Applying for a Japan visa as a Filipino depends a lot on where you’re applying from.
I’ve done both — in the Philippines through an agency, and later in Abu Dhabi directly through the embassy. The experience is slightly different, but the core idea stays the same.
Prepare your documents properly and keep everything clear.
Applying from the Philippines (Through Agency)
In Manila, Japan visa applications go through accredited agencies.
In my case, I applied through Friendship Tours in Dusit Thani Makati.
The process was simple:
Submit documents to the agency
They check everything
They forward it to the embassy
No interview.
You just wait for the result.
Applying from the UAE (Embassy Submission)
In Abu Dhabi, the process is more direct.
You submit your application to the Japan Embassy.
No middle agency involved.
Still no interview in most cases. Just document submission and waiting.
Basic Requirements
Requirements are similar whether in PH or UAE:
Passport
Visa application form
Photo
Bank certificate
Employment certificate
Travel itinerary
Additional documents may be requested depending on your situation.
Single Entry vs Multiple Entry
You don’t apply directly for “multiple entry.”
You apply for a visa, and the embassy decides what type to give you.
It can be:
Single entry
Multiple entry
Duration per stay can also vary.
Processing Time
Usually takes a few working days.
No need for long waiting periods compared to other visas.
What Helps Your Application
From experience, these factors matter:
• travel history
• previous Japan visa
• complete documents
• stable employment
It’s not guaranteed, but these improve your chances.
Final Thoughts
Japan visa isn’t the hardest to get, but it still requires preparation.
Once you get a multiple-entry visa, everything becomes easier. You don’t need to go through the process again every time.
And if you plan to visit Japan more than once, that makes a big difference.
