Embassy of Japan

I am deeply frustrated with my experience at this embassy in Georgia. I called their official hotline before my Japan trip, and they clearly informed me that no appointment was needed for a visa application. Based on this, I made non-refundable travel plans, spending over $4,000 on flights for myself and my wife, hotel bookings, and more. However, upon arrival at the embassy, I was told the opposite — an appointment is necessary, and the earliest available date is May 7, even though our flight is on April 24. I tried to explain my predicament, hoping for some assistance, but instead encountered extremely rude and unprofessional behavior from the consular front desk.

I repeatedly asked if my case could be escalated or if I could speak to someone senior, but the staff member refused and wouldn't even give his name, which seemed suspicious for someone in his position. Instead of offering help, he questioned why I had made my bookings before securing an appointment, despite their hotline giving me incorrect information. I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being treated unfairly, perhaps because of my name or the fact that I’m not ethnically Georgian.

This experience has been very distressing. I’ve lost thousands of dollars, received no support, and was treated with complete disrespect. It is shocking that someone with such an attitude is allowed to represent the embassy. I hope this review leads to changes in how they communicate with the public, train their staff, and deal with urgent situations.

Ранее я думал, что визит в посольство может быть пугающим, но здесь оказалось всё очень дружелюбно и спокойно. Нужна предварительная запись. Вход в здание не очевиден: он расположен справа от входа в отель Hilton. Входите через стеклянные двери, где виден синий флаг ЕС. На ресепшене сообщите, что у вас назначена встреча в японском посольстве (по-английски или на грузинском). Даже если вы приедете заранее, вас попросят ждать до времени вашего визита.

Посольство находится на девятом этаже. Внутри вам нужно будет сдать все вещи, кроме необходимых документов и паспорта. Обратите внимание: мобильные телефоны тоже нужно оставить. Рекомендую заранее подготовить всё нужное: документы, паспорт, а также записать на бумаге информацию, которую могут спросить, например, ваш адрес, дату рождения (и по японскому, и по западному календарю), и номер телефона.

Everything is well-organized and everyone is really welcoming. Better not to drive here, because paid parking is available across the street.

The staff are incredibly kind and modest. I felt very much at ease and thankful.

This has to be one of the top embassies I've ever visited. The staff was incredibly polite and welcoming. I appreciated their patience in answering every single question.

Персонал здесь радует доброжелательностью и вниманием ☀️.