Japan is studying measures that could further ease travel requirements for Filipinos, including the possibility of visa-free entry, Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo said.
Endo said the issue remains one of the questions he is most frequently asked by Filipinos as Japan continues efforts to streamline visa application procedures.
“Actually, this is one of the most frequently asked questions against me. Our embassy has been making steady efforts to improve and streamline the application processes,” Endo said.
He added, “We will continue to explore what better further arrangements may be possible going forward.”
While no policy change has been announced, Endo said Japanese authorities continue to examine possible arrangements that could further ease travel requirements for Philippine passport holders. He said public safety, national security, economic considerations, and social impacts are among the factors being considered before any decision is made.
Japan has introduced several measures in recent years aimed at simplifying travel procedures for Filipinos. The Japanese government has expanded eligibility for multiple-entry visas and opened dedicated visa application centers to accommodate growing demand. An electronic visa system has also been introduced for travelers joining package tours organized by accredited travel agencies.
In 2024, Japan expanded eligibility for simplified requirements for certain Filipino applicants seeking multiple-entry visas. The country also began allowing holders of Philippine diplomatic passports to enter without a visa in October 2024.
The development comes as the Philippines and Japan commemorate the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations in 2026. Japan remains one of the Philippines’ largest sources of official development assistance, foreign investment, and tourists, while exchanges between the two countries continue to grow.
Ordinary Philippine passport holders still require a visa to enter Japan. No timeline has been announced for any decision on visa-free entry.
