Japan eases visa requirement for 3 countries

MANILA, Philippines - Japan has begun a relaxation of visa requirements for Philippine nationals, the Japanese embassy in Manila announced on Tuesday.

The changes to visa requirements, which will also apply to Indonesia and Vietnam, were announced at a meeting for the promotion of Japan as a tourism-oriented country.

 “From September 30 the substantial relaxation of multiple visas will commence for these three countries. Specifically, in addition to the relaxation of visa issuance requirements, the period of validity will be extended for up to five years,” the embassy said.

 For applicants residing outside of their country of origin, it will now be possible to apply at the diplomatic mission that has jurisdiction over their place of residence.

 The embassy said from November, application process for those traveling on single tourist visas would be simplified, as long as they were traveling as part of a package tour with a registered travel agency.

 These measures are expected to contribute to Japan’s goal of attracting 20 million foreign visitors.