Japan embassy aims to process Filipino tourist visas within 5 working days

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Japanese embassy in Manila has reaffirmed its commitment to processing Filipino tourist visas within five working days, after advising applicants to submit their requests at least two months in advance.

In a new advisory, the embassy stated that it will continue to make efforts to complete visa procedures within five working days after applications are submitted by accredited travel agencies.

“In light of the unprecedented surge in visa applications, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, the Embassy of Japan is currently in the process of transitioning its screening system,” the embassy said.

“As part of this process, we have been recommending that visa applications for tourist purposes be submitted to the Embassy two (2) months in advance since January of this year,” it added.

Tokyo emphasized that the improved visa processing time reflects Japan’s commitment to strengthening people-to-people ties with the Philippines. For official and commercial purposes - such as business, conferences, cultural exchanges, and long-term stays - visa applications will continue usual procedures.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, nearly half a million Filipinos visited Japan in 2024. From January to August 2023, the Japanese government recorded 496,300 Filipino tourists, marking a 35.1% year-on-year increase.