Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan is every Filipino traveler’s dream; where it is a must-visit destination for every Filipino traveler. Japan has been one of the most sought-after tourist destinations for Filipinos. From the iconic cherry blossoms in spring to the snow-covered landscapes in winter, Japan’s scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.
However, for Philippine passport holders, you need to apply for a Japan tourist visa. Applying for a Japan tourist visa is not as tough as you think. In this article, here’s a guide on how to apply for a Japan tourist visa for Filipinos.
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Japan Tourist Visa Requirements for Filipinos
If you’re applying for a Japan tourist visa, make sure that you complete all the required documents that are needed for your application. Here are some of the documents that you need to prepare for your smooth Japan tourist visa application:
- Completed visa application form.
Make sure you fill in all the details or information in the application form. If the information being asked is not applicable, you may write “N/A” or you can just leave it blank. Make sure to write legibly and correctly. You may download the application form here.
- Valid passport.
Ensure that your passport is still valid for the next six months and is in good condition. Kindly double check if your passport has at least two blank pages.
- Passport-size photo.
For your Japan tourist visa application, you will need to have at least a 4.5cm x 4.5cm photo with a white background, taken no longer than six months before your application.
- PSA Birth Certificate with receipt.
If you’re applying for a tourist visa in Japan for the first time, you must submit a valid PSA birth certificate. If you still don’t have a copy of your PSA certificate, you can request a copy for yours through PSA online application.
- Daily Japan Itinerary
Upon application, it i required to submit your daily Japan itinerary. This must include your intended length of stay, your accommodation, and your daily activities throughout your Japan trip.
- Financial Documents
You must submit a copy of your bank certificate showcasing the total amount of your bank account including its Average Daily Balance (ADB) for six months.
- Income Tax Return
- For employed applicants.
Ensure to provide a copy of your income tax return from your employer. You can submit your ITR Form (2316).
- For freelancers.
You can submit a copy of your 1701 income tax return which can easily requested from your nearby BIR office or where your business is registered. Along with a copy of your ITR, you can submit a copy of your business registration and certificate.
- Applicants w/o ITR.
If you are unable to submit an Income Tax Return, you can provide a cover letter explaining why you don’t have an ITR.
Visit the Accredited Travel Agency
Once you have completed all the requirements needed for your Japan tourist visa application, you must visit an accredited travel agency so they can start processing your application. Submit your visa application through an accredited travel agency appointed by the Embassy of Japan. Here are some of the accredited travel agencies where you can process your application:
- Friendship Tours
- Attic Tours Phils.
- Discovery Tour
- Rajah Travel Corporation
- Reli Tours and Travel Agency
- UHI (Universal Holidays)
Based on my experience, I processed my visa application with Attic Tours (MOA branch). The visa fee for a single-entry application costs Php 1,200.
Essential Travel Guide & Tips
- Make sure to print the application form on A4 paper only.
- Avoid messy corrections especially if you’re writing by hand.
- Provide a cover letter, especially if you are unable to provide some documents needed for your tourist visa application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to get approved for a Japan tourist visa?
For Philippine passport holders, applying for a Japan tourist visa is fairly easy and pretty straightforward. Just make sure that all the provided information you present to the Japan embassy is valid and matched to every document you have submitted.
How much bank balance is required for a Japan tourist visa?
Take note that there’s no required bank balance for a Japan tourist visa application. However, your ideal bank balance must be suitable for your intended length of stay in Japan. For instance, if you’re traveling to Japan for 5 days, you must have at least Php 50,000 in your bank account.
Do I need to book a flight ticket for Japan tourist visa?
No. It’s not required to book a flight. You may either book a flight to Japan once your visa is approved.
How long is the process for a Japan tourist visa application?
The tourist visa application processing usually takes about 3-5 days, but sometimes can take longer depending on the number of applicants or the documents you have submitted to the embassy.
How much is the Japan tourist visa application fee?
The Japan tourist visa application fee depends on which accredited travel agency you have applied to. For Attic Tours, the processing fee costs Php 1,200 for a single-entry visa application.
Japan Tourist Visa Application Checklist for Filipinos
Make your Japan travel dreams come true! If you’re traveling to Japan anytime soon, this ultimate Japan tourist visa application guide is for you!
Hey, my name is Ara Patria—a solo female traveler who is in her quest of traveling the world. I write and learn about life through the lenses of my camera, personal experiences, and adventures. Join me as I unravel the mystery of life through exploring the wanders of the world.