Planning a trip from India to another country with a layover in Japan? If your itinerary involves landing at one Japanese airport and departing from another (e.g., Narita to Haneda, or vice versa), or transferring between terminals or any other airports within Japan, you may be wondering: "Do I need a transit visa for Japan just to change airports?" The answer is yes—and here’s everything you need to know to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Why You Need a Transit Visa for Airport Change in Japan
Japan has strict immigration rules, especially for Indian passport holders. If you’re arriving at one airport and flying out from another, you’ll have to enter Japan, collect your luggage, and travel across the city or region to the next airport. This means you’re stepping into Japanese territory—not just transiting within the airport.
Important: Even if you’re only in Japan for a few hours, you need a visa if you’re crossing the immigration line.
How to Apply for a Japan Transit Visa (Indian Passport Holders)
1. Prepare the Required Documents
- Passport (valid with at least 2 blank pages)
- Visa application form [Download Here]
- One recent passport photo (45mm x 35mm, white background)
- Flight tickets (India ➝ Japan ➝ Destination)
- Valid visa for final destination (e.g., Canada, USA)
- Hotel booking (if staying overnight)
- Detailed travel itinerary
- Proof of finances (bank statements, payslips)
2. Submit Your Application via VFS Global
Japan visa applications in India are handled by VFS Global.
Locate the nearest center, book an appointment, and track your application online.
- Processing time: 5 working days
- Visa fee: ~INR 550 + VFS service charge
What About a Shore Pass?
Some travelers ask: “Can I just get a Shore Pass at the airport instead?”
A Shore Pass is a short-term permission (up to 72 hours) issued at the discretion of immigration officers in Japan. However:
- Not all airlines support this
- You cannot apply for it in advance
- It’s not guaranteed and risky if you miss your connecting flight
Safe option? Always apply for a transit visa in advance.
Getting Between Airports in Japan: Travel Options
- Limousine Bus: ~90 minutes, ~3,200 yen (Narita ↔ Haneda)
- Train (Narita Express + Keikyu Line): ~1.5 hours, ~2,500 yen
- Taxi: Expensive (~30,000 yen), not recommended unless urgent
Check real-time transport info here: Japan Transit Planner
Countries Exempted from Japan Visa Requirements
Japan has reciprocal visa exemption arrangements with 71 countries and regions. Some of these include:
- Asia: Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan
- Europe: UK, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain
- North America: USA, Canada
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
See the full list on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: Visa Exemption List
Final Tips
- Arrive in Japan with at least 6–8 hours layover to manage the airport transfer
- Carry printed copies of all bookings and documents for immigration
- Install Google Translate or learn basic Japanese phrases for assistance
Useful Links
