Travellers applying for a Japan visa in Mumbai will soon need to follow a new process. Starting April 20, 2026, the Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai will no longer accept visa applications directly. Instead, applicants must submit their documents through VFS Global, which will manage the application process.

The change is part of an effort to streamline applications as demand for travel to Japan continues to grow.

Japan Visa Change From April 20, 2026

From this date, all visa applications handled by the Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai will be processed through VFS Global.

What this means for travellers:

• The Consulate will stop accepting direct visa applications.
• Applicants must submit their documents via VFS Global.
• All visa-related queries must also be directed to VFS Global.
• VFS service charges will apply in addition to visa fees.

This change affects all categories of Japan visas submitted in Mumbai.

Walk-in Visa Applications End in Four Cities

Earlier this year, Japan introduced another major change. Walk-in submissions are no longer allowed at Japan Visa Application Centres in the following cities, and applicants must book an appointment in advance.

• Chennai
• Hyderabad
• Kochi
• Puducherry

This change aims to manage high demand and improve appointment availability.

Japan Visa Fees for Applicants in India

It is worth noting that Japan recently updated its visa application fees for Indian nationals. Below are the updated visa fees. Payments are accepted in cash only.

Japan Fees Valid From April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027

Note: VFS Global service fees are charged separately.

Japan Visa Processing Time

Processing of a Japan Visa usually takes at least 5 working days after the application is submitted.

However, timelines may be longer due to high demand. Authorities have clarified that applications cannot be expedited, even if travel dates are close.

The Consulate also does not respond to queries related to:

• Application status
• Missing documents
• Reasons for visa refusal

Applicants must contact VFS Global for assistance.

What Travellers Should Do Now

If you plan to visit Japan from Mumbai after April 20, 2026:

• Submit your visa application through VFS Global
• Apply well in advance to avoid delays
• Prepare documents carefully before submission
• Expect additional service charges

Japan remains a popular destination for tourism, business trips, and cultural visits. This update mainly changes where you apply, not who can apply.

Final Thoughts

The shift to VFS Global reflects growing demand for Japan visas in India. For travellers, the process remains straightforward as long as applications are submitted early and documents are complete.

If Japan is on your travel list this year, plan ahead and allow extra time for processing.

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