If you are planning a trip to Japan next year, here is something you should not ignore.

From March 2, 2026, Indian travellers applying for a Japan visa in four southern Indian cities will no longer be allowed to walk in without an appointment. The change was officially announced by VFS Global on February 21, 2026.

In simple terms, no appointment means no application submission.

Walk-In System Ends at These Visa Centres

Until now, many applicants could visit the Visa Application Centres and submit their documents without booking a slot in advance. That option is now ending in:

• Chennai
• Hyderabad
• Kochi
• Puducherry

From March 2, every applicant must book an appointment online before visiting the centre. This rule applies to all types of Japan visas.

If you show up without a confirmed slot, your documents will not be accepted.

We have an important update for Japan visa applicants in Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad, and Puducherry in India.

For more information, please visit https://t.co/EvUVXXVZOk pic.twitter.com/w1hIX0fEYD

— VFS Global (@VFSGlobal) February 27, 2026

Why Japan Visa Rules Are Changing

Japan has become increasingly popular among Indian travellers in recent years. Better flight connections, strong cultural interest, and rising outbound travel from India have pushed up demand.

As a result, visa centres in South India have been facing long queues and heavy crowding, especially during peak travel periods.

The new appointment-only system is meant to:

• Reduce long waiting times
• Manage crowds better
• Spread applicants evenly throughout the day
• Make the process more organised

For travellers, this means fewer chaotic queues. But it also means more planning.

What This Means for Indian Travellers

If you are applying for a Japan Visa from one of these four cities, here is what changes for you:

• You must book your appointment online before visiting the centre
• Walk-ins will not be entertained
• Peak seasons may see limited slots

This becomes especially important during busy travel periods such as:

• Cherry blossom season
• Summer holidays
• Year-end travel season

If you wait too long, you may not get a suitable appointment date.

Documents Required for a Japan Visa

Before your appointment, make sure your paperwork is complete. You will typically need:

• A valid passport with sufficient validity
• Completed visa application form
• Passport-size photographs
• Confirmed travel itinerary
• Hotel booking details
• Proof of financial capacity
• Travel insurance

Incomplete or incorrect documents can delay your application. In some cases, you may be asked to resubmit.

It is always safer to double-check everything before your appointment date.

How to Book a Japan Visa Appointment

The process is now straightforward but mandatory. You need to:

1. Visit the official VFS Global website
2. Select your preferred visa centre
3. Choose an available date and time
4. Enter accurate personal details
5. Confirm your appointment

Once booked, save both digital and printed copies of your confirmation.

Visa fees will depend on the type of visa you apply for. Single-entry visas usually cost less than multiple-entry visas.

Practical Tips Before You Apply

If you are planning a Japan trip from South India, keep these points in mind:

• Book your appointment early
• Keep a buffer of at least a few weeks before your travel date
• Double-check every document
• Monitor official updates in case of further changes

Japan remains one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian tourists. The process is not becoming harder, just more structured.

Plan ahead, secure your slot, and you should face no surprises.