Japan to end walk-in visa applications in four Indian cities from March 2
Japan visa applications in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Puducherry will soon require appointments. Starting March 2, 2026, the walk-in system ends. Applicants must book slots in advance. This change affects planning for travel to Japan. Visa fee...
By ET Online | Updated:
Agencies
Indians planning to visit Japan will no longer be able to submit visa applications without an appointment in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi and Puducherry from March 2, 2026. The change follows an announcement by VFS Global on February 21, 2026. Applicants in these cities must now book a prior appointment before visiting visa centres.
The move ends the walk-in system that many applicants had used for years.
What applicants must do
According to the Embassy of Japan in India, visa applications in India are submitted through VFS centres. The embassy handles diplomatic and official visas directly, along with cases requiring special humanitarian consideration.
The embassy has clarified that applicants must pay only the prescribed visa fee and VFS service charge. It has cautioned travellers against fraudulent calls or emails seeking additional payments to verify documents or expedite processing.
7 things to do in Tokyo with family
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Tokyo is a city where old-world charm meets modern wonders, offering experiences for every generation. From lantern-lit temples to neon skylines, Tokyo promises something for grandparents, kids, and teens alike. This guide takes you through a perfect family-friendly itinerary to explore the vibrant sights, culture, and flavours of the Japanese capital.
Tokyo is a city where old-world charm meets modern wonders, offering experiences for every generation. From lantern-lit temples to neon skylines, Tokyo promises something for grandparents, kids, and ..
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The Tokyo Skytree stands at 634 metres and offers sweeping views of the city from its observation decks. It is a popular stop for families as it combines sightseeing with easy access facilities. At its base, Tokyo Solamachi features more than 300 shops and restaurants, making it a convenient place for shopping, dining and rest breaks.
The Tokyo Skytree stands at 634 metres and offers sweeping views of the city from its observation decks. It is a popular stop for families as it combines sightseeing with easy access facilities. At i..
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Harajuku’s Takeshita Street is filled with colourful shops, street food and youth fashion, making it popular with younger visitors. Nearby, the Ninja Experience Café offers interactive activities for children. Omotesando, just a short walk away, provides a calmer contrast with stylish boutiques and modern architecture.
Harajuku’s Takeshita Street is filled with colourful shops, street food and youth fashion, making it popular with younger visitors. Nearby, the Ninja Experience Café offers interactive activities for..
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Small Worlds Miniature Museum allows visitors to explore detailed miniature cities and anime-inspired displays, appealing to both children and adults. Nearby, TeamLab Planets Tokyo offers immersive digital art experiences where visitors walk through interactive installations involving light, water and motion, creating a memorable family activity.
Small Worlds Miniature Museum allows visitors to explore detailed miniature cities and anime-inspired displays, appealing to both children and adults. Nearby, TeamLab Planets Tokyo offers immersive d..
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Shibuya is known for its busy scramble crossing and energetic atmosphere, which appeals especially to teenagers. Families can also visit themed cafés like Pepper PARLOR, where humanoid robots interact with guests. Akihabara, with its neon signs, anime stores and game centres, offers a fun introduction to Japan’s pop culture.
Shibuya is known for its busy scramble crossing and energetic atmosphere, which appeals especially to teenagers. Families can also visit themed cafés like Pepper PARLOR, where humanoid robots interac..
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Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most traditional neighbourhoods and home to the famous Kaminari-mon Gate and Senso-ji Temple. Families can walk along Nakamise Shopping Street, where small stalls sell local snacks and souvenirs. Visitors can also try wearing a kimono or enjoy a rickshaw ride, which adds a cultural touch to the experience.
Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most traditional neighbourhoods and home to the famous Kaminari-mon Gate and Senso-ji Temple. Families can walk along Nakamise Shopping Street, where small stalls sell local..
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Shimokitazawa is known for its relaxed atmosphere, vintage shops and independent cafés. Families can explore at a slower pace, browse unique stores and enjoy casual dining. It is a good place to experience a local neighbourhood away from major tourist crowds.
Shimokitazawa is known for its relaxed atmosphere, vintage shops and independent cafés. Families can explore at a slower pace, browse unique stores and enjoy casual dining. It is a good place to expe..
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Odaiba blends entertainment, shopping and scenic views along Tokyo Bay. Families can see the life-size Unicorn Gundam statue, which features light and transformation shows. The area also has large shopping complexes such as DiverCity and Aqua City, and offers pleasant evening views of the illuminated Rainbow Bridge.
Odaiba blends entertainment, shopping and scenic views along Tokyo Bay. Families can see the life-size Unicorn Gundam statue, which features light and transformation shows. The area also has large sh..
Visa processing generally takes five working days from the date of submission, though timelines may vary depending on application volume. The embassy does not entertain enquiries regarding application status or reasons for refusal.
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Fees and planning requirements
For the period from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, the visa fee is ₹450 for single or multiple-entry visas and ₹50 for transit visas, apart from the VFS service fee.
Applicants can submit visa applications up to three months before their intended travel date. With the appointment system now mandatory in the four south Indian cities, travellers will need to factor in advance booking of slots while planning their trips.
Japan introduced its eVISA system in India from April 1, 2024, offering an online option for eligible short-term travel categories.