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.
– – –
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.
.
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 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).
.
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.
.
- 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.
.
- 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.
.
- 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.
* * * * * *
(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.
.
- 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).
.
- 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).
.
- 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.
* * * * * *
(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.
.
- 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.
.
- 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.
.
- Proof of Relationship. This can be photos of the 2 of you together, screenshots of chat conversations, or emails.
* * * * * *
(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.
.
- 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.
.
- 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
.
- Proof of Relationship. This can be photos of the 2 of you together, screenshots of chat conversations, or emails.
* * * * * *
(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.
.
- 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.
.
- 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.
.
- 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)
.
- 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)
.
- 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)
.
- 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).
.
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).
– – –
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.
– – –
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
Try out Japan’s traditional kimono for a day!
Robot Restaurant Show
See this famous show in Tokyo!
• • •
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)!
.
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)
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.
.
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!
– – –
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!
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
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!
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! :-)
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!
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!
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!
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!
Nagtataka lang po ako, bakit po kaya P2,000 siningil saken ng Reli Tours last time na nagapply ako for temporary visitors visa.
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!
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!
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!