Japan Visa Requirements & Application Help

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By TaraKai

Thinking of flying to Japan for a short trip, maybe to see friends, explore the sights, or attend a quick business meeting? Great news—traveling there is pretty easy for Filipinos right now!

If you have a Philippine passport, you can visit Japan without needing a visa for a short stay. That means fewer papers to prepare and more time to focus on your plans. But before you book your flight, make sure you know how long you’re allowed to stay and what documents you should have with you.

This quick guide keeps it simple—no complicated words, no endless lists. Just the important stuff so you can enjoy your Japan trip with no stress.

Do Filipinos need a visa for Japan?

Tokyo Skytree

Yes. If you have a Philippine passport, you need to get a visa before going to Japan.

It’s not hard to apply, but you’ll need a few things ready. Make sure your passport is valid, and have your flight booking and hotel address. If you’re visiting someone, they might need to give you a letter too.

Once you have your visa, you can go and enjoy your trip. Just don’t forget to check the dates so you know how long you can stay.

Visa Tips if You’re Staying in Japan More Than 30 Days

Tokyo Tower

Planning to stay in Japan for a while? If you’re going to be there for more than 30 days, you’ll need to get a visa before you go. The visa-free option is only for short trips.

Here are some visas you can apply for:

👉 Tourist or Visiting Visa – If you want to see friends, family, or travel around Japan for more than a month.
👉 Work Visa – If you already have a job waiting for you in Japan.
👉 Student Visa – If you plan to go to school or university.
👉 Dependent Visa – If you’ll stay with a family member who works or lives there.

Before you apply, make sure you have your passport and all the papers you need. It’s also a good idea to check the latest rules at the Japanese Embassy so you don’t miss anything.

Which Countries Can Visit Japan Without a Visa?

Shinsaibashisuji

If you’re heading to Japan, it’s good to know if you need a visa or not. Many people can enter without one for a short trip. Here’s a simple list to help you plan.

Country/Region

Visa-Free Stay

Notes

USA

90 days

Bring a valid passport

Canada

90 days

Must have a return ticket

UK

90 days

Passport should be valid for your stay

Australia

90 days

Easy entry for short visits

New Zealand

90 days

Bring proof of return or onward travel

South Korea

90 days

No visa needed for tourism or business

Singapore

90 days

Hassle-free for short trips

Malaysia

90 days

Passport must be valid on arrival

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Japan Visa Types

Senso-ji

Not sure what visa you need for your Japan trip? Don’t worry—here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right one, whether you’re visiting for fun, work, study, or to join family.

Visa Type

Who It’s For

Stay Length

What You Should Know

Tourist/Visitor Visa

For travelers, visiting family or friends

Usually up to 90 days

Good for sightseeing, family visits, or short business trips

Work Visa

For people with a job offer in Japan

Based on job contract

You need papers from your employer in Japan

Student Visa

For those going to school or university

Length of the course

Make sure you have your school’s acceptance letter

Dependent Visa

For spouses or kids of people working or studying in Japan

Same as sponsor’s visa

You’ll need proof like a marriage or birth certificate

Business/Investor Visa

For people starting a business or investing in Japan

Varies

You need a clear business plan and investment

Training Visa

For technical training or internships

Usually short-term

Good for job training programs

Working Holiday Visa

For young people (18–30) from certain countries

Up to 1 year

Work and travel at the same time; not yet open to Filipinos

Resident Visa

For long-term stays (work, study, family, etc.)

Long-term

Applied for after approval of the right visa type

👉 Note: Visa rules can change. Always check the latest info from the Embassy of Japan or their official website before you apply.

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Japan Visa Requirements for Filipinos

Shiroi Koibito Park

Planning a trip to Japan for more than 30 days or need a specific visa? Before you apply, make sure you have all your papers ready. These show who you are, why you’re going, and that you can support yourself during the trip. Being prepared will help make the process quicker and easier!

Document

What It Is

Why You Need It

Valid Philippine Passport

Your main ID when traveling

To prove who you are and your nationality

Completed Visa Application Form

Filled-out form for a Japan visa

Gives the details of your trip and purpose

Recent Passport Photo

A clear, recent ID picture

Used for your visa and official records

Proof of Financial Support

Bank statement, payslip, or other proof of income

To show you can pay for your trip and stay in Japan

Flight Ticket (Return or Onward)

Travel booking back home or to your next destination

Proves you plan to leave Japan before your visa expires

Accommodation Info

Hotel booking or address of where you’ll stay

Lets them know where you’ll stay while in Japan

Extra Documents Based on Visa Type

Some visas need a few extra papers. Here’s a quick look at what you might need, depending on the visa you’re applying for:

Visa Type

Extra Papers You May Need

Tourist/Visitor Visa

Travel plan, hotel booking, proof of enough money for the trip

Work Visa

Job offer, contract from your employer in Japan, papers from POEA/DMW

Student Visa

Acceptance letter from your school in Japan, proof you can pay tuition and stay there

Dependent Visa

Marriage certificate or birth certificate, copy of your family member’s visa

Training Visa

Invitation letter from the company or school where you’ll train

Business or Investor Visa

Business plan, proof of funds, company registration papers (if you have them)

How to Apply for a Japan Visa (For Filipinos)

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Planning a trip to Japan? Whether it’s for tourism, work, study, or to visit family, here’s a simple guide to help you apply for a visa without the stress:

1. Know if You Need a Visa

If you have a Philippine passport, you do need a visa to visit Japan—whether it’s for a short or long stay.

2. Prepare Your Documents

Before you apply, make sure you have these ready:

Valid Philippine Passport (should be valid for the length of your stay)
Completed Visa Application Form (you can download and fill it out)
1 Recent Passport Photo (white background, taken in the last 6 months)
Proof of Financial Support (bank statements, payslips, or an affidavit of support)
Flight Booking (return or onward ticket)
Accommodation Details (hotel booking or letter from family/friend if you’re staying with them)
Other documents depending on your visa type (ex. job contract, school acceptance letter, invitation letter)

3. Submit Your Application

You need to apply through an accredited travel agency—Japan does not accept direct visa applications at the embassy. Bring your papers, pay the visa fee, and keep the receipt.

4. Wait for Processing

Processing usually takes about 5 to 7 working days, but it can be longer during busy periods. It’s a good idea to apply early.

5. Get Your Visa

Once your visa is ready, the agency will notify you. Pick up your passport and check the visa details—make sure your name, dates, and other info are correct before your trip!

👉 Tip: Always check the latest rules from the Embassy of Japan or your travel agency before applying.

Japan Visa Fees for Filipinos

Asakusa

If you’re applying for a Japan visa, it’s good to know the fees before you go. This will help you plan your budget. Some visas have a fixed price, and you usually pay when you submit your application at the travel agency. Always keep your receipt, just in case.

💰 Visa Fees

Visa Type

Fee (PHP)

Notes

Tourist / Visitor Visa

₱1,000 – ₱1,500

Short trip to Japan for travel or visiting friends/family

Single-Entry Visa

₱1,000 – ₱1,500

Good for one-time entry only

Multiple-Entry Visa

₱1,200 – ₱2,000

Lets you visit Japan several times

Student Visa

₱1,000 – ₱1,500

For studying at a school or university

Work Visa

₱1,000 – ₱1,500

For people who will work in Japan

Dependent Visa

₱1,000 – ₱1,500

For spouses or kids of people working/studying in Japan

💡 Tips for Payment

When to Pay: Usually when you submit your papers to the agency
How to Pay: Cash is easiest (check with the agency if they take GCash or other options)
Keep the Receipt: Always save your receipt — you may need it later for follow-up

❤Pro Tip: Stay connected effortlessly during your visit by opting for a Japan eSIM. Explore more available plans now!

Safe Travels and See You in Japan! ✈️

Mount Fuji

Whether you’re going to Japan for a holiday, to study, for work, or to see friends and family, we hope this guide made things easier for you. Get your papers ready, follow the steps, and you’ll have a smooth trip.

Before you go, don’t forget:

Book your flight to Japan early to catch the best prices.
Reserve your hotel in Japan so you have a comfy place to stay.
✅ Get a Japan SIM or pocket WiFi at the airport—it’s super helpful for maps, messaging, and looking up places as you travel.

Japan has tasty food, kind people, and so many amazing spots to see. Pack your bags, wear a smile, and get ready for a great trip.

Have a safe flight and enjoy Japan! 🎏

FAQ: Japan Visa

  • How long can I stay in Japan as a tourist?

    You can usually stay up to 15 or 30 days, depending on the visa you’re given.
  • What papers do I need for a Japan tourist visa?

    You’ll need your passport, a completed application form, a recent passport-sized photo, proof of funds like a bank certificate, a return flight booking, and a hotel booking or address where you’ll stay.
  • Can I apply directly at the Japanese Embassy?

    No. Applications must go through accredited travel agencies in the Philippines.
  • Do I need a visa if I’m just transiting through Japan?

    If you stay inside the airport’s international transit area and leave on the next flight, you usually don’t need one. But if you want to go outside or have a long layover, then you’ll need a transit visa.
  • Can I apply for a Japan visa online?

    No. Right now, you must submit your application through an accredited travel agency in the Philippines.
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