Japan Visa Rejected: Bengaluru Duo Seeks Refund

Two Bengaluru-based IT professionals are grappling with financial and logistical challenges after their Japan tourist visa applications were unexpectedly rejected without any official explanation or documentation. The applicants had submitted their applications through VFS Global, Japan’s official visa processing partner in India, for a planned eight-day vacation. However, their passports were returned without visa stickers, rejection stamps, or any formal notice of refusal.

No Visa, No Explanation

Despite submitting all required documents—including financial statements, income tax returns, employer NOCs, confirmed flight and hotel bookings—the duo received their passports with no indication of approval or rejection. When contacted, VFS Global representatives verbally informed them that their visas had been denied and advised them to reapply only after six months. However, no written communication or formal rejection letter was provided, which is not uncommon under Japan’s visa policy.

Airline Refund Denied Due to Lack of Proof

The absence of formal documentation has caused further complications. The travellers approached airlines and booking platforms to cancel and request refunds, but were refused due to the lack of a written visa rejection notice. Most travel service providers require documentary proof of visa refusal to honor refund claims for non-refundable tickets and accommodations.

Lack of Transparency Raises Concerns

This incident highlights a growing concern among Indian travellers about the lack of transparency in Japan’s visa rejection process. Unlike several other countries that issue formal letters detailing reasons for denial, Japan often returns passports without any annotation. This not only creates uncertainty but also affects the applicant's ability to seek financial recourse.

The affected individuals have since reached out to both VFS Global and the Japanese Consulate in Bengaluru via email, requesting official confirmation of the refusal. As of now, they have not received a response.

Calls for Policy Reforms

Travel industry experts and frequent flyers are urging the Japanese Embassy to consider revising their visa communication practices. They recommend issuing at least a standard rejection letter to help travellers manage bookings and plan future applications with greater clarity.

What Applicants Should Know

• No job or travel guarantee: A visa application is never a guarantee of approval—even with complete documentation.
• No mandatory reason for refusal: Japan is not obligated to issue reasons for refusal under current rules.
• Retain all paperwork: Booking confirmations, VFS receipts, and application copies may assist in follow-ups.
• Reapplication period: Most denied applicants are advised to wait six months before reapplying.

Final Word

As international travel resumes post-pandemic, clarity in visa processing and communication is becoming increasingly vital. Incidents like these stress the importance of documented refusals and transparent processing systems, especially when large financial sums are at stake.