Japan Will Open New Visa Center in the Philippines Starting April 2025

VFS Services Philippines Private, Inc.

To enhance people-to-people exchanges and streamline visa processing, the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines is set to open a new Visa Center on April 7, 2025. Operated by VFS Services Philippines Private, Inc., the Visa Center is designed to manage the growing volume of visa applications post-pandemic, ensuring efficiency and quality service for Filipino travelers.

Strengthening Japan-Philippines Relations Through the Visa Center

Japan and the Philippines share a deep and enduring friendship. As part of efforts to strengthen this relationship, especially through people-to-people exchanges, the Embassy of Japan is launching a dedicated Visa Center in April 2025. This move responds to the surge in visa applications since travel resumed after COVID-19.

The Visa Center aims to:

• Enhance processing efficiency.
• Maintain high-quality examination standards.
• Promote easier and more accessible travel between the two countries.

Visa Center Start Date and Locations

The official start date for the new Visa Center operations is April 7, 2025, provided all circumstances permit. VFS Services Philippines Private, Inc. will manage five key locations across the Philippines:

• Metro Manila:
  • Parañaque: Level-3, Parqal Abaca Building 5, Aseana City
  • Makati: Ground Floor, Makati Circuit Corporate Tower Two
  • Quezon City: Level 3, Gateway Tower Mall, Araneta City
• Provincial Offices:
  • Cebu: 7th floor, Faustina Center, Bonifacio District
  • Davao: Second Floor, Alfresco Area, Felcris Centrale

Online Appointment Booking:
Begins March 19, 2025 via the VFS Global appointment website.
Help Desk Email:
info.Japanphp@vfshelpline.com

Transition from Accredited Agencies

Visa applications received by previous Accredited Agencies before April 7, 2025, can still be submitted directly to the Embassy until April 6, 2025. This ensures a smooth transition to the new system without disrupting applicants already in process.

Digital Advancements in Japanese Visa Processing

In line with modernizing processes, the Japanese government has also introduced key digital updates:

• 1. Digitized Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
  Starting March 17, 2025, Japan Immigration now accepts applications for a digitized Certificate of Eligibility. This reduces paperwork and expedites visa processing.
• 2. Acceptance of Photocopies of Japanese Documents
  From the same date, photocopies of documents issued or prepared in Japan are now accepted in place of the original documents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Japanese Visa Applications

• Q1: Who qualifies for a multiple-entry visa?
  A: Tourists, cultural/intellectual figures, and spouses of Japanese nationals may qualify. Validity ranges from 5 to 10 years depending on the category.
• Q2: How can I apply for a multiple-entry visa?
  A: Submit the “Reason for requesting multiple entry visa” form along with other required documents based on your travel purpose.
• Q3: Can I use a tourist visa for business activities?
  A: Yes, as long as activities fall within the “Temporary Visitor” scope (e.g., meetings, inspections). No paid activities are allowed.
• Q4: What is the maximum duration of stay for first-time “Temporary Visitor” visas?
  A: Stays can be 15, 30, or 90 days, depending on your travel purpose and itinerary.
• Q5: What if I have more than one purpose for visiting Japan?
  A: Submit documents for both purposes. The visa granted will depend on the main reason and whether both purposes meet criteria.
• Q6: Can I apply for a visa if I’ve been deported from Japan before?
  A: Yes. Each application is assessed individually. Be honest and provide all necessary information regarding past deportation.
• Q7: Do I need to submit original documents?
  A: For Japanese-issued documents, photocopies are accepted. For others, originals are required, unless you provide a valid reason.
• Q8: Can I apply for a short-term visa while waiting for a COE?
  A: No. You must wait until you receive your Certificate of Eligibility before applying for the corresponding visa.
• Q9: Why are visa applications submitted through agencies and not directly to the Embassy?
  A: To avoid long queues and fraudulent activities, the Embassy started accepting visa applications via accredited travel agencies in 2007. Some exceptions allow direct submission, detailed on the Embassy’s website.

A Milestone in Bilateral Cooperation and Travel Facilitation

The launch of Japan’s Visa Center in April 2025 marks a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation and travel facilitation between Japan and the Philippines. With more streamlined processes, digitization, and broader access across the country, Filipino travelers will enjoy a more efficient and secure way to apply for a Japanese visa.

For the latest updates and online reservations, visit the official VFS website or contact the help desk. Whether you're planning a family visit, business trip, or cultural exchange—Japan is ready to welcome you.

For more information, visit Embassy of Japan in the Philippines website "Visa/Consular Services page".

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