Considering a trip to Japan? You may be appealed by the cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, or cutting-edge technology of Japan and eager to have a trip on it. Before beginning your Japanese journey, it is essential for you as a citizen of the Philippines to be aware of the necessity of Japan visas and the procedures involved. The post here aims to provide an ultimate overview of the Japanese visa requirements for Filipino citizens. Check all the crucial information for applying for a Japan visa.
What is a Japan Visa for Citizens of the Philippines?
A Japan visa for citizens of the Philippines refers to the Japanese government permitting citizens of the Philippines to enter, remain, or temporarily visit Japan for a variety of reasons, including tourism, commerce, education, or employment. This visa is required for Philippine nationals who intend to go to Japan and stay for a certain time beyond the allowed visa-free stay, or for those who intend to engage in specific visa-required activities.
Types of Japan Visa for Citizens of the Philippines
Considering that you may have different purposes for going to Japan as a Philippines citizen, there are different types of Japanese visas for you to apply for. Generally, these types of Japanese visas are available for Filipino citizens:
- Tourist visa. A tourist visa allows you to stay a short term in Japan as a traveler.
- Visa for visiting friends or distant relatives. This kind of Japan visa is to visit those who live in Japan.
- Visa for business purposes. If you want to attend business conferences, commerce, and other business activities, you can apply for this type of visa.
- Transit visa. When you need to pass by Japan when going back and forth to other countries, you can apply for this transit visa from Japan.
- Single-entry tourist visa for Philippine nationals on package tours. If your travel is organized by a tour group, then this kind of visa is suitable.
Apart from the above common Japan visa for Filipinos, there are also specific visa types for different groups of visitors:
- Visa for medical treatment.
- Visa for application with a certificate of eligibility.
- Visa for attending meetings held by non-profit/non-government organizations.
- Visa for the spouse of a Japanese national.
- Official/Diplomat visa.
- Visa for house servants hired by officials or diplomats.
Japan Tourist Visa Requirements
For ordinary people, the Japan tourist visa is a perfect option if you want to stay a short time in Japan. It is easier to apply for than other types of Japanese visas. Check those Japan tourist visa requirements in the following:
- Philippines passport. You must have a valid passport issued by the Philippines, with at least 6 months remaining validity and two blank pages for stamps. Check that your passport is not damaged and that you have a signature on the third page.
- Japan visa application form. You can obtain the Japan visa application form from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan official site. Print it as A4 paper and fill out the form using a black pen with no mistakes as possible as you can. Use double-line strikethroughs to rectify any errors you may have made and start over if you make multiple mistakes.
- Proof of your PSA birth certificate. This document must be issued within the last one year.
- Passport photo. It must be taken within the last 6 months. In addition, your passport-size photo must be compliant with these requirements: 4.5cm x 4.5cm in size, in color, plain white or light-colored background with no clutter and shadow, neutral facial expression, and plain clothes.
- PSA marriage certificate (If you have one).
- Daily schedule in Japan.
- Proof of your finances. Proof that you can afford a journey in Japan,
- Bank certificate (issued within last 3 months)
- Income tax return (ITR Form 2316)
- Other critical supplementary documents. (You’d better check the Japanese embassy or consulate official site to check more details)
Cost and Processing Time for the Japan Tourist Visa for Filipino Citizens
The application process for a Japan Tourist Visa might take months. The Japanese embassy or consulate-general examines your application in about a week, but this can take longer if you need to submit additional documents. The process may also take longer if inquiries are made to Tokyo’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Standard processing of Japanese tourist visas for Filipino citizens takes 30 days and is $122.99 USD. This covers the USD 21 visa application charge as well as the iVisa processing fee.
How to Complete a Japan Visa Application as a Filipino Citizen
To successfully accomplish a Japan visa application as a Filipino citizen, you can follow these steps below:
Step 1. Obtain the Japan visa application form, then print it and fill it out by hand. Make sure you have answered all questions on that form.
Step 2. Prepare the required Japan visa requirement documents mentioned above.
Step 3. Go to the Japanese embassy or consulate to apply for a Japanese tourist visa. But you have to note that they do not always accept applications. If they don’t, you can also apply for a Japan visa at an accredited travel agency.
Step 4. Wait for the visa process, it normally takes about a month.
Notice: After you apply for a Japan visa application, there is a chance that your application will be rejected. Avoid the following incorrect operations that may cause your application rejected:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information you provided in the application form.
- Incomplete support documents.
- Insufficient finances.
- Previous visa violations.
- Criminal history.
- Suspicion of illegal activity.
- Indications you’re trying to stay in Japan for a long time illegally.
The Bottom Line
This article addresses the Japanese visa requirements for Filipino citizens. To successfully obtain the Japan tourist visa, it is advised that you read the Japan visa requirements listed here carefully. And prepare the required documents one by one. Make sure all the information and supporting materials are complete. Good luck for you to apply for a Japan visa successfully.
Dolores Xiao