This post is about how I got my Japan Multiple Entry Visa in one shot. It was my very first time applying for a Japan tourist visa. I did not apply for multiple entry, but luckily, I got one.
I thought I share here how I got it and what I did. Our Multiple Entry Visa is valid for five years, and it allows us to travel to Japan in 30 days for five years.
The best thing about this post is I’m going to share two experiences: one for self-employed (mine) and another one for employed applicant (my sister) who got our multiple entry visas in one shot for the first time.
Two weeks ago, I found very cheap flights to Tokyo using airlinepromo.net. Yes, I am always using that site when I search for the cheapest airfare. Now, you should too. My sister and I booked roundtrip flights right away even though we did not have our tourist visa yet.
Just imagine the nervousness and excitement of booking in advance without an approved visa. We were confident anyway because we gathered our complete documents (see the list and tips below) before lodging our application.
How I Got My Japan Multiple Entry Visa?
The first thing I did was gather the documents required before our application. I prepared the following documents (listed below) and submitted them to the agency. The cover letter was not needed, but I made sure I submitted one. I also made one for my sister, and she got a multiple entry visa, too.
Our cover letters had different content, though, but I mentioned why we really love to visit Japan and what makes it so special.
Japan Multiple Entry Tourist Visa Requirements in the Philippines:
For self-employed applicants:
- Japan Tourist Visa Application Form (I got one from the agency)
- 2×2 photo (4.5 cm x 4.5 cm) – paste this on the application form
- Original PSA Birth Certificate (released same year)
- Original Passport
- Original Bank Certificate
- Income Tax Return (ITR)
- Daily Schedule in Japan
- Cover Letter (optional)
- DTI Permit
- Mayor’s Permit
For employed applicants:
- 2×2 photo (4.5 cm x 4.5 cm) – paste this on the application form
- Original PSA Birth Certificate (released the same year of application)
- Original Passport
- Original Bank Certificate
- Income Tax Return (ITR) – BIR Form 2316
- Certificate of Employment
- Daily Schedule in Japan
- Cover Letter (optional)
Japan Multiple Entry Tourist Visa Application Procedures in the Philippines
1. Submit Your Complete Documents
The first tip I can share is to make sure you submit the complete documents required for your visa application, whether you are employed or not. Your documents must be consistent with the personal information you have provided on the application form.
2. Prepare a Simple Daily Schedule of Stay in Japan
Follow the specific requirements and format, including the Daily Schedule in Japan. The Daily Schedule in Japan is a tough job to make because you will need hotel reservations.
No worries, you can make hotel reservations even without paying in advance, and you can list your accommodation on your Daily Schedule. Booking.com allows hotel reservations without payment.
3. Submit a Cover Letter
Also, make a cover letter indicating your keen reasons why you love to travel to Japan. Japanese are very much appreciative. Make a heartfelt letter about the reasons why you love to visit their country.
I think it was one of the reasons why we got Multiple Entry Visa. I shared a cover letter sample for Japan tourist visa application on this page: “Japan Tourist Visa Cover Letter.“
Note that the letter is only an example. You still need to create your own letter that matches your itinerary and journey to Japan.
4. Prove Your Financial Capacity
Some people say that the money on your bank certificate matters when applying for a tourist visa. In my opinion, you can get approved even if your bank account is not 7-digit as long as you can afford the expenses on your travel.
My sister got her 5-year Multiple Entry Visa, and she had around 150,000 on her bank certificate. If you are traveling to Japan for five days, for example, around 80,000 on your account would do. I think they will issue you a visa as long as you have a decent job, a decent bank account, and strong reasons you will be returning to your home country.
You must prove your financial capacity to afford your whole travel to Japan. It’s another thing when you have a sponsor who will shoulder your travel expense. In that case, you would need to submit some supporting documents on your visa application.
Check out this helpful travel guide: “Japan Travel Guide for Beginners with Sample Itinerary.”
Disclaimer: This article is based on personal experiences. It is for information purpose only and should not be considered as travel expert advice. If you are not sure about your visa application, seek a professional visa advisor to assist your travel needs and services.
