Japan Visitor Visa
The Japan Visitor Visa for visiting friends or relatives falls under Japan’s Temporary Visitor category and allows a stay of up to 90 days for private, non-remunerative visits. It is designed for travellers whose primary purpose is to see family members or friends residing in Japan, rather than tourism or business. Applicants generally need their host in Japan to prepare a Letter of Reason for Invitation clearly explaining the relationship and purpose of the visit, along with documents proving kinship, friendship, or acquaintance, such as a Family Register Certificate (Kosekitohon) for relatives. As with all Temporary Visitor visas, holders cannot engage in any income-earning activity in Japan, and final approval is decided solely by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) and immigration authorities.
Eligibility
To apply for a Japan Visitor Visa to see friends or relatives, applicants generally must:
- Have a genuine private or family reason for visiting, not exceeding 90 days
- Provide a Letter of Reason for Invitation from the host in Japan, describing the relationship and purpose of the visit in detail (vague descriptions such as simply “visiting friends” are not accepted)
- Provide documents proving the relationship, such as a Family Register Certificate (Kosekitohon), birth certificate, or marriage certificate for relatives
- Show proof of sufficient funds to cover the trip, or evidence of the host’s financial capacity if the host is covering expenses
- Provide a detailed schedule of stay in Japan, including planned activities and accommodation details
- Not intend to engage in any remunerative activity in Japan
If the host in Japan is paying the applicant’s travel expenses and the applicant is a national of China, Russia, a CIS country, or Georgia, a Letter of Guarantee, the guarantor’s Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo), and proof of the guarantor’s financial capacity are also required.
Government Visa Fees
Fee Component | Approximate Cost |
| Single-entry visa (from 1 July 2026) | Approximately JPY 15,000 |
| Double or multiple-entry visa (from 1 July 2026) | Approximately JPY 30,000 |
| Approximate INR Equivalent* | Check official Fee Finder |
*Fees are paid in the local currency of the country where the Japanese Embassy or Consulate-General is located. No fee is charged if the visa is not issued, and fees may differ depending on nationality and purpose of visit. Information may vary depending on the visa category and individual circumstances — always confirm exact Japan Visa Fees on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website.
Japan Visa Processing Time
Japan Visa Processing Time for the Visitor Visa (friends and relatives) is generally around one week from the day after a complete application is accepted. Processing can take considerably longer if the Embassy or Consulate-General requires additional confirmation, such as further documents proving the relationship, an interview with the applicant, or consultation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo. Because relationship evidence and the host’s supporting documents are central to this visa category, incomplete or unclear documentation is a common cause of delays. Applicants are advised to apply well ahead of their intended travel date and ensure their host prepares all required documents thoroughly.
Required Documents Checklist
No physical documents are uploaded; the SGAC is a declaration form completed directly online or in the MyICA app.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
Applying for a Japan Visitor Visa requires accurate documentation, a genuine purpose of visit, and compliance with the visa requirements prescribed by the Japanese authorities. At Shivansh Consultants, we provide personalized guidance and end-to-end support, assisting you with visa application forms, invitation documents (where applicable), financial evidence, travel insurance, accommodation details, and all required supporting documentation. Our experienced consultants carefully review your application to help minimize errors and delays while ensuring your documents are complete and meet the applicable visa requirements. We are committed to delivering transparent, reliable, and client-focused assistance throughout your Japan Visitor Visa application process. While the final decision on visa approval rests solely with the Japanese immigration authorities, our goal is to help you submit a complete, accurate, and well-prepared Visitor Visa application with confidence.