Q1: In what cases can I apply for a multiple-entry visas?
A1: For visas for short-term stay, there are multiple-entry visas for tourists (maximum visa validity: 5 years) and multiple-entry visas for cultural or intellectual figures (maximum visa validity: 10 years). The latter can be used as tourist or for visiting relatives/acquaintances as well from the second visit. There are also multiple-entry visas for spouse of a Japanese national. Please refer to the relevant items of “Types of Visa” section, such as Item 16 and 17.
Q2: How can I apply for a valid multiple visa?
A2: When applying for a multiple-entry visa, you must submit a form “Reason for requesting multiple entry visa”. Depending on the purpose of the trip, applicant must submit additional documents to show that they are qualified for a multiple-entry visa. Please refer to the relevant items of “Types of Visa” section, such as Item 16 and 17. Please note that submitting a form “Reason for requesting multiple entry visa” does not guarantee the issuance of multiple visa. In the case where a multiple-entry visa is not issued, if required documents for application of a single-entry (or double-entry) visa are submitted, the examination for the visa will be also made accordingly.
Q3: I obtained a multiple-entry visa (30 days stay) valid for 5 years and traveled to Japan for tourism/pleasure purposes. Is it possible to use this visa when travelling to Japan next time for commercial purposes?
A3: If you wish to stay within 30 days and your activities are within the scope of “Temporary Visitor” (Sightseeing, recreation, sports, visiting relatives, inspection tours, participating in lectures or meetings, business contact or other similar activities during a short stay in Japan), you can use this visa to travel to Japan. However, when you arrive in Japan, you must submit an immigration card stating your purpose and be examined by an immigration officer.
Please note that there are certain activities which are not permitted as a “Temporary Visitor”, such as remunerated activities. If you wish to go to Japan to engage in such activities as paid/remunerated activities, please get a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying for a proper visa.
Q4: If I apply for a “Temporary Visitor” visa for the first time, can I only apply for a maximum stay of 15 days?
A4: The periods of stay for a short term visa is either 15 days, 30 days or 90 days. The examination will be made according to your purpose and schedule.
Q5: If I have two or more purposes for the travel to Japan such as “tourism” and “commercial”, how should I apply?
A5: Please prepare the documents required for the main purpose of the trip. However, if you prepare and submit required documents for each purpose, the examination will be made for each purpose for the travel. The appropriate visa will be issued if the criteria for the issuance of visa is met for one of the purposes.
Q6: Is it possible to get a visa even if I have been deported from Japan before?
A6: The examination of visa applications is based on individual circ*mstances, and the past deportation does not automatically mean your visa application will be denied. If you have violated law and regulations in the past or have been deported, your application will be examined based on such fact. The application form has a space for history of deportation and violations in the past, so please properly fill out the form in detail.
Q7: Is it necessary to submit original documents?
A7: As of documents issued/prepared in Japan, you can submit its photocopy instead of the original. For other documents, you need to submit the original. However, for old pictures and documents which you wish to keep the original, you may submit a copy and attach a letter to explain the reason you cannot submit the original.
Q8: I have an application for Certificate of Eligibility in Japan, can I apply for a short term visa, while waiting for the result of my Certificate of Eligibility?
A8: No. You have to apply your visa after obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility.
Q9: Why does the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines accept visa application through accredited travel Agencies instead of directly accepting them?
A1: Before the system of filing through agencies was implemented, visa applicants had to queue and wait for a long time at the Embassy. Also, there were cases where applicants were made victims of buying and selling fraudulent documents by fraudsters in front of the embassy. Because of these situations, in July 2007, the Embassy of Japan started the system of visa application through accredited travel agencies.
However, there are cases where visa application may be filed directly at the Embassy of Japan.
For details, please refer to https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_ja/00_000251.html 1. (2) [General Information for visa application].
