Japan for work has become increasingly popular among Indian professionals, from engineers and IT specialists to SSW (Specified Skilled Worker) applicants and skilled laborers. Before starting this journey, one key question arises: What is the Japan work visa cost for Indian citizens?
The official fee for a Japan work visa is quite affordable, at approximately ₹500 for a single-entry or multiple-entry long-term visa. However, applications must be submitted via VFS Global, which charges an additional ₹1,300 for processing. This brings the total Japan work visa cost for Indian applicants to around ₹1,800–₹2,000, depending on updated service charges.
Beyond the official fees, there are other expenses to consider, including document translation, notarization, medical examinations, travel, and preparation costs. This guide breaks down every possible expense in simple terms, helping Indian professionals plan their move to Japan efficiently while avoiding surprises.
Why Indians Are Choosing Japan for Work
Japan is one of the safest, most stable, and opportunity-rich countries in the world. The country faces a growing labor shortage and is actively hiring foreign workers, including talent from India. Whether you apply for the Engineer visa, SSW visa, Skilled Labor visa, or other employment categories, Japan offers excellent career growth, job stability, skill-based roles, and long-term residency pathways. SSW Exam Schedule
But before preparing your documents, it is essential to understand the Japan work visa cost for Indian applicants, including every fee involved in the process. This guide simplifies the cost details so you can plan your budget accurately.
Japan Work Visa Cost for Indian
The official government fee for a Japan work visa is relatively low; however, the overall cost increases when you include additional service charges, document preparation, translation, notarization, medical examinations, and other related expenses. These combined fees make the total expenditure significantly higher than the base government fee. Application and Visa Process to Study in Japan
1. Japan Embassy/Consulate Fee (Government Fee)
The Japan Embassy or Consulate charges a standard fee of approximately ₹500 for long-term work visas, applicable to Engineer, SSW, Skilled Labor, and other employment categories.
- Cost: ₹500
- Applicable For:
- Japan Work Visa
- Engineer/Specialist Visa
- SSW Visa
- Skilled Labor Visa
- Long-term employment categories
This is the fixed fee for long-term work visas, regardless of city.
2. VFS Global Service Fee (Mandatory)
In India, all Japan visa applications must be submitted through VFS Global, which handles document verification, appointment scheduling, and passport processing services.
- Service Fee: ~₹1,300
- Services Included:
- Application submission
- Document checking
- Passport handling
- Appointment support
Total Basic Cost:
₹1,800 – ₹2,000
This is the amount every Indian applicant must pay.
Additional Costs You Must Consider
These additional expenses, which include medical examinations, document translation, notarization, travel to VFS centers, and service charges, often increase the total cost significantly, making it much higher than the basic government fee for obtaining a Japan work visa from India. SSW Visa Japan
3. Japan Visa Medical Exam Cost
Some job categories, especially SSW, require medical clearance.
- Cost Range: ₹1,500 – ₹4,500
- Includes:
- Chest X-ray
- Blood tests
- Eye and hearing tests
- Doctor evaluation
4. Translation & Notarization Charges
Many Japanese employers and immigration authorities require documents in the Japanese language.
Translation Charges:
- ₹300 – ₹900 per page
Notarization Charges:
- ₹150 – ₹400 per page
Total cost may reach ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 depending on the number of documents.
5. Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Processing Costs
COE is issued by your employer in Japan.
Some employers may require courier charges or translation support.
- Estimated Additional Cost: ₹500 – ₹1,000
6. Travel Costs for Visa Submission
If your city does not have a Japan VFS center, travel cost applies.
- Train/Bus: ₹300 – ₹1,500
- Flight (optional): ₹4,000 – ₹7,000
7. Work Permit and Local Processing Costs After Arrival
Once you reach Japan, you may spend on:
- Photos for residency card
- Local transport
- Initial documentation
Estimated Cost: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000
8. Japan Long-Term Work Visa Renewal Fee (2026 and beyond)
- Renewal Fee in Japan: ¥4,000 – ¥6,000
(Approximately ₹2,200 – ₹3,300)
Japan Work Visa Cost India (City-wise)
The Japan work visa cost for Indian applicants includes the embassy fee of ₹500, VFS service charge of ₹1,300, and additional expenses for translation, medical exams, and documentation.
Delhi – Japan VFS
- Embassy Fee: ₹500
- VFS Fee: ₹1,300
- Total: ₹1,800
Mumbai / Chennai / Bengaluru
Same structure with minor variations due to taxes.
Types of Japan Work Visas and Their Fees
Japan offers several types of work visas for Indian applicants, each with specific eligibility and costs. Common categories include Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Specified Skilled Worker (SSW), Skilled Labor, Instructor, and Intra-Company Transferee visas. Fees typically range from ₹1,800 to ₹2,500, depending on the visa type, required documents, and additional service charges. Japan Work Visa
Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services Visa
Used by IT professionals, designers, engineers, etc.
Cost: ₹1,800 – ₹2,000
SSW Visa Fee Japan India
For caregivers, food service, construction, agriculture, etc.
Cost: ₹1,800 – ₹2,500
Skilled Labor Visa
For chefs, carpenters, welders, etc.
Cost: ₹1,800 – ₹2,500
Intra-Company Transferee Visa
Company-sponsored transfers.
Cost: ₹1,800 – ₹2,000
Hidden Charges Applicants Often Forget
Many applicants often forget to account for additional expenses when applying for a Japan work visa, including costs for translation, notarization, medical examinations, travel to VFS centers, passport photos, and document printing. Japan Visa Assistance for Students
- Translation and notarization
- Medical exam
- Travel to VFS
- Passport-size photographs
- Courier charges
- Document printing
These can increase the total cost to ₹4,000 – ₹7,000.
Cost to Move to Japan From India
In addition to the visa fee, relocating to Japan involves several moving expenses, including flight tickets, extra luggage, initial accommodation, local transportation, and food for the first week.
- Flight Ticket: ₹25,000 – ₹45,000
- Extra luggage: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000
- Initial accommodation: ¥3,000 – ¥5,000 per day
- Food for the first week: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000
Total relocation cost: ₹35,000 – ₹70,000
Step-by-Step Process and Cost Explanation
A step-by-step explanation of the Japan work visa process, including each stage’s procedures, required documents, and associated costs for Indian applicants. SSW Visa Requirements
Step 1: Secure a job offer in Japan
No cost.
Step 2: Employer applies for COE
Generally no cost for the applicant.
Step 3: Prepare documents
Translation and notarization: ₹1,000 – ₹5,000
Step 4: Submit application at VFS Global
- VFS Fee: ₹1,300
- Embassy Fee: ₹500
Step 5: Wait for processing
Takes about 5–10 working days.
Why Japan Work Visa Fees Are Affordable
Japan keeps its visa fees low to encourage skilled workers, simplify immigration, and support industries facing workforce shortages. This is why the Japan visa fees for Indians 2025 remain only ₹500 officially. SSW Japan Visa
Final Summary Japan Work Visa Cost for Indian
The Japan work visa for Indian applicants involves multiple costs beyond the official government fee. These include the embassy or consulate fee, VFS Global service charges, medical examinations, document translation and notarization, travel to application centers, and other miscellaneous expenses. Considering all these factors helps applicants accurately budget for the total cost of obtaining the visa.
| Fee Type | Cost (INR) |
| Embassy Fee | ₹500 |
| VFS Global Service Fee | ₹1,300 |
| Total Basic Cost | ₹1,800 – ₹2,000 |
| Medical Exam | ₹1,500 – ₹4,500 |
| Translation & Notarization | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Travel & Miscellaneous | ₹300 – ₹1,500 |
Total typical expense for Indian applicants:
₹3,000 – ₹7,000
FAQ Japan Work Visa Cost for Indians
- How much does a Japan work visa cost for Indian citizens?
The official government fee for a Japan work visa is approximately ₹500 for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. However, Indian applicants must submit their applications through VFS Global, which charges an additional service fee of around ₹1,300. When you add costs for optional services like document translation, notarization, and medical exams, the total expense can range from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000. This makes Japan work visas relatively affordable compared to other countries, but it is important to budget for the extra services to avoid unexpected costs. - What are the different types of Japan work visas for Indians?
Japan offers several work visa categories for Indian nationals depending on the profession and skills. The most common types include:
- Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (SSW) – for IT professionals, engineers, designers, marketing specialists, and other skilled professionals.
- Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa – for caregivers, construction workers, food industry professionals, and other skill-based jobs.
- Skilled Labor Visa – for specific trades like chefs, carpenters, welders, or other technical work.
- Instructor Visa – for teaching positions in schools or institutions.
- Intra-company Transferee Visa – for employees transferred within a company from India to a Japanese branch.
- Highly Skilled Professional Visa – for highly qualified individuals with advanced skills, usually linked to higher salary or preferential immigration benefits.
Each visa type may have slightly different requirements and fees, so it’s important to confirm with your employer or the Japanese Embassy.
- Are there additional fees besides the application fee?
Yes, the government fee is just one part of the total cost. Additional expenses may include:
- Medical Examination Fees: Some visa categories require a medical check-up to ensure fitness for work. Costs typically range from ₹1,500 to ₹4,500.
- Document Translation and Notarization: Japanese immigration may require certificates, degrees, and other documents translated into Japanese and notarized. Fees can vary from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 depending on the number of pages.
- Travel Costs: Traveling to the VFS center or embassy for submitting documents may incur transportation costs.
- Agency or Consultant Fees: If you choose to use a visa consultant or agent, they may charge extra service fees.
It’s essential to budget for these expenses so you can plan your application smoothly.
- How long is a Japan work visa valid?
The validity of a work visa depends on the type of visa and your employment contract:
- 1-year visa: Common for initial work contracts or short-term skilled workers.
- 3-year visa: Typically issued for mid-term employment contracts.
- 5-year visa: Often granted for long-term or highly skilled professionals with stable employment.
Visa extensions or renewals are possible before expiry, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria and employment requirements.
- Can I apply directly or through an agent?
Indian citizens can apply for a Japan work visa either directly at the Japanese Embassy/Consulate or through authorized VFS centers. Using a VFS center is mandatory in most cities for submission and document handling. While you can submit the application yourself, some applicants prefer hiring a visa agent or consultant to ensure that forms, translations, and documents are correctly completed. Keep in mind that agents will add additional service charges, which can increase the overall cost. - What documents are required for a Japan work visa?
The key documents for a Japan work visa include:
- Valid passport with at least six months of validity
- Visa application form completed and signed
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the Japanese immigration office (usually arranged by the employer)
- Employment contract or offer letter from the Japanese company
- Educational certificates (degree, diploma, professional qualifications)
- Work experience documents, such as recommendation letters or reference letters
Additional documents may be requested depending on your visa type. Some documents must be translated into Japanese and notarized.
- Is a medical exam required for a Japan work visa?
Certain work visas, especially SSW or skilled labor categories, require a medical certificate to confirm that you are physically fit to work in Japan. The medical check usually includes a general physical examination, blood tests, chest X-ray, and eye test. Fees typically range from ₹1,500 to ₹4,500. If your visa category does not require a medical exam, this cost can be skipped. - How long does it take to get a Japan work visa in India?
Once you submit all required documents:
- Visa processing by the Embassy: Approximately 5–10 working days
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) approval in Japan: 1–2 months
Processing times may vary depending on your visa type, completeness of documents, and the workload at the Embassy or VFS center. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended joining date in Japan.
- Can I renew my Japan work visa?
Yes, Japan work visas are renewable as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements and maintain your employment. Renewal applications must be submitted before the expiration of your current visa. Renewal fees vary depending on the visa type and duration but generally are between ¥4,000 – ¥6,000 (approximately ₹2,200 – ₹3,300) for Indian applicants. - Are there taxes or insurance expenses linked to a Japan work visa?
The visa itself does not include any taxes. However, once you become a resident in Japan on a work visa, you are required to pay:
- Health insurance contributions
- Pension contributions
- Income and local taxes
These costs are separate from the visa application and will depend on your salary, location, and employment status in Japan.
Learn Japanese for Better Job Opportunities in Japan
To increase your chances of getting hired in Japan, especially under SSW and Skilled Labor categories, learning Japanese is essential. A good language foundation improves your employment opportunities and interview success.
TLS – The Japanese Language School
2/81-82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No – 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi – 110092
Phone: +91 8700956038
Email: tls@teamlanguages.com
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