In an effort to enhance the experience of visa application process for Filipinos traveling to Japan, the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines has announced the opening of the Japan Visa Application Center (JVAC) in partnership with VFS Service Philippines, Inc. This new center aims to provide better service and convenience for applicants seeking visas to Japan.
“The Embassy of Japan (Philippines), places great importance in strengthening the people-to-people exchanges, which are a vital part of Japan and the Philippine bilateral relations. As we are going to mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of the diplomatic ties between Japan and the Philippines next year. We hope to promote people-to-people exchange,” the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines stated today with the press.
Starting from April 7, 2025, all visa applications will be exclusively processed at the Japan Visa Application Center. Meanwhile, the visa applications through the accredited travel agencies will only be accepted until April 6.
The embassy also revealed that travel agencies who are members or affiliates of reputable associations such as the PTAA or PIATA are now authorized to assist their clients in scheduling appointments, gathering necessary documents, and submitting them to the visa center for processing.
“The purpose of this transition is to enhance service efficiency and maintain visa quality amid a surge in applications post-Covid,” the embassy said.
Data reported by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) that at least 800,000 Filipinos visited Japan in 2024. Making the Philippines one of the top 23 markets for Japan.
Due to the high volume of applications, processing times may be extended. It is advised to apply well in advance of your travel date. VFS charges P520 for processing. The Tourist Visa is free but fees apply for other types of visas.
On the other hand, cases related to diplomatic or official passports, or urgent cases requiring humanitarian consideration, contact the Embassy for direct processing.
The new visa application process under the VFS system will require online appointment setting for the filing of documents through the VFS website starting from March 19. Document submission will begin on April 7 at any of the VFS centers located in Makati (GF Circuit Corporate Tower, AP Reyes Reyes St., Circuit Makati City), Parañaque (Level 3 Parqal Abaca Building, Aseana City, Paranaque), Quezon City (Level 3 Gateway Tower Mall, Araneta City Cubao, QC), Cebu (7F Faustina Center, Bonifacio District, Kasambagan, Cebu City), and Davao (2F Alfresco Are, Felcris Centrale, Quimpo Blvd., Davao City).
For more details on the application process, visit the Embassy of Japan website.