Applications for Japan visas in Mumbai will move to VFS Global on April 20, 2026.
Beginning on April 20, 2026, Mumbai will use VFS Global for Japan visa applications; there will be no direct submissions to the Consulate, new costs, and lengthier deadlines.
Travelers will soon have to go through a new procedure when applying for a Japan visa in Mumbai. The Japanese Consulate-General in Mumbai will no longer directly accept visa applications as of April 20, 2026. Rather, candidates must use VFS Global, which will oversee the application process, to submit their paperwork.
As demand for travel to Japan continues to rise, the adjustment is part of an effort to simplify applications.
Japan Visa Modification Effective April 20, 2026
As of this date, VFS Global will manage all visa applications handled by the Japanese Consulate-General in Mumbai.
What this implies for travelers:
Direct visa applications will no longer be accepted by the Consulate.
Candidates must use VFS Global to submit their paperwork.
Additionally, VFS Global must be contacted with any questions pertaining to visas.
In addition to the visa payments, there will be VFS service charges.
All kinds of Japan visas filed in Mumbai are impacted by this modification.
Applications for Walk-in Visas End in Four Cities
Japan made yet another significant adjustment earlier this year. The following cities' Japan Visa Application Centers no longer accept walk-in submissions; instead, candidates must schedule an appointment in advance.
Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Puducherry
The goal of this modification is to better manage the high demand and increase the availability of appointments.
Japan Visa Fees for Indian Applicants
It is important to note that Japan has changed the costs associated with Indian nationals applying for visas. The latest visa fees are listed below. Only cash payments are accepted.
Fees for Japan are valid from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027.
Indian nationals and other nationals can apply for a single entry visa for Rs. 500 or Rs. 1,750.
Visa for Multiple Entry: Rs. 500 Rs. 3,450
Visa for transit: Rs. 50 Rs. 400
Extension of Re-entry Permit: Rs. 1,750
Note: There are additional fees for VFS Global services.
Processing Time for Japan Visas
After the application is submitted, the processing of a Japan visa typically takes at least five working days.
However, because of the great demand, timescales can be lengthier. Even if travel dates are near, authorities have made it clear that applications cannot be accelerated.
Additionally, the Consulate does not answer questions about:
Status of the application
Absence of papers
Reasons for denial of a visa
For assistance, applicants must get in touch with VFS Global.
What Travelers Should Do If After April 20, 2026, you intend to travel from Mumbai to Japan:
Use VFS Global to submit your visa application.
To prevent delays, apply well in advance.
Before submitting, thoroughly prepare the paperwork.
Be prepared for extra service fees.
Japan is still a well-liked travel destination for business, leisure, and cultural excursions. This update primarily modifies the application location rather than the applicant pool.
Concluding Remarks
The switch to VFS Global is indicative of India's increasing need for Japan visas. As long as applications are filed in advance and all necessary paperwork is presented, the procedure is still simple for travelers.
Plan early and give yourself extra time for processing if you want to visit Japan this year.
