Japan Introduces e-Visa Program for Indian Travelers
In a significant move to streamline the travel process, Japan has initiated an e-Visa program starting April 1, specifically designed for Indian passport holders. The innovative approach marks a departure from the conventional physical visa sticker, as travelers can now apply for and receive visas electronically through Japan Visa Application Centres managed by VFS Global. The program, tailored for visitors intending to stay up to 90 days for tourism, ensures a hassle-free entry into Japan, thereby enhancing the travel experience.
Under the new system, while the application submission remains at the VFS Global-managed Visa Application Centres, the notable transformation lies in the visa issuance process. Successful applicants will no longer receive physical visa stickers. Instead, an electronic visa will be issued, which travelers are required to present on their mobile devices as a ‘visa issuance notice’ upon arrival. It’s imperative to note that only the digital visa notice is valid for entry, excluding PDFs, photos, screenshots, or printed copies.
The eligibility for this e-Visa program extends beyond Indian citizens to include residents from a host of countries like Brazil, Taiwan, Singapore, and the United States, among others. Applicants are advised to follow a straightforward application process starting with an online application form submission at the official VFS Global website. The subsequent steps involve scheduling an appointment, submitting the necessary documents, and finally, receiving an electronic visa issuance notice. This progressive measure by Japan aims to facilitate smoother and more efficient travel for international visitors.
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