Japan entry requirements for travellers from the Philippines
Do Filipino citizens need a visa for Japan?
Yes. Philippine passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Japan. There is no visa-on-arrival facility for Filipino nationals.
Filipino applicants can use Japan’s eVisa system, but applications must be submitted through a MOFA-accredited travel agency in the Philippines rather than directly online. If you prefer to apply without using an agency, you can visit the Japanese embassy in Manila or the consulate in Cebu.
How long can you stay in Japan?
A short-stay visa permits a maximum stay of 90 days. The immigration officer at the port of entry determines your actual permitted duration on arrival. You may be granted a shorter period depending on your itinerary and documents.
Short-stay visas cannot be extended from within Japan and cannot be converted to any long-term status.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay. At least one blank page is required for entry stamps. Japan does not impose a six-month validity requirement beyond your departure date.
Proof of funds
You must show sufficient funds to cover your trip. Bank statements from the past three months are standard. There is no set minimum, but your balance should reflect your accommodation costs and planned expenses.
Onward or return travel
A confirmed return or onward ticket is required at the time of application and on arrival in Japan.
Applying for your Japan visa
Option 1: eVisa through an accredited agency
Filipino nationals can apply through a MOFA-registered travel agent. The agent submits your documents electronically. If approved, the visa is linked digitally to your passport. No sticker is placed in your passport.
Documents required: completed visa application form, valid passport, one passport-size photograph (4cm x 3cm, white background), confirmed return flight booking, accommodation confirmation for your entire stay, a detailed daily itinerary, three months of bank statements, and an employment certificate or business registration if self-employed.
The visa fee is ¥15,000 for single-entry and ¥30,000 for multiple-entry. Agencies may charge an additional service fee. Processing takes 3 to 5 business days in most cases.
Option 2: Apply in person at the embassy
You can apply at the Embassy of Japan in Manila or the Consulate General in Cebu. The same documents are required.
Health requirements
No vaccinations are required to enter Japan. There are no COVID-19 entry requirements.
Other entry requirements
All arriving passengers must complete a disembarkation card on the flight. Fingerprinting and photography take place at the port of entry. Cash or valuables over ¥1,000,000 must be declared at customs.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for a Japan visa without a travel agent?
Yes. You can apply directly at the Japanese embassy in Manila or the consulate in Cebu without using an agency. If you want to use the eVisa route, however, an accredited agency is required.
How early should I apply?
Apply at least two to three weeks before your departure date to allow for processing and any additional document requests.
Can I use a Japan visa for multiple trips?
If you apply for and receive a multiple-entry visa (¥30,000), you can enter Japan more than once within the visa validity period.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Japan?
Japan does not require travel insurance for entry. However, medical costs in Japan are substantial, and taking out insurance is recommended.
Can I work on a short-stay visa?
No. Short-stay visas are strictly for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. Paid work is not permitted.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying a visa in Japan results in deportation and a ban on re-entry. Always depart before your authorised stay expires.