IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? On Monday, Japan implemented an extension of visa validity to 10 years for Indian nationals.

What does the change mean? Indian nationals may obtain a 10-year multiple-entry visa to Japan for business and academic exchange purposes on their first visit. The purpose of their subsequent trips to Japan can be for tourism or to meet friends and family.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
  • Visas/permits affected: Business visas.
  • Who is affected: Indian nationals applying for business visas to Japan.
  • Impact on processing times: With an extended validity period, Indian nationals will not need to renew their visas as often.
  • Business impact: The visas will make travel easier and more convenient for Indian nationals who make frequent business trips to Japan.

Background: Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida said the new visa rules aim to increase repeat visits to Japan and enhance convenience in the business sector. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced the planned visa relaxation in his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December.

BAL Analysis: The extended visa validity will benefit business visitors, academics and artists from the two countries. Travelers are reminded, however, that they are not permitted to conduct activities on business visas that will generate revenue or activities for which they will receive remuneration.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Japan. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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