As of February 2026, Japan is not visa-free for Indian ordinary passport holders. Indian citizens are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Japan for tourism, business, or transit. However, the process has become more streamlined with the widespread adoption of the e-Visa system, which allows eligible Indian travelers to apply online for a single-entry tourist visa. In early 2026, a major procedural change was implemented: walk-in applications are no longer accepted in cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Puducherry; instead, applicants must secure an online appointment through VFS Global. The standard visa fee is relatively low (approximately ₹450 for a single entry), but service charges and courier fees apply. For frequent travelers, multiple-entry visas are available but require proof of substantial financial means or previous travel history to Japan. While not "visa-free," the electronic system typically processes applications within 4 to 10 working days, making it one of the more accessible developed-nation visas for Indians.