How to Apply for a Japan Tourist Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide for Philippine Passport Holders
Planning a trip to Japan? Whether you’re eager to explore Tokyo’s neon-lit streets, immerse yourself in Kyoto’s historic temples, or savor authentic sushi in Osaka, securing the right visa is the first step to making your dream trip a reality. Understanding the requirements, necessary documents, and processing times can save you time and ensure a smooth journey.
I've experienced the sting of a Japan visa rejection once, but I’ve since successfully secured both single-entry and multiple-entry visas for various countries. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a Japan visa. From determining which visa type suits your travel plans to preparing your application and navigating the approval process, we’ve got you covered. Let’s make sure you’re fully prepared so you can focus on enjoying all that Japan has to offer! 🌸✨
If you prefer to watch videos, this guide is also available on Tiktok.
Japan Visa Application Process in the Philippines
Navigating the visa application process can be straightforward if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine the Appropriate Visa Type
Identify the visa category that aligns with your travel purpose. The following are the most common visa types for Filipinos entering Japan temporarily:
Tourism: For leisure and sightseeing.
Business, Conference, Cultural Exchange, etc.: For attending meetings, conferences, or any work-related activities.
Visiting Relatives or Friends and Distant Relatives: To see family or acquaintances residing in Japan.
If you are planning to enter Japan multiple times, you may apply for a multiple-entry visa through the following categories:
Frequent Traveler: Period of stay is limited to 30 days at a time.
Philippine Nationals with Considerable Financial Capacity: For applicants with considerably high income. Period of stay is limited to 90 days at a time.
Business and Cultural or Intellectual Figures: For business affairs, but may be used for other purposes such as tourism, visiting relatives, etc. Period of stay can be 15, 30, or 90 days at a time.
Each category has specific requirements, so ensure you select the correct one.
For more visa types, visit the Japan Embassy website.
Step 2: Decide Your Travel Date
The next step is to determine your travel date because it dictates when you should apply for your Japan visa. A single-entry tourist visa is valid for only three months from the date of issue—not the intended travel date—meaning you should apply no earlier than three months before your trip. If you apply too early, your visa might expire before you even leave!
This rule mainly applies to single-entry visas, but I recommend following it even if you’re applying for a multiple-entry visa—just in case you don’t get approved for multiple-entry. If that happens, you may still be granted a single-entry visa, which is better than nothing, right?
Step 3: Gather Necessary Documents
Prepare the following documents:
Valid Philippine Passport: Must have at least six months' validity and two blank pages.
Completed Visa Application Form: Download and fill out the form from the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines website.
Recent Passport-Sized Photo: 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm with a white background. No digital editing!
Daily Schedule in Japan: Outline of your activities during your stay using the form from the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines website.
If you are covering all or part of your travel expenses, submit the following financial documents:
Bank Certificate: Must show the 6 months average daily balance.
Income Tax Return: Must be signed by you and your employer.
Certificate of Employment: Should reflect your position, date of employment, and compensation.
All of the above documents must be issued within three months of your application date.
If you are applying for the first time or do not have a used Japan visa on your passport, submit the following documents:
Birth Certificate: Issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) within the past one (1) year.
Marriage Certificate: If you are married, also issued by the PSA within the past one (1) year.
Additional documents may be required based on your visa type.
If you are unable to pass certain requirements, you may submit alternative documents and attach a Cover Letter explaining your circumstances.
Step 4: Choose an Accredited Travel Agency
The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines processes visa applications through accredited agencies. Select one from the official list and submit your documents to them.
⚠️ Important Update as of March 19, 2025 ⚠️
Effective April 6, 2025, Japan visa applications will no longer be accepted through travel agencies. Results of applications made through travel agencies before this date will also be released through the travel agency.
Effective April 7, 2025, Japan visa applications shall be made through the Japan Visa Application Center. You may set an online appointment to any of the five centers in the Philippines through this link.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Visit your chosen agency and provide all required documents. Ensure that your application form is accurately completed to avoid delays. The agency will review your submission and forward it to the embassy for processing.
Japan visa application is free of charge! But agencies will charge a handling fee, which varies depending on the agency and visa type. This can be as low as ₱1,200 for single-entry and ₱1,700 for multiple-entry visa.
Some travelers report paying less, but since agencies don’t always publish their rates, I can’t verify exact prices. If you find a cheaper fee, let me know in the comments!
Step 6: Await Processing
The usual processing time for Japan visa application is 5-10 working days, but may be longer in peak seasons.
As of January 9, 2025, due to a surge in applications, processing times have extended. It's now recommended to apply at least two months before your intended travel date.
Step 7: Collect Your Passport
Once a decision is made, the agency will inform you to pick up your passport. Retrieve your passport from the agency; if approved, your visa will be affixed inside. If denied, you should have a red barcode sticker at the back of your passport.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a Japan Tourist Visa as a Philippine passport holder may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right preparation and attention to detail, the process can be smooth and hassle-free. By ensuring you have all the necessary documents, following the step-by-step application process, and submitting a strong and complete application, you increase your chances of approval.
Remember to apply well in advance of your planned trip to allow enough time for processing. If you’re traveling with a guarantor or an invitation, make sure all supporting documents are properly prepared to avoid any delays.
Once your visa is approved, it’s time to start planning your dream trip to Japan! From exploring vibrant cities like Tokyo and Osaka to experiencing the beauty of Kyoto’s temples and cherry blossoms, Japan offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
For a detailed guide on the requirements and alternative documents, visit this blog:
More on Japan Visa Application
Related Posts
Not sure what documents you need for an Australian visa? You’re not alone! Many Filipino travelers find the visa process daunting, especially because the application is done online without the help of travel agents. But with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be stressful! Understanding the requirements ahead of time can make a huge difference in ensuring a smooth and successful application.