Filipino citizens need an embassy visa before travelling to Japan.

• Government / consular fee Set by the embassy or consulate. It varies by visa type, number of entries and your nationality.
• Visa centre service fee Charged by the application centre (such as VFS Global) on top of the government fee.
• Courier, SMS & biometrics Optional extras such as passport return by courier are billed separately.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

• Philippine PassportMust be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended period of stay and have at least two blank pages.
• Visa Application FormCompletely filled out and signed. Available for download from the Embassy's website.
• PhotoOne (1) 4.5cm x 4.5cm photo with a white background, taken within the last 6 months.
• Birth CertificateOriginal PSA authenticated copy, issued within one year from the date of application.
• Marriage CertificateOriginal PSA authenticated copy, issued within one year from the date of application (if applicable).
• Daily Schedule in JapanA detailed itinerary outlining your activities, accommodations, and transportation for each day of your trip.
• Bank CertificateOriginal, issued within three months from the date of application, showing sufficient funds for your trip.
• Income Tax Return (ITR)Latest copy (Form 2316).
• Certificate of EmploymentOriginal, for employed applicants, stating position, salary, and length of service.
• Business RegistrationFor business owners (e.g., DTI/SEC registration, Mayor's Permit).
• School CertificateFor students, indicating enrollment and leave of absence if applicable.
• Confirmed Round-trip Flight TicketsWhile not strictly mandatory, providing confirmed flight reservations is highly recommended.
• Confirmed Hotel BookingsWhile not strictly mandatory, providing confirmed accommodation details is highly recommended.

1. 1
   Download and accurately fill out the visa application form from the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines website.

   Visa Application Form
2. 2
   Gather all required documents as specified for your visa type, ensuring they are complete, valid, and meet the Embassy's specifications.
3. 3
   Submit your application and documents to one of the accredited travel agencies by the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines. Direct applications at the Embassy are generally not accepted for Philippine citizens.
4. 4
   Wait for the processing of your visa application. The accredited agency will inform you of the status.
5. 5
   Collect your passport with the visa from the accredited travel agency once processing is complete.

• Incomplete or inconsistent documentation.

  How to avoid: Ensure all required documents are submitted, and information across all forms and supporting papers (e.g., itinerary, employment certificate, bank certificate) is consistent and accurate.

• Insufficient proof of financial means.

  How to avoid: Provide clear and sufficient evidence of funds to cover your entire stay in Japan, such as original bank certificates and the latest income tax returns (ITR). The amount should reasonably support your planned itinerary.

• Unclear or questionable purpose of visit.

  How to avoid: Submit a detailed and realistic daily itinerary, and ensure your stated purpose (e.g., tourism) aligns with the temporary visitor visa category. Avoid vague or implausible plans.

• Previous overstays or visa violations in Japan or other countries.

  How to avoid: Always adhere to visa regulations and authorized stay periods in all countries. A history of overstaying or violating visa terms can lead to future visa rejections.

• Weak ties to your home country.

  How to avoid: Provide documents demonstrating strong ties to the Philippines, such as employment certificates, property ownership, family commitments, or school enrollment, to assure the Embassy of your intent to return.

• Providing false information or forged documents.

  How to avoid: Always be truthful and submit only genuine documents. Any misrepresentation or submission of fraudulent documents can lead to immediate visa refusal and a potential ban from applying for future visas.

• Always carry your passport with you, as it is your primary form of identification.
• Familiarize yourself with basic Japanese etiquette, such as bowing and removing shoes indoors, to show respect.
• Utilize Japan's efficient public transportation system, especially trains, for inter-city travel.
• Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan extensive train travel, but ensure it aligns with your itinerary as it's only for temporary visitors.

• Can I extend my temporary visitor visa while in Japan?

  Generally, temporary visitor visas are not extendable. You must depart Japan before your authorized stay expires. In exceptional humanitarian circumstances, an extension might be considered, but this is rare.

• Am I allowed to work in Japan with a temporary visitor visa?

  No, a temporary visitor visa does not permit any remunerative activities (paid work) in Japan. Engaging in such activities is a violation of your visa conditions.

• Do I need a transit visa if I do not leave the airport?

  If you remain within the international transit area of the airport and do not pass through immigration, a transit visa is generally not required. However, it is advisable to confirm with your airline regarding their specific requirements for layovers.

• What is the required passport validity for applying for a Japanese visa?

  Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in Japan. It must also have at least two blank pages for the visa sticker.

• Can I apply for a Japanese visa directly at the Embassy?

  For Philippine citizens, visa applications for temporary visitor visas are generally accepted only through accredited travel agencies. Direct applications at the Embassy are typically not permitted.

• I was previously denied a visa for Japan, can I reapply?

  Yes, you can reapply for a Japan tourist visa even if you were previously denied. It is important to address the reasons for the previous refusal in your new application. Ensure all required documents are complete and accurately reflect your current situation.

• How much money do I need in my bank account to show for a Japan tourist visa?

  There is no specific minimum bank balance required for a Japan tourist visa. You should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your travel and living expenses during your stay. Accepted proof often includes bank certificates and bank statements.

• I want to travel to Japan next month, is there enough time to get a visa?

  Visa processing times can vary, so applying at short notice for travel next month might be tight. It is highly recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date. Check the current processing times with the accredited travel agencies or the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines.

• I am self-employed, what documents do I need to submit for my Japan visa application?

  As a self-employed applicant, you will need to provide proof of your business registration, such as a DTI or SEC certificate. You should also submit your latest Income Tax Return (ITR) and financial statements. These documents help demonstrate your stable financial standing and ties to the Philippines.

• I am travelling to Japan with my child, do I need to submit extra documents for them?

  Yes, when traveling with a minor child, additional documents are typically required for their visa application. This usually includes their birth certificate and a consent letter from the parent(s) not traveling, if applicable. Always confirm the specific requirements with the accredited travel agency.

• How much does a Japan visa cost for Filipino citizens?

  There are usually two or three separate charges, and people often confuse them. Government / consular fee: Set by the embassy or consulate. It varies by visa type, number of entries and your nationality. Visa centre service fee: Charged by the application centre (such as VFS Global) on top of the government fee. Courier, SMS & biometrics: Optional extras such as passport return by courier are billed separately. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.

• Do I need a separate visa for Tokyo, or does this cover all of Japan?

  You do not need a separate visa for any individual city. Entry rules are set nationally, not city by city, so a Japan visa is valid for the whole country — including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Mount Fuji. Apply once for Japan and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.