Japan Visa: VFS Global Starts Accepting Normal Visa Application Effective October 11

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan informed us about the resumption of normal visa arrangements, which were temporarily suspended due to the border measures, is now resumed at 0:00 am (JST) on October 11, 2022.

Along with normal visa operations, the country has lifted the suspension of visa validity, which means that visas issued prior to December 2, 2021, are no longer suspended as of 0:00 am (JST) on October 11, 2022.

Those who have a valid visa can travel after 0:00 a.m. (JST) on October 11, 2022, as long as the visa is valid.

Resumption of Normal Visa Services

Sharing the information about the resumption of normal visa service, the Japan Consulate in Chennai said; “Just to inform you that from 11th October 2022 individual tourist & all other visa short-term categories are open (like before the pandemic). The ERFS certificate too is no longer required from 11th October 2022. All valid multiple entry visas issued before the pandemic which were suspended are now good for travel from 11th October 2022.”

The consulate further added that, From October 11th, the invitation letter with pledge and confirmation letter from the applicant and receiving organisation for students and technical intern trainees are also abolished.

Now only COEs which expired have to submit a declaration form, this is valid till 31st October if it is continued or abolished, the consulate will send you an email.

ERFS is No Longer Required

Japan Short-Term Stay: The Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System (ERFS) will no longer be required for new entry of foreign nationals into Japan for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that do not include remunerative activities.

At the same time, foreign nationals enter into Japan for a short-term stay for tourism will be no longer limited under package tours.

Documents Required for Japan Visa

Those wishing to apply for a Japan visa must submit the following documents. Please keep in mind that the VFS Global/Consulate will only accept photocopies in A4 size.

• A valid Passport (with more than two blank pages) Please submit your old passports also. if any
• Photocopy of the Bio Data Page of the Current Passport (First and Last Page)
• A completely filled and signed Visa Application Form.
• Covering letter stating the purpose of the visit and day-to-day details
• One photograph was taken within the last 6 months. (The photograph should be of size 2 x 2 inches. colour with white background and printed on good-quality paper)
• Hotel bookings and schedule itinerary day-wise
• Reservation certificate
• Latest Income Tax Return
• If the applicant is Student/Dependent
  • Consent from the parents/spouse
  • Latest Income Tax Return for parents/spouse (in case of income tax is not available then submit bank statement of last 6 months)
  • Proof of Relationship, in case the applicant is accompanied by any dependent, I e. Passport copy. Marriage Certificate, Birth Certificate.