ICYMI: Philippine passport holders can now get Japan e-visas—here's how

Planning your next Japan adventure just got easier!

As of its May 15 update, the Japanese government has expanded the JAPAN eVISA system to include Filipino travelers residing in the Philippines. This means eligible tourists can get their entry permits online and, best of all, the financial requirements have been eased for this specific route. Because of this, Filipino travelers can skip the stress of requesting bank certificates, bank statements, and Income Tax Return.

However, for Philippine passport holders living in the Philippines, there is a bit of a catch. The eVISA is given only for those joining a packaged tour organized by a Japan-approved travel agency.

When filling out your online form, make sure all details are correct and requirements are complete to avoid any delays or cancelations.

According to the memo, the Japanese embassy still holds the right to call you in for a face-to-face interview if they feel the need to ask further questions.

The eVISA gives you a single-entry pass to Japan for a maximum stay of 15 days, and it's only available for regular passport holders flying in.

If you are heading to Japan for business, visiting family, studying, or starting a new job, the eVISA won’t work for you. For any of those long-term or non-tourism trips, you’ll still need to apply directly to the Japanese Embassy or Consulate to get that physical sticker stamped into your passport.