Japan Visa Application Requirements for Filipino Tourists in Manila, Philippines (Single / Multiple Entry)

by Japan, Visa Guides & Immigration524 comments

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!)

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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.

– – –

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

* * * * * *

(Section B) Japan Tourist Visa WITH Non-Japanese Guarantor/Sponsor LIVING IN the Philippines

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(Section C) Japan Tourist Visa WITH Japanese Guarantor/Sponsor LIVING IN Japan

* * * * * *

(Section D) Japan Tourist Visa WITH Non-Japanese Guarantor/Sponsor LIVING IN Japan

* * * * * *

(Section E) Japan Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

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).

– – –

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).

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.

– – –

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!

• • •

» Top Japan Activities «

Kimono Rental

Kimono Rental
Try out Japan’s traditional kimono for a day!

Robot Restaurant Show

Robot Restaurant Show
See this famous show in Tokyo!

• • •

Booking Essentials

Book an AirBnB
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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!

• • •

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Multiple Entry Japan Visa
How long can I stay in Japan with a Japan Tourist Visa?

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).

How long is the visa for Japan valid for?

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.

If I have a multiple entry tourist visa, how long until I can re-enter Japan again after a trip?

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.

When is the earliest time that I can apply for a Japan Visa?

You can apply no earlier than 60 days (2 months) before the date of your intended departure.

When is the latest time that I can apply for a Japan Visa?

To be safe, apply at least 15 working days before the date of your intended departure.

I was granted a Japan Visa before, what process do I have to follow to renew my Japan Visa?

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).

How long does it take for a Japan Visa to be released?

Like I’ve mentioned above, it can take 2-5 working days. I got mine in just 2 days.

Will there be a formal interview for my visa application?

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.

Do I need to book accommodation and plane tickets by the time I send in my application?

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).

Can I submit other documents not listed above?

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.).

Do I need to provide a cover letter?

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.

Do you have an example cover letter?

Yes, I have. Check it out here.

What do I say if I don’t have an ITR with BIR?

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!

How much money should I have in the bank?

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.

What if there’s a problem with the spelling of my name/birthday on my Birth Certificate and Passport?

Kindly provide an Affidavit of Discrepancy.

I will be traveling with my family/friends, are we all required to be there at the travel agency when submitting our documents?

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.

Can one person among my family/friends be our overall guarantor/sponsor? We are all traveling to Japan together, and applying for a Japan Visa together.

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.

How can I follow up on my application?

If you haven’t heard back from the travel agency in 5 days, feel free to call them to follow up.

My Japan Visa application was denied. Is there anything I can do?

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!

– – –

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!

• • •

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524 Comments

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  1. Christopher owens

    Hello, as an American citizen married to a Filipina, would she need a visa for transiting through Japan with me? She does not have her U.S. Passport yet and we will be visiting Leyte in approximately 2 months and depending on the ticket prices we might have to go through Japan. Thanks for your information, I will wait for your reply…Chris

    Reply
    • Aileen

      Hey Christopher, I believe that if it’s only transit (she won’t go outside the airport), then she doesn’t need to apply for a Japan visa. Enjoy your trip!

      Reply
  2. Allen

    Hi Aileen, pretty helpful guide here :) Anyway, should the guarantor be also traveling with those whom he/she “guarantees”? Haha. I’ll be traveling Japan with my sister only and I think we have a sufficient amount in our bank certificate but, just to be on the safe side, we might ask our mom to shoulder part of our expenses. Although in reality, that will just be a fallback should we really, really, really need extra money.

    Also, what if we already booked our flights and hotel? Do you think they consider that when assessing one’s financial capacity? Haha. Sana they expect less in our bank accounts since we already booked these two major expenses lol.

    Thank you in advance for your reply! :-)

    Reply
    • Aileen

      Hey Allen! No, your guarantor/sponsor doesn’t necessarily have to travel with you. Their important role is justifying their financial capacity and declaring that they’ll support you _ that’s all :) It’s always okay too to give your own financial documents as added strength, so sure thing. :D

      As for booked hotels and flights, it can help. You also need to prove that you have strong ties in the Philippines (in the form of work, school, etc.).

      Good luck!

      Reply
  3. Carmela

    Hi!

    Just got my visa this morning, and i would like to thank you dahil isa ang blog mo sa paulit ulit kong binasa to guide me. Baka may same scenario ng saken, pampalakas ng loob.

    I’m employed since 2013, may stamps ako sa passport ko and it was my recent indochina trip (nitong last week of july lang). I’m single, female and 30 years young and will travel to Japan solo. Ito ung requirements na hinanda ko.

    1. Passport – kakarenew ko lang nung June at 2022 pa ang expiration so wala akong problem with the 6 months expiration limit. Ayun na nga ang stamps ko is from my Vietnam-Cambodia-Thailand trip last July.

    2. Application form – wala ako tiwala sa handwriting ko kaya pinush ko talaga na sa computer magfill-up ng form. Wala kami computer sa bahay so computer shop ang next option ko. Iwas ako sa piso print knowing the quality of their paper. Sa computer shop ako sa Farmers Mall nagfill up ng form, di ko na inisip kung mahal basta ung quality ang habol ko. Ang diskarte ko para di ako gaano magtagal sa shop is dinownload ko muna ung form sa phone ko at gumawa ng draft (handwritten), para pagdating sa shop, type na lang ng type. Pero hindi naman pala ganun kamahal, crisp at maganda quality ng print, malinaw at mukhang talagang malinis tignan.

    3. Picture – sa gateway mall naman ako nagpapicture, basta sabihin lang na for japan visa, i spent 140 for the picture then again, ang goal ko is ung visa kaya di ko na inisip ung price. Pag mga professional alam na nila kung ano dapat gawin, i even ask if puede ngumiti, she answered no. Kung gusto nio makatipid ng 40 pesos, magsuot na kayo ng may collar na damit para no need na magphotoshop ng collar sa pic ninyo.

    4. Itinerary – my iti is for five days, mostly Osaka and day tour in Kyoto. Napakasimple ng itinerary ko, if you want to ask for a copy, email me at [email protected] . Napakasimple niya lang, natawa nga ako sa ginawa kong iti. Kasi first day is arrival, 3 days is touring famous sites and 5th day is departure.

    5. Latest ITR, COE and payslip for the last month- the company i’m working for ay may website na where you can get all three, no need to go to HR, i couldn’t say they are original kasi sa computer shop ko rin lang pinaprint tong tatlo (kasabay nung visa application form and itinerary). ITR and Payslip are standard format, sa COE (Certificate of employment) ay ito lang ang pinili ko ilagay; Hire date; Role and annual compensation.

    6. Birth Certificate (without the receipt) – i ask my father to get me one while i’m on my indochina trip. Nagworry ako sa part na to because naitapon ko ung resibo, eh nabasa ko sa ibang blog, need ang resibo. But anyway sabi ko makikita naman sa barcode kaya i push through. I think readable naman B.C. ko because inapprove naman ang visa ko.

    7. Bank Certificate – i have a one year old account with bpi family. Personal account ko siya not my payroll account. Up and down ang pagiipon ko sa account na to. The bank certificate showed my money (6x,xxx) and average daily balance of around 14K.

    All of the documents above are printed in A4 size paper except birth certificate and bank certificate, ung original ang sinubmit ko.

    Ngayong monday lang ako nagsubmit ng documents sa reli tours sa megamall, the staff will check your documents and ask to sign where it is needed to sign, sila na rin ang nagpaste ng picture ko sa application form, yung picture pala is need na may name ang birthday sa likod. In my case di ako mapakali na wala akong pirma sa 2316 ko, so i ask the staff if need ba pirmahan yung form 2316, umayon na lang siya sakin at pinirmahan ko. I paid 950 and the nerve wracking waiting time starts. Kada notify na may nagtext sa phone ko tumataas ata pressure ng dugo ko hahaha, anyway, wednesday night (around 6 p.m.) i received a text from reli tours na for pick up na ang passport ko. So kaninang umaga, nangangatal pa ko na kinuha ang passport ko (expecting the worst), but it got approved !!! I was so happy!!! Makakapunta na kong Japan, one of my dreamplace

    I notice sa visa ko, issue date is august 8, mabilis lang pala. I submitted the documents august 7, it was probably approved august 8, naforward siguro sa reli tours ng august 9 and notified me kinagabihan, for me to pick up august 10. I’m just grateful sa advent ng information and communication technology para makahanap ng guides online. Thanks again!

    Reply
    • Greg

      Finally, I found something similar to my situation. I have read a lot of blogs na pero I do not have enough info regarding bank statement. Ang worry ko is that I have a 6 month old account (actually 5 months and 23 days). Hindi biglaan ang savings ko dito so on the 6th month i have made a total of 70K total savings (balance) with ADB of 21K. Yung worry ko is yung ADB since I felt sobrang layo from the balance and there was one blog I have read na 40K dapat and ADB (though it wasn’t that sure naman) I have a permanent job and 3 years na ako sa current company ko. I am single, 27, and has travelled to SG and HK na rin for the past 2 years. I have ITR din. Salamat at medjo tumaas yung confidence ko sa nabasa kong ito from you Carmela. Sana ma approve ako– I will be submitting all my docu next week. Fingers crossed :) Thanks, Carmela!

      Reply
      • Aileen

        Rest assured, I applied before too with a new account (6-month old too!) and my visa was approved. We can never really know how the Embassy does the intricacies of analyzing financial background, but I think you should be fine — I hope so! Good luck!

        Reply
  4. Capanasmaryrose

    Nagtataka lang po ako, bakit po kaya P2,000 siningil saken ng Reli Tours last time na nagapply ako for temporary visitors visa.

    Reply
    • Aileen

      Sorry to hear that. I’m not sure why it’s suddenly that big of an amount. You can ask them again and clarify the breakdown of that cost especially if it’s only you (1 pax) that’s applying. Hope you get it sorted out!

      Reply
  5. Cass

    Hi Aileen, helpful ng blog mo, :) but my problem is, wala kasi akong ITR dahil housewife na ako for 2years, pero ako kasi ang mag-ga guarantor sa anak kong 1year old. papasa na lang sana ako ng payslips ni hubby and bank cert ko proof lang na meron akong enough income to provide our expenses during our travel this sept. by the way, kami lang ni baby ang pupunta sa Japan. :) what to do think Ma’am? Thanks in advance!

    Reply
    • Aileen

      Hey Cass, you can also make your husband as the guarantor if in case you don’t have ITR. You can also provide your financial statements too for added proof and you an also explain why you can’t provide an ITR in a letter. Hope this helps! Good luck!

      Reply
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