How to Apply for a Japan Tourist Visa as a Filipino

Maria Clara

Maria Clara

· 4 min read
Chureito Pagod with Mount Fuji in the background

Medyo madaming requirements, pero don't worry! Here’s a practical and friendly guide to help you get through the process without stress.

Step 1: Gather the Basics

Let’s start with the essentials. Here’s what you need:

  1. Philippine Passport
    • Make sure walang sira (punit, etc.), valid for at least six months, at may two blank pages.
    • Don’t forget to sign it!
  2. Visa Application Form
    • Download the updated form (A4 size) from the Japanese Embassy’s website.
    • Fill it out completely—walang blank spaces! If something doesn’t apply, just write “N/A.”
    • Reminder: Regular pen lang, please. Bawal erasable pens.
  3. Photo
    • Size: 45×35mm (2×1.4 inches) with a white background.
    • Recent photo dapat—taken within the last six months.
    • Write your name and birthday sa likod, then paste it securely on the form.

Step 2: Proof of Finances

To show na afford mo ang trip, you’ll need these:

  • Bank Certificate
    • Original copy showing your average daily balance (ADB) for the last six months.
    • If walang ADB, submit your bank statement along with an explanation letter.
  • Income Tax Return (ITR)
    • Employees: Submit Form 2316 signed by you and your employer.
    • Business owners: Submit your tax payment receipt and certificate.

Step 3: Add Work or School Documents

Depending on your status, here’s what you need to include:

  • For Employees
    • Certificate of Employment with details about your position, salary, and contact info of HR.
  • For Business Owners
    • DTI or SEC registration and Mayor’s Permit.
  • For Students
    • School ID and Certificate of Enrollment.

If hindi ikaw ang magbabayad ng trip mo (Sponsor or Guarantor)

If a family member or friend is shouldering your expenses, submit the following:

  1. Guarantee Letter
  2. Guarantor’s Bank Certificate and ITR
  3. Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificates or photos).

Step 4: Plan Your Itinerary

You’ll need to submit a daily schedule of your trip. Don’t worry, di kailangan super detailed. Just indicate kung saan ka pupunta and the activities you plan to do each day. Eto ang example.

Step 6: Submit your documents sa Accredited Travel Agency

Kapag mag-aapply ka ng Japan tourist visa sa Pilipinas, kailangan dumaan sa isang accredited travel agency. They’ll assist you sa pag-prepare at pag-submit ng documents mo, kaya mas smooth ang process. Para hindi ka mahirapan maghanap, here’s a quick guide with the info you need:

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Tips sa Pagpili ng Agency

  1. Processing Fee: Walang singil ang Japanese Embassy sa mismong visa, pero ang agencies nagcha-charge ng service fee.
  2. Documents: Siguraduhing kompleto ang mga requirements mo, pwede mo din check sa Agency tanungin kung may additional documents na kailangan.
  3. Call or Message First: Para sure sa rates at requirements, kontakin muna ang agency na napili mo bago pumunta.

Special Situations

  1. For Minors (17 and below)
    • Include an authorization letter from parents, copies of their IDs with signatures, and your birth certificate.
  2. If Your Birth or Marriage Certificate is Late Registered
    • Attach supporting documents like your Baptismal Certificate or school records.

Important Reminders

  • Wag kang magbook ng flights or accommodations before your visa is approved. Delays or denials happen.
  • Make sure all documents are A4 size. Photocopy anything that doesn’t fit.
  • Be honest! Submitting fake or incomplete documents will get your application denied.

If you're more of a visual or audio learner, we found this helpful YouTube video (credits to the owner) that might be useful for you!

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With this guide, madali mong maikumpara ang mga agencies at piliin ang swak sa budget at location mo. Good luck sa visa application mo, at enjoy planning your trip to Japan! 🌸

Maria Clara

About Maria Clara

Maria is a passionate Filipino travel blogger in her mid-30s. With a love for exploring new cultures and capturing the beauty of the world through her camera lens, Maria shares her adventures and travel tips with her readers. Her blog focuses on providing practical advice and inspiration for fellow travelers, especially those from the Philippines, as they navigate the wonders of Japan and beyond. Whether she's exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo or enjoying the serene beauty of Kyoto's temples, Maria's goal is to inspire others to embark on their own journeys and discover the joy of travel.