Japan waives Visa fee for tourist travelers, 5 visa centers opens on April 7

DAVAO CITY—Once Japan’s new visa centers officially open, Travelers applying for a tourist visa, whether for single or multiple entry, will not be required to pay a visa fee, except for center usage fees and additional services.

On Wednesday, the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines announced that five Japan Visa Application Centers (JVACs), managed by VFS Global, will begin operations on April 7 in Cebu City, Davao City, Makati City, Parañaque City, and Quezon City.

The embassy clarified, “We do not impose any fee for a visa, at least for tourism visas. ” However, visa centers and travel agencies may charge processing fees.

Although tourist visas remain free, other visa categories, such as long-term stay visas, may incur a fee depending on nationality and application type.

The JVAC will require a PHP520 center usage fee, payable upon application. Additional services will also be available, including a PHP1,500 premium lounge for a personalized visa submission experience.

The embassy confirmed that reputable travel agencies will still be permitted to accept and submit applications on behalf of travelers. However, these transactions must be well-coordinated with VFS Global as they fall under commercial arrangements between agencies and the visa center.

Ahead of the JVAC opening, visa applications are still being processed through a limited number of accredited agencies. However, after April 6, these agencies will no longer accept applications. Passports for applicants who applied before the cutoff date will still be released through the same agency where the application was submitted.

The Embassy of Japan advises tourist visa applicants to submit their applications well before their intended travel date to avoid delays.