The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines announced that tourist visa applicants will not need to pay a visa fee, except for processing and optional service fees, as five new Japan Visa Application Centers (JVACs) open on April 7.
Managed by VFS Global, the centers will charge a ₱520 processing fee, while visa fees still apply for long-term stay visas. Additional services, like a ₱1,500 premium lounge, will also be available.
Accredited travel agencies can still process applications but must coordinate with VFS Global. Starting April 6, agencies will no longer accept new applications, but pending ones will still be processed.
The new visa centers will be in Makati, Parañaque, Quezon City, Cebu, and Davao. Travelers are advised to apply early to avoid delays.
