Visiting Friends & Relatives in Japan: Japan Visa Requirements for Filipinos
Visiting Japan is always an exciting experience, especially if you're going there to reunite with loved ones. However, before you can book your flight and start planning your itinerary, securing the right visa is crucial. If you have family members or friends residing in Japan who are inviting you over, you will need to apply for either a Visiting Relatives Visa or a Visiting Friends or Distant Relatives Visa. Understanding the difference between these two and ensuring you have the correct documents will make the process much smoother.
Applying for a visa can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right preparation, you can avoid unnecessary delays and increase your chances of approval. This guide will walk you through the essential requirements, including invitation letters, proof of relationship, and financial documents. Whether you’re visiting close family or reconnecting with a friend, this step-by-step breakdown will help you navigate the application process with confidence. Let’s get started!
If you prefer to watch videos, this guide is also available on Tiktok.
Visa Categories
First things first, if you are visiting a relative or a friend residing in Japan, then you can apply for either a visiting relatives visa or a visiting friends or distant relatives visa. They sound pretty similar, but what’s the difference?
A visiting relatives visa should be used if you are visiting a relative within the 3rd degree of relationship with you. If your relative is any of the ones highlighted in this photo then this visa is applicable to you.
But if your relative is beyond the third degree or if you are invited by someone not related to you, then the visiting friends or distant relatives visa is for you.
Visa Requirements for Filipinos Visiting Friends or Relatives in Japan
1. Invitation Letter
The first requirement is an invitation letter, which is a downloadable form from the Japan embassy website. You can access the official form here. Make sure to fill it out accurately and completely before submitting.
2. Itinerary in Japan
The next requirement is your itinerary, which outlines your planned activities and accommodations while in Japan. This is a standard visa requirement, so you can refer to the blog post below for a detailed guide. If you’re staying with your inviter, make sure to mention this in your itinerary. If you have any insights on whether it’s mandatory to stay with your inviter or if visiting them is enough, feel free to share in the comments!
3. Residence Certificate (Jumin-hyo) of Inviter
Since this visa requires that your inviter resides in Japan, you need to submit their residence certificate (Jumin-hyo) with household composition. This document serves as proof that your inviter is legally living in Japan.
4. Proof of Relationship & Additional Requirements
You’ll also need to provide documents proving your relationship with your inviter. The requirements vary depending on whether they are a relative or a friend:
For Visiting Relatives Visa: If your inviter is a family member, submit their family registry (Koseki-tohon) if they or their spouse is Japanese. If they are not Japanese, submit a photocopy of their residence card.
For Visiting Friends and Distant Relatives Visa:
If your inviter is a friend, submit evidence of your relationship, such as photos, emails, receipts of remittances or parcels, passport photocopies with travel stamps, etc.
If your inviter is a distant relative (beyond the third degree), you may need to submit legal documents like a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or Koseki-tohon.
5. Financial Documents of Guarantor (If Applicable)
If your inviter is also acting as your guarantor, they must submit a guarantee letter along with financial documents. These documents should come from Japan since your guarantor is a Japan resident. For a detailed guide on guarantor requirements, check out the blog post below.
Tips for a Smooth Japan Visa Application
1. Ensure your inviter provided complete and accurate documents.
2. Strengthen your proof of ties to the Philippines.
3. Prepare a detailed cover letter. Be honest and transparent with your plans.
4. Double-check your documents before submission. Make sure that all documents are consistent. Don’t forget to include your inviter’s details in your application form.
Final Thoughts
Visa applications can feel overwhelming, but if you prepare the right documents and follow the process carefully, your chances of approval are high. If all else fails, remember that you can still visit your friends or relatives with a tourist visa instead.
I hope this guide made your visa application process clearer and easier! For more helpful tips, check out our other guides, and get ready to enjoy your time in Japan. Safe travels!
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Applying for a Japan visa with a sponsor or guarantor can make the process smoother, but it also comes with additional requirements. Whether you’re being financially supported by a family member or a friend, it’s essential to provide the necessary documents to prove your relationship and your sponsor’s ability to fund your trip. Submitting a well-prepared application increases your chances of approval and ensures a hassle-free visa process.