Japan is, without a doubt, one of the foreign countries that I would LOVE to visit over and over again! However, as a third world passport holder from the Philippines, we are always required to avail of a Japan visa whenever we want to enter their country… and I’m not gonna lie: it can be quite a hassle!
As a Filipino, surely you might be thinking that it’s hard to get one… but I can tell you from experience that it’s actually NOT that difficult!
In fact: it was easy, and by the second time that I applied, I got myself a multiple entry tourist visa to Japan which now gives me the chance to visit for as much as I want without having to apply for a visa beforehand. (UPDATE: As of 2018, the Embassy is now issuing 10-year visas!)
RELATED READ:
– Tokyo Itinerary
– Top Things to do in Tokyo (Per District)
– Japan Itinerary Ideas and Travel Guide
– Best Japan Spots to Go to During Cherry Blossom Season
What to Do in Japan…?
Come and check out this list of the top things to do in Japan which features the best activities and tours to do in places like Tokyo, Kyoto, and more!
The application process for a Japan visa was EASY and hopefully, with the help of this guide, you can get to visit Japan soon!
…But first, a disclaimer:
NO ONE can give you a guarantee of your Japan visa’s approval — not even a lawyer, a consultant, a travel agent, or an embassy employee. Anyone who says otherwise is most likely going to be a scammer.
That being said, what I can offer you here is a comprehensive guide with helpful tips to increase your chances of getting that Japan Visa.
Top photo by: Shutterstock
ApplicationProcess for Japan Visa
Step 1: Determine the type of Japan visa you need to apply for
There are, of course, various types of Japan Visas out there that you can apply for: a visa for medical stay, a visa for business, a visa for transit, a visa for being a spouse, etc.
For this particular guide, I will only be discussing the requirements for a tourist visa and visits to a friend or relative since they are experiences that I’ve gone through myself (both for single and multiple entry types as well as if you’re visiting with or without a guarantor/sponsor).
If, however, you have a different situation or purpose of visit, it’s best that you head over to this page of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines for more information.
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Step 2: Prepare the required documents for your application
Depending on your circumstance, click the symbol ‘+‘ below to view the corresponding requirements for each section.
- Make sure that you have authentic, original (if required), and complete documents at all times — preferably ALL in A4 size. Take note though that the embassy does NOT return any of the following documents that you’ll be submitting. If you have an original document that you want to be returned, please submit a photocopy of it too, and a note that the original must be returned.
(Section A) Japan Tourist Visa WITHOUT Any Guarantor/Sponsor
- Philippine Passport. If your photo has broken lamination, it will NOT be accepted. Make sure as well that your passport is valid for 6 months prior to your intended travel date, it has your signature, and has at least two (2) blank pages.
. - A duly accomplished Japan Visa Application Form.
- Print the Japan Visa Application Form in A4 size.
- Download the application form from here (you can see a sample filled-out form of this here). It is possible to type your information on this form; otherwise, if you’re going to fill it out by hand, make sure there will be NO erasures. Best to write in print or in capitalized letters too.
- Do completely fill out the form properly and ensure that you have signed it with your signature. Put “N/A” in all spaces that are not applicable, especially on the 2nd page.
- To view, a sample filled-out Japan Visa Application Form, see here.
- There are sections here that ask for your airline and hotel name…
This does NOT mean that you are required to book your airline and hotel beforehand because the embassy does NOT require applicants to book it before approval and the embassy also does NOT require you to submit documents related to it. That being said, just write here your intended airline to book with and the hotel that you plan to stay in should your Japan visa be approved. If you’re going to stay in multiple hotels, just pick one to write on the form.
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If in case you want some “peace of mind” and still want to book a hotel to show to the embassy, it’s best to do it with Booking.com or Agoda.com. With them, you can reserve a hotel with NO pre-payment and you can even cancel the booking a day before your arrival with NO cancellation charges at all.
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For flights, you can easily get a flight reservation online with OneWayFly for a small fee of only Php 1,000~. I highly recommend them because they are fast, easy, and legitimate; plus, I have been using them for years for all of my visa applications! (Read here for more info).
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When it’s time to book your final roundtrip tickets, my go-to platform is Skyscanner for the best flight deals.
- 4.5cm x 4.5 cm Photo (white background). This must be pasted on the Japan Visa Application form.
- The photo must be taken in the past 6 months.
- Photos that are pixelated or of low resolution will NOT be accepted.
- Please also write your name and birthdate on the backside of the photo before pasting it.
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- NSO Birth Certificate. This must be an NSO Original that has been issued within one (1) year. It must be acquired from the PSA’s (Philippine Statistics Office’s) main office or from any Serbilis Outlet Centers nationwide. In case your birth certificate from PSA is unreadable or has incomplete information, please submit your birth certificate issued by PSA together with a birth certificate from the Local Civil Registrar. Otherwise…
- If your birth certificate is “Late Registration”, submit your Baptismal Certificate (it must have the complete address and telephone information of the church) and School Record [Form 137] from high school or elementary (it must have complete address and telephone information of the school).
- If you have NO record in PSA, please submit a “Certificate of Non-Record” from PSA together with a birth certificate from the Local Civil Registrar.
A birth certificate is NOT required for submission IF you have already been issued a Japan Visa before (old or still valid). However, if you are going to take a guarantor/sponsor that is a member of your family, you will still need to submit it as proof of your relationship.
- NSO Marriage Certificate. Of course, this is only if you’re married. Make sure that it has been issued within one year from PSA Main Office/Serbilis Outlet Center (Nationwide). In case there is no record in PSA, please submit a “Certificate of Non-Record” from PSA together with the Marriage Certificate from the Local Civil Registrar.
This is NOT required for submission IF you have already been issued a Japan Visa before (old or still valid).
- Daily Schedule in Japan. Download the form here. This is basically how you give the Embassy a rough idea of your travel itinerary. I assure you that it doesn’t need to be complicated or thoroughly detailed. Check out the examples of daily schedule forms that I have filled out below.
- Along with this, I usually attach a cover letter explaining the purpose of my travel to Japan. To see an example, go here.
- Bank Certificate. This must be an original copy from your bank which must be issued within the past 3 months.
- How much should you have in your bank account? The Japan Embassy did not mention any minimum balance requirement, but I have surely heard of someone (and some others) who was (were) granted a Japan visa even with only Php 50,000 in the bank (with a trip that spanned 5 days) — so let’s use that as a minimum standard (but again it’s always best that you have more).
- Meanwhile, do take note that your bank certificate will often show the monthly average balance of your savings account; therefore, depositing a sudden large amount of money in order to assist you in your visa application is NOT really a good idea.
- ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE ON A GUARANTOR/SPONSOR FOR YOUR APPLICATION? Then submit his/her bank certificate instead.
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- How much should you have in your bank account? The Japan Embassy did not mention any minimum balance requirement, but I have surely heard of someone (and some others) who was (were) granted a Japan visa even with only Php 50,000 in the bank (with a trip that spanned 5 days) — so let’s use that as a minimum standard (but again it’s always best that you have more).
- Proof of Income. If you’re retired or a senior citizen, you can refrain from submitting an ITR for as long as you submit your Bank Certificate and explain why you can’t submit an ITR. Otherwise…
- For employed persons.
- Latest ITR (Form 2316) clear photocopy in A4 paper with the receipt stamp from BIR (or if you used e-Tax, please submit the receipt notification).
- If you do NOT have an ITR, explain in your cover letter why you’re unable to submit it (examples: you’re newly employed, etc.) and ensure that you also submit Bank Statements for the last 3 months.
- Certificate of Employment specifying applicant’s position, period of employment, monthly (or annual) income, and certifier’s name and contact information
- For self-employed / business persons.
- If you’re a freelancer, provide your latest ITR (Form 1701A) clear photocopy on A4 paper.
- If you own a business, submit the company ITR and a copy of the Certificate of Registration issued by DTI / SEC.
- If you do NOT have an ITR, explain in your cover letter why you’re unable to submit it (examples: you’re newly employed, etc.) and ensure that you also submit Bank Statements for the last 3 months.
- !!! Start filing your local taxes as early as NOW — after all, a lot of embassies (not only Japan) require an ITR. So if you’re looking for a hassle-free experience on Philippines tax compliance, I suggest registering with Taxumo because they can take care of literally everything for you: tax forms, payments, and submissions.
- For OFWs.
- Provide tax exemption form from BIR.
- Certificate of Employment (or contract of employment)
- For unemployed persons.
- Given the way the Embassy of Japan presents its requirements for visa application, it’s best that you acquire a guarantor/sponsor who can provide an ITR and help support your financial standing.
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- Given the way the Embassy of Japan presents its requirements for visa application, it’s best that you acquire a guarantor/sponsor who can provide an ITR and help support your financial standing.
- For employed persons.
- List of Visa Applicants. This is only if you are applying as a group or as a family. For this, you need a representative applicant and this can be one of your parents or your key sponsor. To accomplish this, just fill up the form found here. Print in on an A4 paper as always.
- There is a section in the form that asks for a “Relationship with the inviting person and guarantor”, just write N/A here because you’re only applying as a tourist. This is only applicable if you’re visiting friends or relatives in Japan.
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(Section B) Japan Tourist Visa WITH Non-Japanese Guarantor/Sponsor LIVING IN the Philippines
This kind of application is applicable for students, minors, unemployed persons, spouses (if one of you can’t submit a bank certificate), and even self-employed persons/freelancers (who can’t provide an ITR and have no strong reason why they can’t submit it). This also applies to anyone who has a company/agency to sponsor their trip.
For submitting the necessary requirements, simply submit the requirements listed in section (A), numbers #1 to #6 and when it comes to (#7) Bank Certificate and (#8) Proof of Income, ask these from your guarantor/sponsor — it could be your mom, dad, brother, sister, friend, boyfriend, girlfriend, relative, company, etc. who is living in the Philippines.
Take note, however, that there are NO guarantees of approval if your guarantor is NOT a family member of yours. In fact, it is said that it’s a lot better to have a direct family member sponsoring you.
For other documents, you should also submit the following…
- Guarantee Letter. Download the template here: [Japanese] or [English]. This must be issued within the past 3 months.
- Under “Seal”, this is supposedly for companies who will sponsor you. If it’s an individual who does not have a seal, he/she can just put his/her signature there.
- For multiple applicants who have the same guarantor, please write the name of the representative and “Others names, see attached list”. Then, don’t forget to fill out the “List of Visa Applicants” document mentioned in #10 in Section A above.
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- Photocopy of Guarantor/Sponsor’s Passport. Provide a photocopy of the bio page only; if not, it can be a photocopy of any Visa page or any government-issued ID.
- If your guarantor/sponsor is a foreigner or foreign national, please also provide a photocopy of his/her identity card (I-CARD) or AEP (Alien Employment Permit).
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- If your guarantor/sponsor is a foreigner or foreign national, please also provide a photocopy of his/her identity card (I-CARD) or AEP (Alien Employment Permit).
- Proof of Relationship. If your sponsor is a member of your family, you can provide documents such as an NSO birth or marriage certificate (as applicable), etc. If it’s a friend, it can be photos of the 2 of you together, screenshots of chat conversations, emails, etc.
- For your cover letter, it helps to explain why the said person is serving as your sponsor or guarantor.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
- If you’re a student or minor…
- Submit your Certificate of Enrollment and/or school record (Form 137).
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- Submit your Certificate of Enrollment and/or school record (Form 137).
- If your guarantor/sponsor is a foreigner or foreign national…
- If he has NO account in any of the local banks in the Philippines, he/she can provide a photocopy of his/her bank statement with contact details.
- Providing payslips will help.
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(Section C) Japan Tourist Visa WITH Japanese Guarantor/Sponsor LIVING IN Japan
If your guarantor or sponsor is a Japanese person living in Japan, aside from the requirements listed in section (A), numbers #1 to #6, you should also submit the following:
- Guarantee Letter. Download the template here: [Japanese] or [English]. This must be issued within the past 3 months.
- For multiple applicants who have the same guarantor, please write the name of the representative and “Others names, see attached list”. Then, don’t forget to fill out the “List of Visa Applicants” document mentioned in #10 in Section A above.
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- For multiple applicants who have the same guarantor, please write the name of the representative and “Others names, see attached list”. Then, don’t forget to fill out the “List of Visa Applicants” document mentioned in #10 in Section A above.
- Residence Certificate. Called “Juminhyo”, this must be issued within the past 3 months. Please submit a certificate with a description of all household members. However, it should be without Individual Number (Kojin-bango) and Residence Certificate Code (Juminhyo-code).
. - Proof of Income. Submit any of the following…
- Income Certificate (Shotoku Shomeisho) from City Hall
- Tax Return Certificate (Nouzei-shomeisho: Form2) with Gross Income from Tax Office
- Kakutei-shinkokusho Hikae or Bank Certificate (Yokin Zandaka Shomeisho) copy with an acceptance stamp of the tax office (if you used e-Tax, please submit Notice of receipt or Jushin-tsuuchi together with the copy of the Final tax return forms or Kakutei-shinkokusho)._
- The following are NOT accepted: Gensen ChoShusho, Nouzeishomeisho Form 1, and Soushotoku (without annual income)
- The above items must be issued within 3 months. Submission of Withholding Slip (GENSEN-CHOSHU- HYO) in lieu of the above documents is unacceptable. But take note that the guarantor’s Income Certificate etc. is important in measuring their capability to support you; therefore, submission of more than one document is allowed and encouraged.
NOTES:
In addition to numbers #7 to #9 above, if you’re invited and are intending to stay in your Japanese guarantor/sponsor’s residence in Japan who is a DIRECT (parent, sister/brothers, aunts/uncles, or niece/nephews) or DISTANT relative (cousins, etc.), you must submit:
- Invitation Letter. Download the template here: [Japanese] or [English]. This must be issued within the past 3 months, signed, and completed by your Japanese guarantor/sponsor.
- As to the purpose and background of the invitation, please fill in the concrete activities you are planning as well as the background/circumstances of the invitation in detail. Any vague descriptions such as “Sightseeing”, “Visiting Acquaintances” or “Visiting Relatives” will not be accepted so please indicate specific contents of activities.
- Please do not submit a copy of your Individual Number Card (“My Number Card”) or your Medical Insurance Card in Japan. If it ever shows on any of the documents you’re submitting, ensure that it is concealed.
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- Family Registration. Called “Koseki Tohon”, this must be issued within the past 3 months
Alternatively, if you’re invited and are intending to stay in your Japanese guarantor/sponsor’s residence in Japan who is a FRIEND only (non-family), you must submit:
- Invitation Letter. Download the template here: [Japanese] or [English]. This must be issued within the past 3 months, signed, and completed by your Japanese guarantor/sponsor.
- As to the purpose and background of the invitation, please fill in the concrete activities you are planning as well as the background/circumstances of the invitation in detail. Any vague descriptions such as “Sightseeing”, “Visiting Acquaintances” or “Visiting Relatives” will not be accepted so please indicate specific contents of activities.
- Please do not submit a copy of your Individual Number Card (“My Number Card”) or your Medical Insurance Card in Japan. If it ever shows on any of the documents you’re submitting, ensure that it is concealed.
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- Proof of Relationship. This can be photos of the 2 of you together, screenshots of chat conversations, or emails.
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(Section D) Japan Tourist Visa WITH Non-Japanese Guarantor/Sponsor LIVING IN Japan
If your guarantor or sponsor is a non-Japanese person living in Japan, aside from the requirements listed in section (A), numbers #1 to #6, you should also submit the following:
- Guarantee Letter. Download the template here: [Japanese] or [English]. This must be issued within the past 3 months.
- For multiple applicants who have the same guarantor, please write the name of the representative and “Others names, see attached list”. Then, don’t forget to fill out the “List of Visa Applicants” document mentioned in #10 in Section A above.
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- For multiple applicants who have the same guarantor, please write the name of the representative and “Others names, see attached list”. Then, don’t forget to fill out the “List of Visa Applicants” document mentioned in #10 in Section A above.
- Foreign Registration Certificate. Alien Card acquired from the City Hall must be issued within the past 3 months.
. - Photocopy of Passport. All pages must be photocopied.
. - Photocopy of Residence Card. Both sides of the card. Or their Special Permanent Resident Certificate (both sides).
. - Proof of Income.
- Income Certificate (Shotoku Shomeisho) from City Hall
- Tax Return Certificate (Nouzei-shomeisho: Form2) with Gross Income from Tax Office
- Kakutei-shinkokusho Hikae or Bank Certificate (Yokin Zandaka Shomeisho) copy with an acceptance stamp of the tax office (if you used e-Tax, please submit Notice of receipt or Jushin-tsuuchi together with the copy of the Final tax return forms or Kakutei-shinkokusho)._
- The following are NOT accepted: Gensen ChoShusho, Nouzeishomeisho Form 1, and Soushotoku (without annual income)
- The above items must be issued within 3 months. Submission of Withholding Slip (GENSEN-CHOSHU- HYO) in lieu of the above documents is unacceptable. But take note that the guarantor’s Income Certificate etc. is important in measuring their capability to support you; therefore, submission of more than one document is allowed and encouraged.
NOTES:
In addition to numbers #7 to #11 above, if you’re invited and are intending to stay in your non-Japanese guarantor/sponsor’s residence in Japan who is a DIRECT relative (parent, sister/brothers, aunts/uncles, or niece/nephew), you must also submit:
- Invitation Letter. Download the template here: [Japanese] or [English]. This must be issued within the past 3 months, signed, and completed by your Japanese guarantor/sponsor.
- As to the purpose and background of the invitation, please fill in the concrete activities you are planning as well as the background/circumstances of the invitation in detail. Any vague descriptions such as “Sightseeing”, “Visiting Acquaintances” or “Visiting Relatives” will not be accepted so please indicate specific contents of activities.
- Please do not submit a copy of your Individual Number Card (“My Number Card”) or your Medical Insurance Card in Japan. If it ever shows on any of the documents you’re submitting, ensure that it is concealed.
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- NSO Birth & Marriage Certificates. Depending on your relationship with the direct Filipino relative living in Japan, you must provide birth and/or marriage certificates for…
- Parent – Child: You and your relative in Japan
- Brother – Sister: You and your relative in Japan
- Aunt/Uncle – Niece/Nephew: You, your relative in Japan, and the parent of your relative in Japan
- Niece/Nephew – Aunt/Uncle: You, your parent, and your relative in Japan
Alternatively, if you’re invited and are intending to stay in your non-Japanese guarantor/sponsor’s residence in Japan who is a FRIEND only (non-family), you must submit:
- Invitation Letter. Download the template here: [Japanese] or [English]. This must be issued within the past 3 months, signed, and completed by your Japanese guarantor/sponsor.
- As to the purpose and background of the invitation, please fill in the concrete activities you are planning as well as the background/circumstances of the invitation in detail. Any vague descriptions such as “Sightseeing”, “Visiting Acquaintances” or “Visiting Relatives” will not be accepted so please indicate specific contents of activities.
- Please do not submit a copy of your Individual Number Card (“My Number Card”) or your Medical Insurance Card in Japan. If it ever shows on any of the documents you’re submitting, ensure that it is concealed
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- Proof of Relationship. This can be photos of the 2 of you together, screenshots of chat conversations, or emails.
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(Section E) Japan Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
The Embassy of Japan has updated its requirements for this type of tourist visa since 2018. First of all, they have the following conditions for granting a multiple-entry visa and it is only applicable to the following individuals who have ANY of these characteristics…
- An applicant with a history of travel as a temporary visitor to Japan in the last three (3) years and has no known violation of Japanese domestic laws nor had a problem with immigration regarding entry and status during the period of stay — and he/she must also have the sufficient financial capacity to support expenses for travel and stay.
- An applicant with a history of travel as a temporary visitor to Japan in the last three (3) years and has no known violation of Japanese domestic laws nor had a problem with immigration regarding entry and status during the period of stay — and he/she has several histories of travel as temporary visitor to G7 countries (excluding Japan) in the last (3) years. These other G7 countries are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States (USA).
- The applicant has abundant financial capacity.
- The applicant is a spouse or child of someone who has abundant financial capacity.
As for the requirements…
- Explanation Letter. Download this request for a multiple-entry temporary visitor visa form and fill it out.
- Check only which applies to you in any of the items from 1 to 4.
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- Check only which applies to you in any of the items from 1 to 4.
- Philippine Passport. This should be an ICAO standard MRP or IC ordinary passport. If your photo has broken lamination, it will NOT be accepted. Make sure as well that your passport is valid for 6 months prior to your intended travel date, has your signature, and has at least two (2) blank pages.
. - A duly accomplished Japan Visa Application Form.
- Print the Japan Visa Application Form in A4 size.
- Download the application form from here (you can see a sample filled-out form of this here). It is possible to type your information on this form; otherwise, if you’re going to fill it out by hand, make sure that there will be NO erasures. Best to write in print or in capitalized letters too.
- Completely fill out the form properly and ensure that you have signed it with your signature. Put “N/A” in all spaces that are not applicable, especially on the 2nd page.
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- 4.5cm x 4.5 cm Photo (white background). This must be pasted on the Japan Visa Application Form.
- The photograph must be taken in the past 6 months.
- Photos that are pixelated or of low resolution will NOT be accepted.
- Please also write your name and birthdate on the backside of the photo.
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- Daily Schedule in Japan. Download the form here. This is basically how you give the Embassy a rough idea of your travel itinerary. I assure you that it doesn’t need to be complicated or thoroughly detailed. Check out the examples of daily schedule forms that I have filled out below.
- Along with this, I usually attach a cover letter explaining the purpose of my travel to Japan. To see an example, go here.
Additionally, the following are some other special requirements. If under the conditions, you…
- Have travel history to Japan as a temporary visitor and have the sufficient financial capacity, you must also submit:
- Proof of travel to Japan in the last three (3) years (old or recent passport with used temporary visitor visa and landing permission stamps)
- Latest Income Tax Return (clear photocopy)
- Proof of financial capacity (applicant’s bank certificate, or dividend certificate of stocks, etc. as proof of sufficient economic status)
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- Have travel history to Japan as a temporary visitor and have traveled several times as a visitor to G7 countries excluding Japan, you must also submit:
- Proof of travel to Japan in the last three (3) years (old or recent passport with used temporary visitor visa and landing permission stamps)
- Proof of travel as a temporary visitor to G7 countries excluding Japan in the last (3) years (old or recent passport with entry visas and immigration stamps)
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- Have abundant financial capacity, you must also submit:
- Birth certificate issued by PSA within 1 year
- Marriage Certificate issued by PSA within 1 year
- Latest Income Tax Return (clear photocopy)
- Proof of financial capacity (applicant’s bank certificate, or dividend certificate of stocks, etc. as proof of sufficient economic status)
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- Are a spouse or child of someone who has an abundant financial capacity, you must also submit:
- Latest Income Tax Return of your guarantor/sponsor (clear photocopy)
- Guarantor/sponsor’s proof of financial capacity (applicant’s bank certificate, or dividend certificate of stocks, etc. as proof of sufficient economic status)
- Birth certificate issued by PSA within 1 year and/or Marriage Certificate issued by PSA within 1 year
**Feel free to provide additional documents to support your eligibility depending on your kind of work.
NOTE: It seems to be customary that if you’ve already visited Japan before, you’ll be automatically granted a multiple entry visa by your 2nd application (even if you didn’t specifically request for it — but it could be a case by case basis).
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But feel free to also apply for a multiple entry tourist visa even if it’s your 1st application since there are those who have already been successful in doing so. As always though, just ensure that you have complete documents with you for submission and are properly eligible for this as per the conditions above.
NOTE: If in case you are a Philippine national living or residing in a foreign country and you wish to avail of a Japan tourist visa, kindly inquire with the appropriate Japanese Embassy in the country that you’re living in.
On my first visit to Japan, I applied for my tourist visa at the Embassy of Japan in Brussels, Belgium, and the application was fairly easy — the requirements were almost the same as the above (maybe even less).
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Step 3: Choose an accredited travel agency to process your application
The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines does NOT accept direct applications (unless you have a very special or dire case).
So what you need to do instead is go to an accredited travel agency — submit your documents to them and they will process your application for you!
A Japan Visa is FREE, however, these travel agencies charge for the service that they offer of processing/sending your application, and their corresponding single-entry Japan tourist visa without guarantor fee are as follows (for fees on other types of tourist visas, kindly inquire with them or check their website).
- Universal Holidays in Makati = Php 1,200
- Discovery Tour in Makati, Cebu, & Davao = Php 1,200
- Rajah Travel in Makati & Ermita = Php 1,500
- Reli Tours in Makati, Pasay, Mandaluyong, Binondo and Las Pinas = Php 1,200
- Attic Tours in Pasay & Cebu = Php 1,500
- Friendship Tours and Resorts Corporation in Makati & Cebu = Php 1,200
- Pan Pacific Travel in Makati & Ermita = Php 1,000
- Pan Pacific Travel only accepts visa applications without a Japanese guarantor
Which is the best travel agency to go to if I want to increase my chances of approval?
There really is NO best travel agency out there when it comes to visa approval because they have NO control whatsoever over that matter. Again, these accredited travel agencies simply ensure that the documents you are going to give are complete — after which, they just pass it to the embassy who makes the analysis and final decision.
If however, it’s about the best in price, or the one closest to where you live, then yes, it will be easy to see who’s “best”.
Personally, I applied to Universal Holidays because they were closest to my address at that time. They’re located in Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati alongside Reli Tours and Friendship Tours, but I ended up picking Universal Holidays because they didn’t have a long line. Once I was in, the overall process of submission was streamlined and easy!
NOTE: Only pass your documents to the accredited agencies above! If you’re located far away, it’s also possible to send your documents by courier or through a representative. Just inquire with the travel agency that you’re interested in to see if such is possible.
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Step 4: Wait for the results of your Japan visa application
After you submit your documents to an accredited travel agency, you’ll just have to wait for their email/call/text message that notifies you about when you can pick up your passport, or when you still need to give them additional requirements. (Again, be aware that submission does NOT guarantee the issuance of a visa.)
Visa processing normally takes 2-5 business days — I got mine in just 2 days with Universal Holidays.
Also, I was told that if there’s a red sticker at the back of your passport upon pick-up, it means that your application has been denied. (Mine had a white sticker, which was approved).
Looking for Japan Itinerary Ideas?
Come and check out my ‘DIY Japan Itinerary Guide’ post which features detailed day-by-day activities that you could do, no matter the length of your stay!
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» Top Japan Activities «
Kimono Rental
Try out Japan’s traditional kimono for a day!
Robot Restaurant Show
See this famous show in Tokyo!
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Booking Essentials
TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)!
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However, take note a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!
Looking for more travel tips for Japan?
Check out my other detailed Japan travel guides!
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
As a temporary visitor, the Embassy of Japan only grants 15 or 30 days of stay. (If you’re visiting a relative, they can allow up to 90 days).
Single-entry: 90 days upon issue BUT once you enter Japan, you will only be allowed to stay for 15 days only (unless otherwise stated on your visa).
Multiple-entry: 3 to 5 years (sometimes 10) BUT once you enter Japan, you will only be allowed to stay for 15 or 30 days, as dependent on the info stated on your visa.
There seems to be NO existing rule for a “break period” when you want to enter Japan again — however, take note that if you enter the country again too soon, that will raise questions and the immigration might not let you in. Also, take note that you should NOT spend more than 180 days total in a year in Japan as a tourist.
You can apply no earlier than 60 days (2 months) before the date of your intended departure.
To be safe, apply at least 15 working days before the date of your intended departure.
The same process mentioned above. The only documents you don’t need to resubmit are your birth and marriage certificates (unless you are going to apply with a guarantor/sponsor who is a family member, then you will still need to submit a birth/marriage certificate as proof of relationship).
Like I’ve mentioned above, it can take 2-5 working days. I got mine in just 2 days.
Nope. The travel agencies are only there to collect and check your documents. However, it is possible that the Embassy of Japan will request that you visit them for an interview after they receive your documents — but I’ve never heard of such a case when applying for a tourist visa only.
The embassy does NOT require applicants to submit BOOKED roundtrip flight tickets and hotel(s) before applying for a visa. But if in case you want some “peace of mind” and still want to book a hotel to show to the embassy, it’s best to do it with Booking.com or Agoda.com. With them, you can reserve a hotel with NO pre-payment and you can even cancel the booking a day before your arrival with NO cancellation charges at all. For flights, you can get a flight RESERVATION from OneWayFly for a small fee of only Php 1,000~. I highly recommend them because they are fast, easy, and legitimate; plus, I have been using them for years for all of my visa applications! (Read here for more info).
If it can support your application even further, then sure! The Embassy encourages that, especially if it can help provide proof of your economical or social ties within the Philippines (example: pay slips, real estate properties, land title, etc.).
It’s not required, but it’s good practice to provide one. After all, if you can’t provide an ITR or if you’re planning to apply for a multiple entry visa, it’s important to write a letter to explain your situation.
Yes, I have. Check it out here.
Just be honest and explain why. Just make sure you have a strong or reasonable explanation as to why (example: you’re new to your job, you are just newly registered to BIR, etc.). But if you’re nervous about not being able to submit an ITR or if you’re unsure if your reason is enough, you can then choose to take on a guarantor/sponsor for your Japan Visa application.
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However, if you’re a self-employed individual or freelancer who works in the Philippines, it is your obligation to register yourself with BIR to get ITR forms later on. For this, I suggest registering with Taxumo because they can take care of literally everything for you: tax forms, payments, and submissions. I’ve been using them for years now and it has been such a time-saver. Come sign up with my code AILEEN and you can get a 10% discount on all their service plans!
The Japan Embassy did NOT mention any minimum balance requirement, but I have surely heard of someone (and some others) who was (were) granted a visa even with only Php 50,000 in the bank (with a trip that spanned for 5 days) — so let’s use that as a standard. Meanwhile, do take note that your bank certificate will often show the monthly average balance of your savings account; therefore, depositing a sudden large amount of money in order to assist you in your visa application is NOT really a good idea.
Kindly provide an Affidavit of Discrepancy.
It’s not really required. Besides, some travel agencies provide the option of submitting your documents and/or receiving your passports (after application) via courier. Whereas there are travel agencies that may want you all to be there upon submission, and if in case one of you can’t personally come, just provide an Authorization Letter and photocopy of that person’s valid ID.
Sure, but take note: this would mean that he/she should have enough financial capacity and income to prove that he/she can shoulder each and everyone of you.
If you haven’t heard back from the travel agency in 5 days, feel free to call them to follow up.
When a visa is not granted, the reasons for the denial will never be disclosed (yes, even the travel agency would NOT know why). Regrettably, I can’t find any information about making an appeal to the Embassy of Japan. You can, however, apply again after six (6) months with the same purpose of tourist visit — unless there are emergency / humanitarian reasons, or if you want to apply for a different purpose (work, study, etc.).
NOTE: If you’re not a Filipino citizen, you can check this Japan online visa application website for tips!
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As you can see, applying for a Japan Tourist Visa is relatively easy — and I hope the process of preparation becomes absolutely hassle-free with this visa guide.
Let me know how it goes… good luck!
Hi Aileen!
Thank you for your blog! I would like to ask if it will be a big factor for visa approval/denial if I haven’t been out of the country for the last 5 years?
Would you also happen to know if Japan Embassy would be keen on having a differeng employer on the COE compared to ITR? I have recently changed employer hence my latest ITR 2316 (year 2016) would bear my previous employer’s name while my COE would be from my new employee already.
Hoping for your reply. All the best!
Ishie
I don’t think it matters if you haven’t been out of the country the past years. What matters is if you have the documents they need and if you have strong tiees in the Philippines. :)
As for the ITR, just explain your situation and they will understand. Cheers and good luck!
Hello Ishie,
Good day!
We have same situation, i want to know if your visa was approved.
Thank you.
Hi Ms. Aileen,
Last March 6,2017 I applied for tourist visa with guarantor at reli tours in sm megamall, until now processing parin daw yung application ko sa embassy. Do you think may problem sa application ko cause it’s already 2weeks from my application date. Or is it normal? Thank you so much and Godbless.
Hey May! How long was the duration that you requested for? It really depends as well if you are visiting family/relatives since I heard that that often takes longer. Still: I wish the best for you!!
Hi May,
Tanong ko lang kung nakuha mo na result ng application mo?, Nag apply din kasi kami ng tourist visa w/guarantor same w/ your application, 2weeks na rin hanggang ngayon wala pa rin result.
Thank you.
Hello. How is your visa with reli tours?
What happen to your application?how long did you waited to get your pasport? Please response. Same situation :(
Hello Aileen,
I don’t deposit every month to my bank. The amount of money I had in it had been for a year already and was not used. Will it be a big deal for my bank certificate?
Thanks!
I’m not really sure if that matters (it really still all depends with the embassy) but the way I see it, I don’t think it matters as long as you have enough funds to show. Good luck!
Hi very helpful ang blog mo.Thank you for posting this!
BTW,hope you can help us with your advice.I already booked a flight to Fukuoka this June 27th and nagre ready na ako for the visa.I already emailed Friendship for inquiry but hindi pa sila sumasagot ,bka busy pa kasi peak season ngayon ng visa applications for Japan.
So baka makatulong ka,hopefully :)
We are 3 adults (me,my fiancee and mom)and our 2 children (aged 8 months old and a 6yrs old).
Some background of me,I’m a self employed real estate agent and have bank account balance of 100k+ and my ADB is around 75k.May 2 bank accounts pa ako but too low ang balance to consider (around 5k lng).
I have a COR from BIR and will be paying my income tax this week to get the ITR (form 1701Q)
My fiancee would be registering in BIR pa lang so no ITR sya pero hopefully makakuha bago mag April 15 and his bank balance is around 25k and credit card with limit of 50k.
We will be staying around 3 days and 2 nights only and bayad na ang roundtrip planetickets.Nakapag book na din ako ng hotel (with free cancellation)
Questions are:
1.Will I need to provide a guarantee letter for both of my kids?
2.Guarantee letter ba ang isasama ko sa application o Affidavit of Support?
3. My mom don’t have an ITR and her bank certificate is low to consider(around 25k),do I need to provide an Affidavit of Support for her too?
4. The Japanese website said for the bank cert,it must be issued within the past 3 months before departure but in ur blog u said it 2 months.Pakilinaw po sna please,it will be a great help.
5. We have a relative in Osaka (my aunt,my mom’s sister) but we would not be able to visit her kasi Fukuoka ang destination namin,pwede kaya namin siyang gawing Guarantor just to increase our chances to get approved?
6.Can we provide additional requirements like land title,etc?
7.Can we add for bank cert.the credit card of my partner?or they are only asking for savings account?
Thank you so much at hopefully matulungan mo ako sa mga questions ko.I know you are not affliated with the embassy but I guess what you think will matter. :)
Hey there! About your questions:
1. Now that you mention it, I’m not sure how it works for kids. I would think that it’s understandable for the embassy that the kids will be sponsored by their parents. Anyhow, since you say that your mom doesn’t work, I think it makes sense then (if you’re the one who has the bigger income or better financial documents) to provide a guarantee letter.
2. The embassy of Japan only needs a guarantee letter. Use the document format they provided (link above)
3. See my answer under #1
4. Thanks for pointing out the typo. Yes it should be within past 3 months.
5. I think if you have enough financial documents and money to show, you don’t need to get your relative to be your guarantor. It might just complicate things and make you do more requirements/documents.
6. Sure thing. I did that too.
7. The embassy wants bank certificate and not credit card statements. But feel free to provide those too if you want (as long as you make sure you provide bank certificate first and foremost).
Good luck! Hope this helps!
Grabe sobrang complete details., thank u po.
Nag submit ako nang mga requirements sa RELi Moa
Last wednesday March 8, 2017., pero till now march 14 wala paring tawag or txt from RELI TOURS., all I have to do is wait, pero sabi nyo po sa blog na to, that I can call the agency to follow up our application., tomorrow po I will do that., mga what time po ba usually nakaka receive nang txt or call from the agency?
7pax family application nga po pala kami., kinakabahan ako kasi baka hindi kami ma approve.,
Thank u po ulit sa mga advices ☺
God bless
They operate in normal business hours so you can call/text them anytime and I believe they’ll reply the same. Maybe the reason why it’s taking so long for you is because of how many you all are. Anyhow, all the best on the application!