Last month I decided to apply for Japan tourist visa, thought it would be simple paperwork. Boy was I wrong! My first attempt got rejected flat out. Had to redo everything and pay fees again. Finally got it on second try though.
Started by grabbing application forms from embassy website. Printed it on regular A4 paper like I always do. Later learned Japan requires actual 35mm x 45mm photos glued on specific spot, not printed on paper. That was screw-up number one.
Went through bank statements next. My account had dip last month when I paid car repair bill. Left it like that thinking “they’ll understand”. Nope! Visa officer circled that low balance in red pen. You need steady bank balance for past 3 months – no sudden dips allowed. Second mistake right there.
For itinerary part, I wrote “Osaka-Kyoto sightseeing”. Sounded fine to me! Rejection letter said “insufficient details”. Third mistake learned hard way – must list exact dates, hotel names and daily plans like “April 10: Check-in Hotel A, Osaka Castle visit” specifically.
Nearly messed up flights too. Found cheap non-refundable tickets and almost booked before getting visa. Thank god I asked travel buddy who warned me – never book non-refundable flights before visa approval. Saved myself fourth disaster there.
Final headache was employment letter. My HR wrote “employee since 2021” but forgot exact salary figure. Embassy returned it demanding monthly/annual salary must be clearly printed on company letterhead. Fifth mistake avoided because I triple-checked with embassy hotline.
Submitted second application sweating bullets. Took 7 working days – felt like eternity! When visa sticker finally came, did happy dance in post office. Moral of story? Japan visa rules are stricter than airport security. Read instructions like detective novel, follow exactly, and pray!
