To say that Japan is my favorite destination would be a major understatement. I’m writing this post while taking a break from packing my bags for my seventh trip to the Land of the Rising Sun. Let that sink in. This is my seventh trip in a span of 4 years. That’s two trips a year.
Before I continue, I want to make it clear that I am not affiliated with the Japanese Embassy in any way. A good fraction of the messages we receive are about Japan visa, so to avoid having to repeat myself every day, I’m writing this post so I have a ready page to which I can redirect our readers. This is all based on my experience, having been given a total of four Japan visas over the past few years. For context:
- My first Japan visa allowed only single entry, as expected.
- The second time I applied, I was expecting another single-entry visa, but I was provided a multiple one, valid for three years. I didn’t do anything. The itinerary I submitted clearly called for a one-time entry and I didn’t have that much money in the bank at the time, but they gave me multiple.
- When it expired earlier this year, I thought I would be given another multiple. But when I applied for the third time, to my surprise and dismay, I was given a SINGLE-ENTRY visa. It was so puzzling. I have a theory, which I will explain later.
- The fourth Japan visa I got, the one I received just last week, was MULTIPLE-ENTRY, valid for five years! Woohoo!
- I also took care of the visas of my mom, niece, and nephew, when we went on a family trip last year.
So here are the questions we usually get from our readers who are planning on lodging a Japan visa application, together with our answers.
Oh before I forget: This post is for tourists holding a Philippine passport, applying in Manila. Rules may be different in other cities and for other nationalities.
JAPAN VISA RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS FOR TOURISTS
They don’t call it “renewal.” It’s more like applying for a new visa, to be honest. The process is still the same. The only difference is, you don’t need to submit a birth certificate this time. You also have to submit a copy of your previous visas.
- Philippine passport. Must be valid for another 6 months or more. Must have a signature and at least 2 blank pages.
- Accomplished visa application form. Don’t leave any fields blank. Just put N/A if not applicable. Download here.
- ID photo. 4.5cm x 4.5 cm. Write your name and birthdate on the back side. Paste it on the application form.
- Copy of previous Japan visas. Original (on the passport) and photocopy on A4 paper.
- Daily itinerary or schedule in Japan. Printed on A4 paper. Download the format here.
- IF APPLYING AS A GROUP/FAMILY: Accomplished list of Visa Applicants. Only if traveling as family or group. Printed on A4 paper. You can download the form here.
- IF WITHOUT GUARANTOR. If you will shoulder part or all of your travel expenses, you must provide the following:
– Income tax return (ITR Form 2316). Clear photocopy.
– Bank certificate. Must be issued within the past 3 months.
– Certificate of Employment. Not a requirement but strongly recommended. - IF WITH GUARANTOR. If a guarantor will sponsor your trip, you will need to provide the following additional documents. Note that this only applies if the guarantor lives in the Philippines:
– Guarantee Letter. Must explain your guarantor’s relationship to you and their contact details.
– Proof of relationship between applicant and guarantor. For example, if the guarantor is a parent or a close relative, submit their birth certificate too.
– Bank Certificate of the Guarantor. Original copy.
– Income Tax Return (ITR Form 2316) of the Guarantor. Photocopy.
Again, documents to be printed out must be done on an A4-size paper. Other sizes will not be accepted.
We have a more detailed list of requirements and step-by-step guide here: JAPAN TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS.
Just remove the birth certificate and marriage certificate and add a copy of previous visas to the list, and it’s basically the same set of requirements and process.
JAPAN VISA RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS FOR VISITING FRIENDS OR RELATIVES
If you’re applying to VISIT FRIENDS / RELATIVES, you can find the list of requirements here: JAPAN VISIT VISA REQUIREMENTS.
Just remove the birth certificate and marriage certificate and add a copy of previous visas to the list, and it’s basically the same set of requirements and process.
However, please note that if you’re visiting a close relative, you might still need to submit a birth certificate and/or marriage certificate to prove your relationship.
HOW TO RENEW JAPAN VISA
Gather all the required documents. You’ll find the list above or in our dedicated posts.
- Choose an accredited travel agency. All tourist and visitor visa applications must be coursed through any of the agencies designated by the Japanese Embassy. See the list of agencies here.
- Submit the requirements. Every agency has their own sets of rules when processing applications. Some require personal appearance, some don’t. Some have limits on how soon the trip is, some don’t. The officer hours also vary. Call your chosen agency beforehand.
- Pay the Processing Fee. Technically, the visa is FREE, but the agency charges a service fee or processing fee. The rate is different from agency to agency but it’s usually around P800 – P1600 for tourist visa, and P1200 – P2500 for visitor visa.
- Claim your passport. Processing normally takes 3-5 days, but there are instances wherein it takes a lot longer, sometimes weeks. Thus, make sure you apply weeks before your trip. Depending on your arrangement with the agency, your passport with the visa (if approved) either will be mailed to you or must be claimed at their office.
If your passport has a Japan visa, it means your application has been approved.
If you can’t find a visa, it means your application is denied.
Other Frequently Asked Questions about Japan Visa
Am I eligible for a multiple-entry visa?
- A person who has travelled to Japan as temporary visitor within the last three years AND has sufficient financial capability to support their trip.
- A person who has travelled to Japan as temporary visitor within the last three years AND has travelled as temporary visitor to G7 countries (excluding Japan) several times within the last three years. The other G7 countries are: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (USA).
- A person who has high financial capacity (but has not been to Japan in the past 3 years). The keywords here are HIGH FINANCIAL CAPACITY.
- Immediate family member (Spouse/Child) of a person who has high financial capacity.
How to apply for a multiple-entry visa? What are the requirements?
We also have a dedicated post for that. You’ll find that here:
Are non-first-timers granted multiple-entry visas automatically?
No, not necessarily.
It’s true that the Embassy sometimes grant MULTIPLE-ENTRY visas to returning tourists even when they’re not asking for it. It happened to me twice. But it doesn’t mean it happens to everyone every time.
If you look at my Japan visa history at the beginning of this post, you’ll find that I was given a SINGLE-ENTRY visa after my THIRD application, even after having been granted a MULTIPLE-ENTRY visa before. It’s unpredictable because they’re basing it on many factors. It’s still at the sole discretion of the Embassy.
What does Japan visa look like?
Like this:
Do I need a travel agency to apply?
Yes. Unless it’s a special case, all visa applications must be coursed through any of their accredited travel agencies.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
No. It’s not a requirement. However, on the application form, you will have to write down the specific AIRLINE or SHIP you wish to take. If you don’t have much funds in the bank, write a low-cost carrier like JetStar or Cebu Pacific Air.
Do I need to reserve hotels before applying?
No. But again, you should have an idea where you plan on staying because you will need to write it down on the application form. Make sure you have the name of the hotel, the address, and the phone number. You don’t need to book yet. Just pick a hotel.
Again, if your bank account doesn’t have much, choose a budget hotel or hostel. Don’t write down the name of a luxury hotel if you have less than P100,000 in your bank and you’re staying for 15 days. Make sure you can afford it because it matters!
Should I stay in the hotel I wrote on the application form?
No. If your application is approved, you can stay anywhere.
How long does it take to process the application?
7 working days, according to travel agencies.
But it varies. My first time, 5 working days. Second time, 2 days. Third time, 7 days. Fourth time, 2 days.
A friend of mine waited for 3 weeks.
You can never tell.
How long can I stay in Japan if I am granted a visa?
Single-entry: 15 days, usually.
Multiple-entry: 15 or 30 days.
How long is the validity of the visa?
Single-entry: 90 days.
Multiple-entry: 3-5 years.
Note that validity is different from length of stay. Validity period usually refers to the period in which you can use the visa. Length of stay is how many days you can stay once in Japan.
For example, usually, a single-entry visa is valid for 90 days, allowing no longer than 15 days of stay. This means that if your visa is issues in January 1, you can travel to Japan any time until March, but once you’re in Japan, you can only stay for up to 15 days.
How much money should my bank account have to get approved?
The Embassy doesn’t explicitly say how much money you should have in the bank. The amount isn’t the only factor. It’s probably on a case-by-case basis.
I have applied for a 15-day stay with only P100,000+ in the bank and my application got approved.
A friend of mine applied for a 5-day stay with only P50,000 and got approved. She has a full-time job.
Another friend applied for a 5-day stay with over P200,000 and got denied. She doesn’t have a regular job.
I think the rule of thumb is: how much savings you have should be proportional to how long your stay is. For example, if you have only P50,000, don’t apply for a 15-day stay because that would obviously raise a lot of questions regarding whether or not you can afford the trip.
Also, I think the Embassy is more concerned about whether or not you have a compelling reason to return to the Philippines, which is why they scrutinize your employment status and travel history.
I’m a freelancer so I don’t have a Certificate of Employment. What can I submit?
The Certificate of Employment is no longer a requirement, although it is always a good idea to submit one. If you’re a freelancer, here’s what you can do.
Get a letter from your clients that could serve as certification that you’re working for them. Make sure that the letter mentions what you do for the company, how much you’re earning, and how long you have been working for them.
I have tried it before. The agency accepted it. The embassy approved my application.
I don’t have an ITR. What should I do?
Write a letter explaining why you can’t produce an ITR and submit more proof that you have a stable source of income (invoices, payslips, other tax documents, etc).
You can also declare that someone else will be paying for your trip, whom they call a “sponsor.” If you choose to do this, you will need to submit the ITR, COE or business registration documents, and bank certificate of the sponsor.
I haven’t done this personally because I always have an ITR even during the time I was a freelancer, but I know people who have done this and were granted a visa.
UPDATE: Okay, I was able to try applying without an ITR during my last visa application. I wrote a letter explaining that I wouldn’t be able to submit my latest ITR because I recently shifted to becoming an entrepreneur and I won’t have a copy of my ITR until the end of the year. I then added that I’m submitting a copy of my ITR for the previous year together with COE from my clients and my business registration docs.
Can I apply just one week before my intended date of travel?
You can, but it’s too close. There’s no assurance you will have your passport with or without visa in time.
It is always good practice to apply at least a month before your travel date so you have time in case they ask for additional documents.
Some travel agencies like Reli Tours also have a policy of refusing applicants whose travel dates are set sooner than 7 working days from the date of application. Happened to my cousin.
Can someone else apply for me?
It depends on a lot of things: which travel agency you’re applying at, how you’re applying, and what your background is.
For example, based on my experience, Reli Tours and Friendship Tours require personal appearance for walk-in applicants. I have tried applying for my cousin at Reli Tours SM Megamall and they won’t accept the application. Our accountant also tried applying for my mom at Friendship Tours at Dusit Thani Makati but she was told that my mom had to be there in person. She was also told that we could just mail the application instead if personal appearance was impossible.
However, on a separate occasion, my cousin was allowed to apply for my niece (a minor) at Reli Tours Southmall even when the kid wasn’t with her. It might be because of two things: because my niece was a minor and because they were traveling together (group).
I’m not sure if it’s the same for all travel agencies or for all branches. IF some of them allow it, make sure you have a signed authorization letter, ID of the applicant, ID of the representative, and proof of your relationship with them.
Best to just call your chosen travel agency to be sure.
I need to explain something. Will they accept a cover letter?
Yes. I did once. They accepted it.
Can I submit a birth certificate issued more than a year ago?
NO. The birth certificate MUST be issued within the past year. You cannot fake your way around it. The issue date is printed at the bottom of the birth certificate so both the agency and the embassy can easily figure out how old your copy is.
How much is the Japan visa fee?
Technically, FREE. But the travel agency collects a processing fee, usually playing between P800 to P1800 depending on the visa type.
What is the address of the Japan Embassy in Manila?
2627, Roxas Blvd, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila, Philippines
How will I know if my visa application is rejected?
Your passport will be returned to you. If there is no visa affixed to any of the pages, your application has been denied.
Will I know the reason for the denial?
No, they will not provide a reason or any sort of explanation.
If my application is denied, can I apply again?
Yes, but you have to wait 6 months before you can apply again.
I was previously issued a single-entry Japan visa and I used it already. How soon can I apply again?
Anytime. There is no time frame required if you’ve already used your visa. You can apply again as soon as you want. I’ve done that between my 3rd and 4th visa. I used my visa in February, but I needed to be back in March. I applied again, no problem.
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Is this post helpful to you?
Hi, my passport’s about to expire within the next few months. I was wondering if the multiple-entry visa in my expiring passport can be transferred to the new passport? Will that visa still be valid or do I have to apply for a new one?
HELLO WHAT TO BRING DURING THE TRAVEL TO JAPAN EXCEPT FOR YOUR PASSPORT AND VISA?
Ideally, you should have a return ticket and proof of accommodations, in case they ask for them. :)
Hello! Ask ko lang if pwede umuwi ng Pilipinas kapag nabigyan na ng three year visa? Kasi mageexpire na yung one year visa this coming September and I went back to Japan before the expiration date. If ever po na mabigyan ako ng three year visa, pwede ba ako ulit umuwi ng Pinas? Will surely wait for your reply. Thank you! :))
Hi good day. How soon can we apply kung mag e-expire na yung Japan visa? Ours will be up to March 5, 2020. Let’s say, mag travel po kmi ng March 7, can we apply for a renewal kahit di pa expired ang visa namin during the time ng application? Thanks po in advance.
Hi Krys! Even if the passport is expired, any valid visa in it remains so and can still be used. Just bring BOTH your passports when you travel to Japan, and tell the Officer that your visa is in the old one. It happened to me too! :)
Hi. My case is the same, valid ME visa in an expired passport, with newly acquired one. Does the Philippine immigration know about this rule pertaining to exit from the Philippines for entry to Japan? What was your experience? Thanks in advance.
Hi, yep! I asked the staff at DFA myself and I had been using my ME visa on an old passport for 3 years (over 5 trips to Japan) and never had any issue with Philippine or Japan Immigration.
Hi. I have the same case. But my old passport and my valid ME Japan Visa in it are both under my maiden name. My new passport is now under my married name. Do you think I can still use my valid ME Japan Visa?
Hi Chel, were you able to travel with your ME visa in your maiden name? And your passport with married name?
Hi! Can I apply for a single-entry visa months before my trip (say 6 months before)? Or it has to be closer to the date of the trip? Thanks.
Not the OP but the validity of a SE visa is 3 months. That’s why agencies recommend applying for visa 1-3 months before your trip.
10 days before your flight is ok
You must apply by monday in any japan embassy accredited agencys and by thursday or wed you will notify via text to pick up your passport this is base on my experience goodluck
HI. Im planning to apply for japan visa but i have no work so i cant produce ITR or payslip but my aunt will provide my ticket and my stay in japan even my bank, my aunt will deposit enough amount to my bank for bank certificate puposes. But still i am in doubt if i will be granted of japan visa. Do you think i will be granted? Hoping for your response. Thank you. By the way, im planning to apply via Reli Tours and Travel agency.
I think you may have your aunt as your guarantor. Overall, I don’t recommend to have your application at Reli unless you had your previous visa application approved by that agency. If you will still apply there and did not allow you to have all your documents processed, don’t continue and had your application processed through an another accredited Japanese embassy authorized travel agency. Just search Reli on facebook and you decide if you will continue there. I just tell this based on my experience.
Hi! May I know what is it about Reli? I processed my visa application (without guarantor) there last April and got approved. I’m planning to go back to Japan next year and have my application processed by them. Just curious!
Mabilis and mura processing ng visa sa kanila. Reli din ang go-to agency namin when it comes to Japan Visa application.
Hello, Mr. Yoshke.
Thank you very much for this article. It’s very helpful. :)
I’m planning to go to Japan on April of 2018. I would like to apply for a single-entry visa since I have a Japanese friend who currently lives in Japan and that will serve as my guarantor. I have read of a blog of somone saying, “As a Filipino “Temporary Visitor,” we are only entitled for 15 days, 30 days or 90 days of stay.” She again reiterated it and asked, “How many days can a Filipino tourist stay in Japan? Japanese Consul can grant 15, 30, and 90 days of stay to Philippine nationals.”
My concern is, “Can I apply for a ’30-days of stay with a single-entry visa as a first timer’ in Japan? Or the 30 and 90 days of stay is only given to those who have multiple-entry visa? Have you heard of anyone that have the same case and were granted of that 30-day duration? Is it worth the risk, or should I just apply for a usual 15-days of stay? Thank you very much. Looking forward to your response. :)
it’s my first time going to japan and they have approved my Japanese visa for 90days even if it’s my first time. try attic tours they are very accommodating.
Hi! same question po and kind of same situation but for us, it’s for visiting a relative and I’m with my mom and cousin. I’m curious if what happened with your application po? did you go with 90 days ? or just the usual 15 days? they also want us to apply for 90 days it’s our first time pa naman. Thank you! hope you’ll answer my question.
Hi! I have a full time job but I am earning minimum salary. I have money in the bank and I do have travel history from non-visa countries in the past years. What are the chance that my visa will get approved?
Hello! I have a full time job but I am earning minimum salary. I have money in the bank and I do have travel history from non-visa countries in the past years. What are the chance that my visa will get approved?
I also waited for my visa 3weeks and i got denied , knowing i have been to japan 4x and i have a good travel history my money in he bank is 300plus i wonder what could wrong i did the same process as i applied for my previous visa the only thing is i submit it on diffrent agency where i use to get my visa
Since you have been to Japan 4x already, I think it should be better if you submitted an appeal letter through the agency where you had your first application approved or to another agency except the one you had last submitted your requirements.
We also appealed when there’s a problem with the agency not accepting alll our documents. Luckily, Japan embassy aprroved our application when we submitted an appeal letter and documents through the another agency. Also, try to call the Japan embassy and state your probblem.
Thanks for sharing about Japan visa and I should have read it before applying for a Japan tourist visa. We were denied on our first application but able to reaply again with an appeal letter and be approved in less than a month because we had a problem with the agency who processed our first appliation. Good thing that we were approved after that.
To those who were denied visa, don’t feel devastated, just try again or if have to leave asap and submit additional documents, try to submit an appeal letter.
You may also search on “how to apply a Japan denied tourist visa in less than a month” and scroll within the first page of Google search. But if you don’t have a solid basis on why you must be approved immediately, just wait again for 6 months.
ako palak ko rin punta jan sa japan kaya paano po yoski demen
Hello,
Good day!
Kakaresign ko lang sa prev company last Friday at magsisimula ako sa new company this week then ang Japan vacation ko will be on November 22 to 28, 2017.
Magkakaissue ba if sa COE ko ay magrereflect na bago palang ako sa company?
Or better na isubmit ko na lang ay ang ITR ko from prev company, COE na kakakuha ko lang last week at payslip ko from prev company then mag-aapply ako 1st week of September?
Need your views on this matter.
Thanks.
Thanks to this blog! I got my Japan Visa in just 2 days… Lodged my application on the 28th of August and got it the next day! I applied via Reli Tours Southmall!
Just wondering, what do you usually put as reason for multiple visa request?
Hi po sir. Mag aaply po ako ng japan visa pero walang laman ung bank ko biglaan po kc kaya diko nalalagyan ng pera ung bank ko… marami na po akong travel sa asia . My visa rin po ako sa u.s. 10 years multiple entry. Can I use my credit card statement instead in the absence of bank statement.tnx po
need ng bank certificate, not bank statement.
Hello. I will be applying for a japan visa this week. I quit my job last year so I thought my brother would sponsor me. But I am not sure which form to submit? Is it the guarantee letter? even though my brother is Filipino and living in the Philippines? (I’m not quite sure cause I’m kinda thinking the guarantee letter is for guarantors who lives in Japan?) I hope you’d be able to help me on this information. Thanks!
Hi Nonon, were you able to reply with your brother as guarantor? How did it go? Were you approved? I’m also thinking of doing the same thing. I hope you can help me. :)
Hi Nonon! If Guarantor who lives in the Philippines will shoulder part or all of the applicant’s travel
expenses
– Guarantee Letter
– Proof of relationship between applicant and guarantor (e.g. Birth Certificates etc.)
– Bank Certificate (original) and Income Tax Return (ITR Form 2316) (clear Photocopy) of
Guarantor
Hi Nonon! Having a Pinoy guarantor is okay. You will need a guarantee letter and proof of your relationship. In this case, you will need to also submit a copy of your brother’s birth certificate.
Hi, my boyfriend’s Japan visa was approved for 90 days with a single entry and will expire on January 2018. My concern is, Does it mean he needs to get a flight immediately and needs to go back in the Philippines before January 2018, or the 90-day duration of stay in Japan will start in the 1st day of his departure there?
He has to enter Japan before January 2018. Then the 90-day count will start on the day he arrives in Japan.
Oops, What I mean is does the 90-day duration of stay in Japan will start in the 1st day of his arrival there? Thank you.
hi if we will be staying in 2 hotels, (Tokyo & in Kyoto), do we need to include the name and address of both hotels? if we will be passing those 2 hotel reservations for my application…Thanks.
If the itinerary you will submit indicates you will be visiting both Tokyo and Kyoto, you have to include both hotels.
Hello! May I know how will I add another hotel on the application form?
The spaces provided for are not enough. Can you plese show me how? Thanks!
You can write just one in the form and include the rest in the Daily Schedule.
Hi! We have booked an AirBnB for a Japan trip in December (it’s a residential address) and plan to submit our documents sometime this month. Given that the AirBnB owner is not someone we know personally, would it affect our application if we placed the AirBnB’s address as our accommodation? Or can we just place the name of a hostel near the area?
Hi Adette, if you apply as a tourist (and not as someone visiting a friend) I don’t think it would be a problem. Just also indicate AirBnB so it’s clear to whoever will process.
Hi question. When i renewed my passport i didnt change my surname or marital status. Now im going to apply for a Jap visa and i realized that all of my requirements (bank cert, bus permit, itr) are all using my married name. Is that going to post a problem or is a marriage certificate gonna suffice?
Your marriage certificate should be enough, but it would be best to call the agency to double check.
Hi,
I applied for Tourist Japan Visa last week and got approved 10 days later (applied in Cebu). Just wanna share with you how I was able to get a visa with just 50k in the bank.
1. I would recommend that the form be filled out online instead of handwritten, because it’s clear and no erasure. There shouldn’t be any blank spaces left, put N/A if ever. Cross check all the details inputted and make sure it coincide with your itineraries.
2. Your Japan daily schedule should just be simple and easy to be determine by the Embassy. Too much or complicated itinerary will give you less chances of Japan visa.
3. Honestly, I only have 50k in my bank but I was confident it wouldn’t be an issue as long as you have travel history like South Korea or any other Asian countries.
4. I added my plane tickets and accommodation confirmation which i booked from Agoda (Pay later). I highly suggest to book your accommodation through Agoda since they have pay later feature.
To sum up, as long as you comply with the requirements, there’s shouldn’t be an issue.
which agency po ba kayo?
Thanks for sharing, K! :)
How long was the period of stay you applied for?
Hello po. I’m just curious. Valid pa ba yung passport ko if nabasa sya? Yung upper part nya yung nabasa and very minimal lang. Pero yung photo and laminated part is okay. Walang stain. Hoping na Sana matulungan mo ko. Thank you po!
Hello, I’m just curious about the validity of my passport. The upper part got wet but the laminated part or my bio data and photo are okay. Water stain is very minimal. Only the last few pages got water stain. Is it still okay if i apply for tourist visa? Hope you can help me. Thank you sir.
Hi Drey! Not sure. Would be best to call DFA. :)
Hi, thank you for writing this article. I’ve been to Japan this year. Our visa was processed as a group and we had a guarantor that time so we didn’t need to submit proof of income. We stayed at a home address, the same address as our gurantor so really no problem. This time a Japanes friend is inviting us(me and hubby) to go to his place. We will stay in his house so no hotel expenses and he wants to pay for our tickets. But I don’t want to put more burden for him to be our guarantor because if so he needs to provide a lot of documents, so we are planning to apply on our own. But I have some concerns:
1. Is it okay to put a home address even though we will not state that we are invited?
2. I am a free lancer, I have ITR but no COE, I only submit my ITR (quarterly) online. Will that be acceptable? My husband is employed and he can provide everything, I compared mine and his, mine looks unofficial (just printed out on my own), would that be a problem?
3. We don’t maintain a huge amount of money in a bank, I have two though, (not really a fan, especially with BPI glitches last time), would it be okay to have a low history daily balance less than 30k? I’m planning to apply on January, can I still work it out? How much should I keep? We are planning to stay for only 4-5 days suburb area.
Thank you so much, would really appreciate your reply.
[If applicant will shoulder part or all of
his/her travel expenses]
7.
Bank Certificate
Validity of
Bank Certificate
is three (3) month from the date of issue
8
.
Applicant
’
s
Income Tax Return (Form 2316)
clear
Photocopy
(latest
NOTICE]
Size of
document for
application should be A4 size
only
. If document is other size, please
submit copy
that is
already
adjusted in A4
si
ze from
its original
a
nd
without
staple
s or pasting
pages
.
Applicants are exempted from submitting (4) and (5) Indicated above if they can submit
old/valid passports with used Japan visa.
It is applicant’s responsibility to ensure that he/she meet the requirements for the grant of
a visa.
Submission of any supporting documents not listed above is encouraged (e.g. applicant’s
economic or social ties with the Philippines, urgent reasons for
visit: medical certificate, wedding
invitation).
If you want to be on the safe side, better to put a hotel and hotel address.
Have you considered having your husband as guarantor instead?
Hello ask ko lang my mom stay here in japan as tourist visa inextend ko sya bale 6months po sya dto kelan ko po kaya sya uli pwd invite pabalik dto s japan as tourist visa. Thanks in adv.
so what is the reason why you only got single entry after having multiple? got mine 3 months only and single entry. my previous visa was 2 single and 1 multiple 3 yrs . thanks
Hi Diana, I think it’s because the third visa was on a new passport. (I got a new passport between the 2nd and 3rd applications.) And although I submitted the old passport, I don’t think they looked at it. But when I applied for the 4th time, I was given multiple since there’s already a Japan visa on the new passport.
Same thing happened to my blogging partner Vins. His 3rd visa was on a new passport and he was issued a single-entry visa again, despite being granted multiple before.
Can multiple Japanese Visa’s be transferred to a new passport? I have been granted multiple entry visa but my passport validity is due to expire within 2 years time.
Hi Andre. Happened to me, too. You don’t need to transfer the visa. Just bring your old passport with you when you’re going to Japan. Show both passports to Immigration Officers. :)
Hi what if the old passport (still in single status) where in the multiple visa is there and renewed already the passport with married status. It is still valid? Provided with marriage contract?
thanks
Hi Aileen, not sure but as far as I know, yes the visa will remain valid even if your status and your passport have changed. Just make sure you bring a copy of your marriage contract when you travel.
Hi, ask ko lang po. Gusto ko sanang mag apply for japan visa as tourist and will stay for a couple of days like 5days? Ok lang ba kung ang bank ko may laman na almost 600k? But i dont have work po.. tapos ang bf ko atty sya, ilang beses nadin nakapunta doon.. ok lang kaya yun nun kung walang work pero may money? Ma aapproved po kaya? First time ko mag apply ng visa kasi sa japan.. thanks po sa response
Hmmm. Medyo mahirap kasi requirement talaga nila ang COE and ITR. If kaya mo namang ijustify kung bakit ka unemployed now (transitioning to entrepreneurship, etc), baka pwede pero they might ask for additional supporting docs.
Medyo irrelevant yung case ng bf mo kahit ilang beses na sya nakapunta kasi applications are processed individually.
Hi,we will be applying for japan visa next week but our company hasn’t issued yet our itr for 2017.is it okay if i’ll just submit my 2016 itr?thank you.
Yep! 2016 is okay.
Hi question. When i renewed my passport i didnt change my surname or marital status. Now im going to apply for a Jap visa and i realized that all of my requirements (bank cert, bus permit, itr) are all using my married name. Is that going to post a problem?
Not sure, but I think I remember I asked this question to the agency and they said that you just need to bring a copy of your marriage certificate.
Hello Mr. Yoshke,
Good day! Thank you so much for this great article. I’m a Filipino who was born and raised in the Philippines. I’m planning to visit Japan on April 2 for 15 days. This is going to be my first time to apply. I work as a Virtual Assistant, Freelancer as of the moment. I have a Japanese friend living in Japan who will serve as my guarantor for this trip.
I saw on the list of requirements that “Submission of supporting documents not listed above is encouraged (e.g. applicant’s economic or social ties with the Philippines, urgent reasons for visit: medical certificate, wedding invitation).” I learned from reading many blogs that others had submitted documents such as ITR, COE, Company ID, Leave of absence, and other proof that they have a strong indication to come back to the Philippines. Normally, those who I notice that submit those documents apply for a tourist visa without a guarantor.
Unfortunately, in my case, I don’t have such documents to show any proof. I have a been working as freelancer online, and my two bosses are based in the US. I can ask a boss of mine who is currently in Dubai to send to me a document proving that I work for her, although it might take a long time to wait for the documents to arrive here (I don’t know if a digital signature would be accepted by the Embassy that’s why it must be hand-written). Do you think that I really need to submit those documents or not? I’m wondering how can I address this matter.
Thank you very much. Looking forward to your response. :)
Hi Adi, as far as I know and based on my personal experience, if you’re applying for a VISIT FRIEND visa and you have a guarantor who is also your sponsor, you don’t need to submit your own COE/ITR. Instead, you will need to submit your guarantor’s documents instead:
– Guarantee letter. Must be issued within the past 3 months
plus the following:
– Income Certificate (Shotoku Shomeisho) from City Hall
– Tax return certificate (Nouzeishomeisho: Form 2) from Tax office (Kakuteishinkokusho Hikae),
– Bank Certificate (Yokin Zandaka Shomeisho)
Helo po.. Nagpaprint po ako kanina ung sa letter po for the consulate general in manila for my visa application..kukunin po kasi ako ng friend ko sa japan. Eh nung naprint ko na poh nagkamli po ako.. Ung sincerely nacover na po nung last stanza eh wala na poh akong extra copy.. Tatanggapin pa po kaya nila un?
Hi Sir,
We will apply for a japan visa next week. I would like to ask if we can apply directly to the Japan Embassy? Or should we really need to go thru agencies?
2. Im employed to a private company, do i need to submit a Cert. Of Employment or ITR and company ID will be fine? Thank you.
Hi Diana, please read this first. You’ll find the answers to your questions here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2013/11/japan-visa-requirements-manila-philippines/
Hello po gusto ko lng po sana itanong pano po ung visa na nagrant kaso hndi ka nakaalis medyo conplicated po yung reason may chance po kaya ulit na magrant pag nireapply sya at kelan po sya pwedeng ire apply thank u in advanve for the answer more pOwer to your blog po
Hello po gusto ko lng po sana itanong pano po ung visa na nagrant kaso hndi ka nakaalis medyo complicated po yung reason may chance po kaya ulit na magrant pag nireapply sya at kelan po sya pwedeng ire apply thank u in advance for the answer more pOwer to your blog po
Hi…..According to the agency where i submitted my application you need to write an explanation for the unsed japan visa.
Not sure, but I think it wouldn’t matter. Just apply again.
Hello,
Thank you for this article. It’s really helpful!
But then, I just wanted to be enlightened with my case. I am a solo-traveler with no guarantor, I plan to book my own flight and hotel (pay later) since it might be cheaper than getting a tour package. I still haven’t process my VISA yet since I am not familiar on the places and what to include on my Daily Itinerary (they are asking for contact numbers). I don’t want to get my VISA denied. Would you suggest to avail a tour package as a first-time traveler? Thank you.
No, you don’t need to avail of a tour package. You just need to plan your trip and make your itinerary.
My chance b maaproved visa ko kase wala p ko travel history khit isa tatak s passport tourist visa iaapply q got all the requirements needed percent chance maaproved for japan tourist visa? thanks
Hi Ruben, it’s not possible for us to give a percentage of the possibility kung maaapprove or hindi. It depends on many factors.
But merong mga nag-aapply na first time magtravel abroad na approved ang application.
Hi.
Good day.
For example ung length of stay na nilagay ko ay 6 days sa application of visa at wala pa talaga nabook na flight. tapos ung actual flight booking ko 8 days pala. ano po mangyayari?
Okay lang po yan. Di naman nila tinitingnan ang flight ticket pag visa application. :)
hi,
is it possible na maextend yung duration of stay? 30days lang kasi naaprove sa visa.. thanks
I have no idea how. But maybe some of our readers know.
Hi! Ask lang po, my husband and i are planning to visit japan in oct 2018. Im currently employed and can provide all the needed requirements, but my husband on the other hand is a freelancer. He has No ITR and COE. Is it ok if we pass our application together, provide a NSO marriage certificate and we will provide a letter of explaination that i will sponsor both our expenses? Thank you and hoping for your feedback.
Hi Joy! Yes, that’s the easiest way of doing it. He can declare that you will be sponsoring the trip. :)
Hi Sir! Ask ko lang. Yung balak ko ilagay sa itinerary ko is 4 days lsng pero ang nakuha ko talaga na flight is 8 days. The reason is para hindi ganun kalaki yung kailangan ko ipakita sa bank statement ko. Okay lang ba to?
Marami gumagawa nyan. :P
Hi po. Any idea po if ano yung process if ako yung mag shoulder ng expenses ng parents ko who are both in Pinas but im currently working overseas.. Pero I will join the trip with them. ITs jus thaT sa Pinas sila mag apply ng visa granted na mag susupport ako lahat ng docs like bank cert, sponsorship letter , etc.. is it possible kaya sir?
Hi JB, yes, possible. Just provide the documents needed or equivalent nun sa country where you are. Example, instead of the ITR, submit ung version ng tax certificate sa bansa kung asan ka.
Hello. Super thanks for sharing this. Pero may question ako, Paano kung mag isa lang akong pupunta ng Japan pero may friend ako dun na imimeet ko (she’s studying there) then we will do the tour together, anong mas okay na visa kukunin ko, tourist or visit a friend? :)
If sa hotel ka magse-stay, better if tourist visa. If sa bahay nya, visit visa.
Thank you so much :) Been following you coz I also love Japan pero first time ko pa lang pupunta gawa ng budget. :D
huy, san na yung tanong ko dito? :(
What if I’m an online seller and don’t have ITR , COE or even payslips. Can’t provide a provide a proof of income, what documents should I submit? Thankyou!
hi aiks! how was your application? na approve ba? my bf has the same issue just like yours
If you’re applying as a tourist, you can try writing a letter explaining why you can’t provide an ITR and submit other proof of income as an online seller. Of course, there is no guarantee that yours will be approved.
But if you have a friend in Japan, the better way is to apply for a VISIT FRIEND visa instead. You won’t need an ITR for that, but there are other requirements, as listed here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2013/11/japan-visa-requirements-manila-philippines/
Hi! My mom and I are planning to go to japan this October. My mom is a housewife and I am a graduating student this June so we can’t present any ITR, but my mom will be paying for the trip and had saved money for this. Reli tours said that we don’t have to provide a letter of explanation. Is this okay? Or should we make a letter saying that my mom is a housewife? My father is an OFW so he doesn’t have an ITR as well. Thank you so much, this blog is really helpful!
Hi Jo, just follow what the agency recommends kasi for sure mas alam nila.
Although yung experience ko, Reli Tours din, I provided a letter of explanation nung one time I applied na walang ITR.
hi! planning trip on sept., we’re 3, meron na kami plane ticket for 10 days. If kukuha ng visa and guarantor yung mother ko sa amin 3 , anak ko tas si hubby, the thing is hindi kami kasal ni hubby, ano kaya pwede gawin? pwede ba by group application namin? need enlightenment.
Hi, I was wondering. I’m planning to travel to Japan. Coincidentally, I now have a long time Fil-Jap friend (who grew up in the Philippines) now living in Tokyo. Would it be alright to put his address as my address when staying in Tokyo? He’s not a guarantor though. I’m not visiting him as my main purpose of travelling to Japan, that’s why I’m a little confused if it would be okay to use their address as where I’m staying.
In theory, if you want better chances of approval, if you’re applying for a TOURIST visa, write down a hotel name. If you’re applying for a VISIT visa, fill it in with a person’s address. If you’re applying for a TOURIST visa and writing down someone’s address, it might raise some questions.
Hi po ask ko lang kasi may kilala ako doon sa japan doon ako mag stay sa knya pag mag tour ako almost 5 days , Pero ang ipapalabas ko is solo traveler ako kung magbobook ba ako ng hotel resevation tapos i cancel ko siya hahanapin ba yung hoter reservation ko? At anu ang tinitingnan nila sa hotel booking , actually this is my 2nd time na magpa japan yung first kasi yung friend ko na ang nag process ang ginawa ko is naghintay siya lahat ng book ,ngayon nahihirapan ako kasi need daw tlaga may hotel ka na ma stay doon natatakot ako kasi baka hanapan ako sa immig . Pwedi ba na ang ipakita ko g reservation booking ay yung confirmation galing sa isang hotel? Yung bago ko pa kinancel? Sana masagot niyo po ako :(
Hi Belle,
I’m a bit confused po. Para saan po yung hotel reservation nyo? Visa application or Immigration?
Sa visa application, hindi kailangan ng hotel reservation dun.
Sa Immigration sa Pinas, mas okay kung merong proof of accommodation kasi minsan hinahanap. Ang pinaka-OK syempre ay actual hotel reservation or letter of invitation (affidavit). Pero may iba na ganun ang ginagawa, magrereserve tapos icacancel tapos yun ang ipapakita just in case. (Not that I reco it.)
Question po. We booked a 9 day trip to Japan already but we’re nervous since we’re not sure kung enough yung pera sa account namin. Can we put a lesser days of stay ba dun sa application form like 5 days para lang medyo sure pero magstay pa rin kami ng 9 days? Wala naman po kasi sa requirements yung flight details.
Pwede naman.
Hi.. do you have any idea kung pwede na ko mag apply for a new japan visa kahit kakagaling ko lang sa japan last march? Nung Feb 14 2018 narelease ng agency ung passport ko.. then march 4-17 2018 ako nagpunta sa japan.. thanks in advance for your reply
Yep, okay lang yan. :)
Hi again.. itatanong ko na rin to.. pano kung visiting relatives visa ung iaapply ko.. pero ung guarantor ko is japanese boyfriend ng sister ko na nsa japan? Is it okay? Sya ang guarantor and sponsor ko..
Yep, oks lang. But you need proof of relationship. More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/03/japan-visa-requirements-with-guarantor/
Hi, my family is planning a trip this June and decided to apply for a single-entry. I went to Discovery Tours to lodge our application. Apparently, the one who assisted me asked if I wanted to apply for a multiple-entry. Since I had a lacking requirement, I wasn’t able to lodge our application, which is a good thing I still have time to think about what to apply. So her question left me confused. I wanted to make sure we get a visa since we’ve paid for the plane tickets and accommodation. My questions are:
1. Is it possible that we get a multiple-entry visa even by applying just a single-entry?
2. Would it matter if we include our flight itinerary which shows only 5 days of stay in Japan?
3. Is it okay to just put a name of a hotel even though we haven’t booked any? We are actually booked in AIRBNB but our host said that there has been an issue between Japan gov’t and AIRBNB, hence, we decided to just put a hotel name.
4. When you say, HIGHLY SUFFICIENT FINANCIAL CAPACITY, how high is this? :) Do you have an idea how much more or less should appear in the bank certificate?
5. Can you give feedback or reviews on Discovery Tours, if their chances of processing of APPROVED visa is high or not?
Sorry for the long read, and thanks in advance for your help. :)
Hi ANgel. First time mo ba magtatravel sa Japan? Kasi malaking factor un.
1. Yep, happened to me before. But according to Reli Tours, lately daw, if gusto ng multiple, kailangan nang i-apply talaga na multiple. But if you’re traveling to Japan for the first time, it’s highly unlikely na multiple ang ibibigay sayo.
2. Hindi sya kasama sa requirements. Sa ibang agency, tinatanggal din nila yan kahit isubmit mo. I dunno sa Discovery.
3. Yep, okay lang. Di kailangan na may nakareserve na. Kelangan lang nung name ng hotel, address and contact number.
4. I dunno. They don’t say exactly. Best to ask the agency.
5. Haven’t tried. No idea.
:)
Hi,
I was just in Japan last month, around April 13-21, 2018 for the first time, I plan to immediately apply for a multiple visa. I want to visit again around in December or next year. I think I can provide around more or less Php 100k on my bank statement. Is it okay to apply right away after just being there? Or is it wise to wait a bit for a few months?
Thanks.
Hi Reins, yep, it’s okay. I know that because one of my teammates was in Japan in December and then applied again in January for a multiple visa. The amount in her bank account is lower than yours. Her application was approved.
That’s not to say yours will be approved too. Depende pa rin yan sa case mo and sa mag-aassess ng application. Wala namang guarantee. But I’m just sharing to show that it’s possible.
Hello poh… How many days was your visiting relative visa in group application approved?
15 days lang po.
Hello! I’m an independent contractor in my company, hence, they cannot issue a COE for me. Do you think the embassy will accept COIC (certificated of Independent Contractor)? Looking forward to your response. Thank you in advance!
Hi! Yep, I think tatanggapin yan. :)
HI, my question is, my sister who is an american citizen is paying for my sons ticket and stay in the Japan. My son will be joining her family in a 4 day 3 night trip to Japan. How do I go about the guarantor requirements? BTW what does the SEAL mean in the letter of guarantee? thanks for your help in advance.
You will need to submit the following:
– Guarantee Letter. Must explain your guarantor’s relationship to you and their contact details.
– Proof of relationship between applicant and guarantor. For example, if the guarantor is a parent or a close relative, submit their birth certificate too.
– Bank Certificate (original) of the Guarantor
– Tax documents of guarantor
The seal is for cases when the guarantor is a Japan resident. Residents in Japan have a seal that they can use for legal documents.
Hi! Gaano katagal yung gap ng first trip mo sa Japan sa 2nd time mo mag apply ng visa? My first visit to Japan was just last year (November) and I plan to go back later this year. August or September ako mag-a-apply ng visa. I hope the one year gap is good enough para may chance makakuha ng multiple entry.
Hi Allan, I don’t think it matters. My teammate Astrid was just in Japan December last year, and then she applied again in January for a February trip, and she was given a multiple entry visa.
Thank you for replying!
Another question just to make sure…ok lang ba na hindi sundan yung itinerary na isusubmit especially the number of days of stay in Japan?
Ideally, sundan. Pero okay lang na hindi, basta within the allowed period pa rin.
Yes po. If ever na single entry ulit makuha ko, I will travel within the 3 months na valid ang visa. Ang worry ko lang is if example Nov 6-12 ang nasa submitted itinerary pero hanggang Nov 15 or 16 talaga. Ok lang ba yun? Last time kasi sinundan ko talaga yung date of arrival and departure ko.
Oks lang yun basta within the validity period.
Hi. Can a “temporary visitor” renew their passport in Japan? If yes, how long does it usually take? Thank you!
Last week of september po ako magaapply for japan visa, flight namin is nov4- 11 2018 inaalala ko lang po if magagrant pa din po ba ako ng visa since expiration ng passport ko is april 15,2019. Inaalala ko po kase yung 6months before expiration ng passport..
Hi Princess, naku, di ko alam. Pero ang best na gawin mo is magrenew ka na ng passport before ka pa mag-apply ng visa para sigurado talaga.
I have a question. pwede pa din po ba ko maka enter ng japan kahit po ang visa ko expired na the next day? ang flight ko po kasi ay July 19,2018 ang expired po ng visa ko ay July 20,2018. pwede po kaya yun?
Hi what if my visa on old passport got stained by oil. Can i still use my japan visa there?
Hi Ivy. I dunno. :(
Hello Yoshke,
Thank you for the very informative FAQs! I’m going to visit my partner in Japan this September, I’m currently a freelancer with 2 jobs (designer and online ESL tutor) but there are a few complications with my tax documents that I have to fix, so he offered me to be my guarantor for the trip. However I have another thing to ask. I got denied once when I applied for a single-entry visa 4 years ago. I was a careless 19 year-old, probably I wasn’t able to submit enough proof of return at that time :( I didn’t even submit my COIC and my university registration form. Anyway, I will be submitting a cover letter for my visa application this year but should I tell them that I got denied before? or makakaapekto ba yun sa application ko? whatchathink? Thank you, thank you!
Hi Aikyu, no need to highlight that pa in your cover letter. Pero malamang alam naman nila yun. Baka makikita naman nila yun sa record nila. Pero sa cover letter, focus on this trip and your purpose this time around.
HELLO! For a first-time applicant, is it okay to go for a multiple re-entry?
Best if single muna kung first time.
Hi po meron na po akong PAL ticket, nag book na po ako sa bookings.com ng hotel. But i have a childhood friend in japan nag asawa na po siya ng japanese offered me her home. Ano po ba ang nas mabuti i apply ko na visa? Kasi i am 51 years old, permanent goverment employee. Completo na papeles ko for tourist pero hinintay ko ang sept kasi ang nabili kong ticket na promo is nov 19 -25 pa, ang kaibigan ko ay nag work sa isang export paper industry. Willing na man siya magbigay sa requirement pero sufficient na man ang bank account ko, at regular na man ako sa work ko. Ang isang problema nakkita ko i have not travelled oitside the philippines yet. Please give me some insights. Salamat po
Hi Chelsea, either way ay okay naman. Hindi naman ganun kahigpit ang Japan kumpara sa ibang countries. Oks lang kahit first time mo to travel kung sufficient naman ung funds mo and employed naman.
Hi!
Ask ko lang kung kailan pwede ulit mag apply ng visa? Got mine last Feb 18, 2018 and expired last May 31 2018. May time frame po ba before you can re-apply? Thanks!
Hi Mul, wala naman. You can apply again if gamit na yung past visa mo. :)
Hi. What if may guarantor sa pinas, yung sa application form na may guarantor sa second page, di na ba fifill up-an yun pag dito sa pinas nakatira yung magiging guarantor? Not Applicable lang sya?
Hi! :) I came across your blog while looking for Japan visa application tips and I found it VERY helpful! Although I do have some questions.. I’m a fresh graduate and currently unemployed. We booked our flights recently and we’ll be going to Tokyo in Oct for 5 days. She will sponsor me in this trip as this would serve as my graduation gift. Could you give me any advice on what I should do or present in order to relay that to the consul? It’s going to be our first time in Japan though we’ve been to other countries like Korea. Hope you could reply soon! :)
Hi Chesca, the easiest way is to have a sponsor so you need to submit their financial documents instead.
good day po..ask ko lng po kng ok lng na joint accnt ung bank cert na ipapasa ko tas may sponsor ako taga japan gf ng pinsan ko ok lng ba na gagawa din xa ng letter na sa knya ako tutuloy kc bday din ng anak nya..
Hi Karla! yung requirements for visiting friends, andito po: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/03/japan-visa-requirements-with-guarantor/
Pero yes, oks lang naman ang joint account. And kailangan mo ng invitation letter, among others.
Hi!
My husband is working in japan as an ofw and I’m planning to apply for the visitor’s visa. Should the “Invitation letter from the person you will visit” requires it to be original? or pwede lang scanned copy of the original? As well as the ” Foreign Registration Certificate”.
Thanks po!
Hi Wylen. Naku, di ko po alam. Pag nagsusubmit po ako, original yung sinusubmit ko para sure na walang problem. Ina-ask ko na lang ung kakilala ko sa Japan na i-mail saken ang documents.
Hi Ask ko lng po if possible po ito..
Example.. ung ginawa ko pong itinerary is for Tokyo/Osaka route only and naapprove ung visa..
what if ung nakalagay po sa itinerary is di ko po susundin like pupunta po ako sa ibang place like Chichibu ganun pero kaya naman ng budget ko.. magkaka issue po ba ako? or malalaman ba ng Japan un?
Thanks po
Hi Harlquine, okay lang po yan basta wag ka lang mag-overstay. :)
Hello po.
I would like to ask for your opinion.
I will be applying for Japan visa next week and i plan to use my flight itinerary as a supporting document. However, there are 2 other names in there which will not process a visa anymore because they have multiple entry visits since 2016. Do you think that will be a red mark for me?
Thank you..
Clau
Flight itinerary isn’t required.
But to answer your question, I don’t think it will affect your application. That’s perfectly normal.
Hi. I’m unemployed po and walang bank account. Yung boyfriend ko po ang sasagot ng expenses ko since may work naman siya. Parehas kaming nandito sa Pinas and sabay kaming magtatravel. Anong mga documents po ang kailangan naming ihanda?
Hi Diana, please see this post and check the section WITH GUARANTOR: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2013/11/japan-visa-requirements-manila-philippines/
Hi! Will they accept BIR form 2307 or Certificate of Creditable Tax Withheld at Source? as a substitute for BIR form 2316 (ITR).
Thank you.
Hi Ron-Ron, natry ko na sya once before, tinanggap naman. To be safe, gawa ka na lang ng explanation letter bakit wala kang 2316.
Hi! I am unemployed without a bank account and a home maker of 3boys with a common law partner for 10 years already. My second degree cousin who has dual citizenship (US & Fil) is inviting me for a Japan trip Apr 2019. Since this is a sponsored trip, what supporting document should we provide as proof of our relationship? Also, when is the best time to apply for a visa? Hope to hear from.you. Thank you in advance!
Hi Charina,
This post might help: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/03/japan-visa-requirements-with-guarantor/
Ask ko lng po kng ano png documents ang kailangan ko kpag nag apply ng japan visa? Kc po ung sa birth certificate ko ay REINIRIA pero mula po ng nag aral , nag asawa at nag ka anak po ako ang gamit ko po pti n din po sa mga id’s ko ay REINERIA . Nung kumuha po ako ng passport ang pinagamit sa akin ay ung nsa birth certificate ko po. At nung nag travel po kmi ng family ko sa hk wla nmn pong question. Marami pong salamat…
Hi Love, wala ako masyado alam kapag ganyang case. :( Best to contact a travel agency directly para sure po. :)
Hi, Sir! Pwede kaya gamitin ko payroll account ko for the bank cert?
Yes po. :)
Hi. I just got back (just yesterday) from a one week trip from Osaka. And I wanna go back but this time I’ll visit Tokyo. How soon can I apply for a tourist visa? Is there a time gap / waiting time needed? Thanks!
Hi Prescilla,
Not sure if there’s such a rule. But my teammate and I have tried applying again after less than a month and we didn’t have a problem. Approved pa rin.
Hi po, currently student po ako and nasa military po yung boyfriend ko sa Japan. Plano ko po siya bisitahin this December pero may questions lang din po ako:
1. Sa Okinawa po siya based pero sa Tokyo po kami magkikita so yung address na mailalagay ko is for a hotel and not sa home address niya. Magkakaproblem po kaya dun kung visit visa po ang aapplyan ko?
2. Hati po kami sa expenses ko sa Japan so parehas po kami magsusubmit ng bank certs, etc. Pwede naman po yun di ba or better po ba na siya yung sole guarantor ko and I will not submit anything? Naisip ko na rin sana mag-tourist visa na lang para less hassle kaso baka ma-question din po ako since estudyante pa po ako and no ITR kahit may savings naman ako. Kung maghanap din po kasi ako ng guarantor dito sa Pinas, malabo po eh.
3. Sa mga forms po ba need ko ilagay na partner/boyfriend ko siya or mas safe na visiting a friend na lang? Baka po kasi pag-isipan ako na magpapakasal kami or something pero bibisitahin ko lang po talaga siya hehe
Salamat po!
Hi Ann, pasensya na, pero di ko po alam pag ganyan situation.
Kung nakapili ka na ng travel agency kung saan ka mag-aapply, best to call them na lang para sigurado.
Hi,
do you have an idea regarding a doctor applying for multiple visa? what are expectation regarding approval, requirements, etc, ?
Hi Raff, everything we know about multiple entry Japan visa is here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/03/japan-visa-multiple-entry-requirements/
I think same lang naman pag doctors, as long as hindi military doctor.
Hi,
Thanks for this very informative post. I have been in Japan twice as an engineer and an Intra company transferee in my past visas. Do I have to submit a copy of my birth certificate for a temporary visitor visa this time?
Hi Joseph, unfortunately I have no idea about cases wherein the previous visa is non-tourist. :(
hi good pm mag ask lng po ako kagagaling lng po nmin ng anak ko sa japan last nov 2018 14days po kmi nag stay don sa tatay po ng anak ko…ngayon po gusto nmin mag apply ulit ng visa ng 3mos. pede na po kaya kmi mag apply ngayon..salamat
Hi Jenny, di po ako familiar sa process kapag 3-month visa. :(
Hi.. Thanks for this informative post. I have a question. My parents was granted a single entry visa. Valid from January 15- April 15. We booked a ticket to Japan April 8-April 13. And upon entering Japan, I would assume that the immigation officer will grant them 15 days stay in Japan. Will it be a problem knowing the visa will expire prior to the 15 days stay granted? Is the last day of the validity of visa would mean the last day to enter Japan or last day of stay in Japan? Thanks!
Hi Carmen, no. They can still stay for 15 days provided that they enter Japan within the validity period.
I’ve seen this at work. Last December, I traveled with a friend whose visa was to expire on December 10. We entered Japan on December 10, the very last day of validity of his visa. He was still allowed to stay for 15 days. :)
Hello, may japanese guarantor po ako. Pinadalhan nya ko ng docs, but na question po yung juminhyo kasi kulang details parang sa list of family members. Although sya lang naman talaga nakatira doon. Ang address naman lo ay tama. Sabi ng agency 50/50 lang daw po ang chance ko. Ganoon po va talaga?
Hi Kim, naku, di ko po alam pag ganyan. :(
Hi, Your post is very helpful.
I have a question though, I have a stepson who will is still a minor. He will turn 18 weeks before our flight. My dilemma is, he is still minor the time we will apply visa. Is okay, i’ll be listed as his guarantor? Do they need additional requirements for minor applicants? Thank you!!!
Hi CPA,
When I applied for my minor niece, they didn’t ask for additional documents other than what’s listed above.
Di ko alam if may changes na ngayon or ano rule ng other agencies. But if you want to be really covered, get an Affidavit of Support. :)
Hi Yosh! Here I am once again hehehe. I’ve visited Japan last March 25 up to April 05, 2019 (big thanks to your blog huhu) and wanted to apply again for a multiple entry visa this year. However, my passport will expire on January 2022. Will that be a problem on my application?
Hi Airashi,
No, that won’t be an issue. You can still use the multiple visa even if you changed passports anyway. :)
Hi. I need your help. Me and my sister are applying for a Japan Visa. My sister’s a student and i’m unemployed but i’m working for my mom so i earn naman monthly. My problem lang is that i don’t have an ITR. Would it be weird if we ask our mom to sponsor the both of us nalang since i can’t present an ITR. My bank only has 80-90k ish and we’re planning to stay in Japan ng 12 days. I’m a frequent traveller naman but i’m scared lang i might get denied since i won’t be able to present an ITR.
If we ask our mom to sponsor our trip, do we need to explain pa why’s she gonna sponsor? Thank you!
Hi Andre, it’s okay kasi immediate family naman ang sponsor (mom) and ung companion mo (sis). You will need a guarantee letter so pwede dun ma-explain bakit sya ang magsponsor pero madali lang yun kasi nga mom nyo naman sya.
Hi, your blog is very informative. :) I would like to ask lang kasi my boyfriend has an unused japan visa to visit his brother last 2010 sana but di siya natuloy. Now we want to go there as tourists hindi to visit yung brother nya. can we apply for a tourist visa instead of visit relatives visa? Kasi mas complicated requirements ng visit relatives and we will be the one shouldering the trip naman. Thank you!
Hi Jamie, okay lang if you choose to apply as tourists this time around. Normal lang naman yun.
But double check with the agency if your boyfriend needs to submit additional requirements for the unused visa. Di ko alam if merong additional pero ask na lang din to be safe.
Hello Yoshke!
I’ve been following you in IG and I would say your blogs and posts are really helpful.
I just have a question and I hope to seek valuable advice from you. We got a promo ticket via Cebu Pacific for next month and now we are planning to apply Japan Visa ( we are group of 6 ). My question is possible ba na I make 5 day itinerary for visa application purposes? Yung actual flight ticket na nabook namin is 8 days. Pero i’ve been reading blogs and note na ideally you should have atleast 10K per day. My bank account has 80K php, though enough naman sana sya and in reality, hindi nmn tlga un ung intended namin gagastusin since budget travellers kami, parang nag- aalangan ako na mag apply for a visa with 80K in my bank account and trip is 8 days ( possible saktuhan kumbaga sa perspective sa embassy, i dont know if im just overthinking )
So we are planning to create a 5 days itinerary (simplest as possible ) then once i got the visa, that’s the time na we will really plan. With regards sa Ticket, i plan not to submit it nalang. Okay lang ba kaya yun?
Thank you in advance Yoshke and grateful for your advice. :)
Hi Yoshi,
Oks lang yun kasi hindi naman requirement yung flight ticket. :)
Hi,
I’d like to ask for advise.
I have a single entry Visa to Japan that is valid from May 20 to August 20, 2019 but I don’t think I’ll be able to use it.
Reason that I won’t be able to go is of work engagements.
If I don’t use it, will it affect my chances of getting another Visa if I apply a few months from now?
Thank you in advance
Hi! Naku, di ko po knows. Tawag na lang po kayo sa agency kung saan kayo mag-apply.
Hi. Is it ok to use the same purpose of travel in visa application sa 2nd time na magaapply ako ng japan visa. Na grant ako ng 6months and planning to come back.
And how long will it takes for me to apply again. Thanks..
I think okay lang if the reason makes sense. Ano po ba yung purpose na sinabi nyo?
Mr. Yoshke,
Thank You for writing the blog and helping answer everyone’s questions.
I am planning to visit Japan along with my spouse for about 10 days. Do we have to fill in 2 sets of applications and pay the visa fee twice? Can you please confirm
Hi Sabzi,
Yes. Visa applications are assessed individually and the payment is per person. :)
Hi TPT!
I’m planning to apply again for a visa next month. I used to have a SE Japan visa in my previous passport. However, it got stolen abroad (worst experience ever).. but, do you think I still need to declare it even though I don’t have a copy of the visa page?
Thanks!
Hi Jan, waah, sayang yung old passport. :(
Anyway, di ko alam ano dapat gawin pag ganyan. Tawag ka na lang sa designated travel agency para sure.
Very informative thanks!
However i have a question. I got approved last 2017. I submitted documents like flight details, itinerary and accommodation in Tokyo but I really went to Osaka. Is it okay or will it matter since submitted info is different from the actual? Hoping you could notice this. Thanks :)
Hi Tamtam,
I don’t think it matters. Ang important is di ka nag-overstay. Ganun din ung nangyari sa friend ko, Osaka yung inapply nya pero di natuloy yung trip pero nag-Sapporo na lang sya. Wala namang naging problem.
Hi po..
I’ve visited japan last jan.2019-may2019..
visiting relative visa w/ guarantor..
Nag apply po ulit ako 3 days ago sa attic, visiting relative w/guarantor ulit… pero ngayon ko lang nakita na hindi ko pala nalagyan ng middle name yung visa application form ko.. may picture po kc ako ng form ko s cp… wla na po ba pagasa na magrant ako, dahil hindi ko nailagay middle name ko?
Thank you and more power!
Hi,
Just want to ask what type of visa should we apply for? My husband and I visited Japan 5 yrs ago but was not able to go back due to personal reasons. I got pregnant with our first child after our first Japan trip. As a family, we have visited HK and SG. My husband travels to other countries as part of his work. His travels are mostly in the US. He has a US Multiple VISA (2nd time to have been given). We’ll be in Japan for 20 days this coming Dec 2019 (due to limited availability of airline tickets). We know that you can only stay for 15 or 30 days in Japan, however our tickets exceeds the standard 15 days. I’ve read the reqts for multiple entry visa. Do we need to apply for that? Or can we request for an extension of our stay instead? Do multiple visas allow you to stay for more than 15 days or it still depends on the embassy? Our plan is to apply for a single-entry visa with a request for an extended stay, is that alright?
Would really appreciate your thoughts on this.
Thanks for a very detailed blog. Keep it up!
Hi Michelle,
I have no idea about applying for a visa for a stay longer than 15 days. I think it’s possible but I’m not sure and I am not familiar with the process. Just call a designated travel agency to be sure.
Multiple visas can allow either 15 days or 30 days per stay. My first multiple visa, 15 days lang. So even if you apply for a multiple visa, there’s no guarantee na 30 days, under normal circumstances. Again, best to contact a designated agency to be sure.
Hi Good Day,
Im married a japanese this year and have plan to get a visa to inter japan.
what kind of visa that i should apply? pwedi ba ako ang gumawa or i will be the one who will fill up the guarantee letter,invitaion letter at my daily schedule? hoping for your reply.
thank you.
This blog is really helpful!
I am an OFW. I just got hired last August 2019. I went to Japan last 2015 I was with my family and we were invited by our relatives who lived in Japan for 10 yrs. I am planning to visit Japan again on January. But this time, solo lang po ako magpunta. Here are my questions:
1. What are the requirements for the OFW if mag apply ng Japan visa sa Pinas?
2. May chance po ba na madeny yung application kahit na nakapunta na sa Japan before?
Thank you so much!
Hi SeeJay,
1. Di ko po sure. Pero ang alam ko, if walang ITR, need ng explanation letter. Pwede nyo po sabihin sa letter na nagwowork kayo abroad and you’re submitting ung equivalent tax document instead. Pero best to call a designated agency to be sure.
2. Yes, may chance pa rin pong ma-deny. May mga ganyang cases po.
Good day po
I am applying for a 30day multiple entry visa sa japan. Nilagay ko naman po na high financial capability ako dahil 7 digit naman po ung bank account ko po, may mga travel history naman dn po ako like sa us. Pero i enter thru sea, kasi po seaman ako. May us visa naman po aa passport ko.
I am visiting my gf. So ang inaply ko po is visiting a friend, nilagay ko pp ung bank details nya at sakin.
I visited japan twice r but again by sea padin and wala padin stamp ung passport ko since by transit lng kami doon.
Do you think my chances of approval is ok?
Hi! Hirap po ako sagutin kasi di ko po alam ang complexities pag seafarers. :(
Good afternoon. Thanks for sharing these information – very helpful. I’m actually planning to have my family visit me here in Japan in a year or so, and there are just some things from your blog I would like to inquire about.
1) I don’t have permanent residence visa (work visa annually renewed only), but will I be qualified as guarantor for my family’s application?
2) I’m planning to finance the whole trip, and they will be staying at my apartment. But I’m not sure if that will be ok since my apartment is provided by the company I’m working in.
3) If I am the guarantor (which means I will submit all the bank certificates), does that mean that the applicants don’t need to submit “proof of sufficient funds”?
I am looking forward to your response. Thanks and have a wonderful day!
Hi Anna,
I can only speak based on our experience.
1. My sister is not a permanent resident either but she’s able to be a guarantor when our family visits her. Just make sure you have the requirements on your end.
2. Same. My sister’s apartment was provided by the company.
3. Yep, yung sayo na lang isusubmit.
Thanks for answering my inquiries. This will be my first time to bring my family for a visit, so I’m really doing a lot of research. Medyo nakakastress lang mag-plan. LOL.
Thanks again! Have a great day!
Hi Sir! Im planning to apply for japan tourist visa with my parents, both are senior citizens and no longer have a source of income. I will be paying/sponaoring for our trip. I was wondering if I am considered as their guarantor? And if so, when I apply for their visa, do I have to forward a guarantee letter eventhough we are all applying for the same visa together?
Hi Cherry,
Yes, you can be their guarantor.
As far as I know, you will still need to submit a guarantee letter.
Got my visa last January 30, 2020 and was planning to go to Japan next week. But I might cancel my trip due to the on-going issues about nCoV thus, I might not be able to use my VISA within 90 days. Do you think I need to explain why I haven’t able to use my visa for my future visa applications?
Hi, got our visa approved last march 3, 2020, and it will expired on June 3,2020. We decide not to go because of the current situation in Japan and here in the Philippines. We are planning to push through maybe December or early next year, do you think there will be an issue if we didn’t use it now and re apply again?
No issue. You can just reapply.
Hi. I have some questions.. I have a cousin in japan and she’s a resident there. She told me that she will invite me and be my guarantor. My problem is; I don’t have a regular job. I’m an online seller and only selling stuffs on social medias… I have a bank account too but the amount does not match with my job… Its practically my savings and allowance from my parents. I wonder if it will be the caused to denied my visa eventhough I have an invite from the resident cousin or I have a sponsor.
i have 5 year multiple entry that would expire by march 2022, when is the best time to re apply? My concern is due to pandemic i wasn’t able to maximize the benefit of my visa, does it have a bearing to be granted with multiple entry again?
Hello,
Apply kami soon ng visa ulit ng fam ko, me + husband + son. We were issued a single entry in 2019. Guarantor nmin si hubby and as first time applicants, we submitted PSA BCs. My confusion this time is if we need to submit PSA birth cert. Kasi diba pag may previous visa d n required. Pero ako nmn magsponsor sa husband and son namin this time. Would you know if we need to submit PSA BC? Nag ask ako sa Attic SM North, Sabi hnd na kasi may prev visa. Gets ko nmn sa part na yun, pero for the purpose of proving relationship ng guarantor (me) to my husband and son, pano kaya? Thanks in advance
What if I lost my old passport that have my old visa for my last in Japan. Please help..
Naku, di ko po alam pag ganun.
Hello. My brother stayed in Japan for over 20 years n came back to Nigeria. Now he wants to go back. How does he go about it?