Got questions? Find answers to your visa inquiries and more in our Frequently Asked Questions!
FAQs
- How to submit the Japan Visa Requirements?
Complete the necessary Japan Visa Requirements and kindly visit and submit them to our Main Office or any branches. - Why does the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines accept visa applications through accredited travel agencies rather than accepting them directly?
Before the implementation of the system that allows visa applications to be filed through agencies, applicants often had to endure long queues at the Embassy. Additionally, there were instances of applicants falling victim to scams involving the buying and selling of fraudulent documents right outside the embassy. To address these issues, the Embassy of Japan introduced the visa application system through accredited travel agencies in July 2007. - What is the valid paper size of the documents upon submission?
All downloadable forms available on the Japan Embassy website, including the Visa Application Form, Invitation Letter, Itinerary, and others, must be in A4 size. Additionally, documents provided by the guarantor or inviter from Japan must also adhere to A4 size specifications. However, bank certificates issued in the Philippines are acceptable in either long or short size formats.
Downloadable Forms Link: https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000035.html - What is the duration of the application review period?
The standard processing time is five working days from the day following the submission of the application. However, if additional checks are needed—such as submitting more documents, undergoing an interview, or making inquiries—or if the visa application is for a long-term stay without a Certificate of Eligibility, the review may take longer than five working days, potentially ranging from several weeks to several months. Therefore, it is advisable to submit your application well in advance of your planned departure date. - My departure date is approaching. Could you please expedite the visa issuance?
We cannot determine whether to approve or deny the visa application until the necessary review is complete. We process applications fairly, in the order they are received. Please apply for the visa as soon as your travel plans are finalized. - I have applied for a Certificate of Eligibility in Japan. Can I apply for a short-term visa while I wait for the results of my Certificate of Eligibility?
No, you must apply for your visa after receiving your Certificate of Eligibility. - Can I extend my stay after entering Japan on a “Temporary Visitor” visa? Is it possible to change from a “Temporary Visitor” status to another status of residence once I’m in Japan?
For extending your period of stay or changing your status of residence after entering Japan, please contact the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. However, there must be special circumstances to change your status from “Temporary Visitor.” - Could you explain the reason for the rejection of my visa application?
The reason for the rejection is that your application did not fulfill the criteria for visa issuance. We cannot provide specific details about the rejection, as this information could be used to circumvent the visa examination process for illegal or inappropriate purposes. Sharing such details could hinder proper future visa assessments and negatively impact Japanese society. - Why was my visa application rejected despite the issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility?
The Certificate of Eligibility does not guarantee that a visa will be issued. It simply indicates that the Ministry of Justice has confirmed the foreign national meets the conditions for landing in Japan, that the intended activity upon entry is legitimate, and that it qualifies for the residence status specified in the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, among other regulations. Consequently, if the application is found not to meet the visa issuance criteria during the examination process, a visa may be denied. - Can I reapply right away after my visa application has been rejected?
We do not accept your visa application if your previous application was rejected for the same purpose of visit within six months of that rejection. However, there are instances where applications may be accepted for humanitarian reasons. Please consult with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate where you intend to apply before submitting your application.
