Tips on How to Apply for a Japan Tourist Visa without a Job and Income Tax Return Certificate in the Philippines (2023) 3/09/2023

Getting a VISA is always a daunting process, more so if we can’t provide some of the documents required. On the contrary, it can also be straightforward as long as you have everything ready. No matter what, it shouldn’t stop you from achieving your dream of traveling. 

In this article, I will share the steps and documents I submitted when I applied for a Japan visa without a job and Income Tax Return certificate in the Philippines, which is a primary requirement. To know if you have all the necessary papers, read my post on the required documents for Philippine Passport holder here.  

My Personal Experience: Documents Submitted When I Applied for Japan Tourist Visa Without an Income Tax Return Certificate in The Philippines

If you are reading up until this part, it means you have the same dilemma like I had or you probably can’t provide some documents. Take heart, if there’s a will, there’s a way. You can still apply for a visa and with luck and prayers, you might get one as well. 

Firstly, you have to assess the documents you can’t provide and what you can as a replacement. From the list of supporting documents I’ve written, check which one you do have. Since you are missing a required document, you will need to submit more supporting documents instead. Gather and submit your application including a cover letter that explains your situation. 

REMINDER: Be transparent in your letter and explain why you can't provide the document. 

Below is my personal experience when procuring a visa:

Agency Name: Discovery Tour, Makati (check the address here)

Amount paid to the agency: 1,200 PHP

Visa Type: Tourist Visa (Single Entry)

NOTE: Japan Visa is free-of-charge for Filipinos, but there is visa handling fees that you will pay at the travel agency of your choice.

Documents Submitted and Received by the Agency: 

1. 3.5 x 4.5 cm PHOTO (with full name and date of birth written at the back)

2. Explanation Letter in Lieu of ITR

3. Original Bank Balance Certificate

4. PSA Marriage Contract (Valid 1 year) - ORIGINAL

5. PSA Birth Certificate of Applicant  (Valid 1 year) - ORIGINAL

6. Visa Application Form

7. Passports (new and old)

8. Guarantee Letter

9. Tour Itinerary

Supporting Documents

11. Apartment  Lease Contract 

12. Hotel Booking Confirmation

13. Sponsor (Husband) Passport

14. Sponsor’s Bank Balance Certificate (online certificate)

15. Sponsor’s Tax Certificate (previous job)

Submission of the supporting documents might help you get your visa successfully,  or it may not. Nobody can guarantee the result - it is the discretion of the Visa officer. However, one thing I always do that helps me getting a visa successfully is be completely transparent. If there are some documents missing, I explain everything in a cover letter and let the Visa Officer know my situation. They are trained to check every loophole and have a hawk's eye, therefore, I don’t give them any loophole to deny my application. Also, if you are in a hurry to know the decision of your visa application, I suggest that you message the agency for updates  if they already have your passport. As per my experience, the staff in the agency told me that the application would be processed in five business days and come back after to collect my passport, but upon checking my visa stamp, it was approved and stamped the next day after I submitted my application! 

NOTE: For the list of accredited agencies in Manila, please check here.