase.
Changes to Japan Visa Process Starting April 20, 2026
From this date forward, all visa requests initiated through the Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai will be administered by VFS Global.
Implications for travelers:
- The Consulate will cease direct acceptance of visa applications.
- All submissions must go through VFS Global.
- Inquiries regarding visas must be routed to VFS Global.
- Service fees from VFS will be in addition to visa charges.
This alteration pertains to all forms of Japan visas that are filed in Mumbai.
Walk-in Visa Applications Discontinued in Four Cities
Earlier this year, Japan made another significant alteration. Walk-in applications are now prohibited at Japan Visa Application Centers in these four cities, requiring applicants to secure an appointment beforehand.
- Chennai
- Hyderabad
- Kochi
- Puducherry
This modification seeks to handle increased demand and enhance appointment availability.
Japan Visa Fees for Indian Applicants
It is important to highlight that Japan has recently revised its visa fees for nationals from India. Below are the newly established charges. Payments will be accepted in cash only.
Japan Visa Fees Valid From April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027
| Type of Visa | Indian Nationals | Other Nationals |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry Visa | Rs. 500 | Rs. 1,750 |
| Multiple Entry Visa | Rs. 500 | Rs. 3,450 |
| Transit Visa | Rs. 50 | Rs. 400 |
| Re-entry Permit Extension | Rs. 1,750 | Rs. 1,750 |
Note: VFS Global service charges are separate.
Japan Visa Processing Duration
The processing time for a Japan Visa generally requires a minimum of 5 business days post-application submission.
Nonetheless, processing durations may extend due to escalated demand. Authorities have specified that applications will not be expedited, even with imminent travel dates.
The Consulate also will not address queries related to:
- Current application status
- Incomplete documents
- Justifications for visa denial
Applicants need to reach out to VFS Global for support.
Steps for Travelers to Take Now
If you are considering a trip to Japan from Mumbai post-April 20, 2026:
- File your visa request via VFS Global
- Apply well ahead of time to prevent any delays
- Ensure your documents are thoroughly prepared before submission
- Be ready for additional service fees
Japan continues to be a favored destination for leisure, business engagements, and cultural experiences. This update primarily alters the application process, rather than the eligibility to apply.
Concluding Remarks
The transition to VFS Global signifies the increasing interest in Japan visas from India. For travelers, the process remains uncomplicated as long as submissions are made early and all necessary documentation is in order.
If Japan features on your travel itinerary this year, be sure to plan ahead and allocate more time for processing.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
