Japan Embassy clarifies visa fees for Philippine passport holders
After the announcement about the five-fold increase in visa application fees for foreigners, the Japanese Embassy clarified whether Philippine passport holders will be affected by the move.
According to the Japanese government, starting July 1, foreigners applying for single-entry visas, will have to pay ¥15,000 (about P5,668), a marked increase from the current ¥3,000 (about P1,150). Those seeking multiple-entry visas over a set period will be charged ¥30,000 (about P11,337), a fee that is currently at ¥6,000 (about P2,300).
However, Philippine passport holders need not worry.
"Please note that Temporary Visitor Visa (for stay within 90 days at maximum) for Philippine Nationals remains as gratis," the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines announced on Facebook, confirming Filipino citizens applying for a temporary tourist visa will not be charged a visa-processing fee.
The same information is reflected on its website.
Because of the increasing number of applications, Filipino tourists hoping to visit Japan are advised to send their tourist visa applications "well ahead of your travel date" as turnover may take several weeks. Once the application is submitted by the Visa Center, however, the Embassy "will continue to make efforts to expedite the process."
Take note that if you are applying for a Single-Entry visa for tourism purposes, its three-month validity begins from the date of issuance. Plan your application not earlier than three months before your date of travel.
