Filipino travelers applying for Japan visas can submit their applications through accredited travel agencies even as VFS Global prepares to open its Japanese visa application center (JVAC) on April 7. VFS Global has been selected by the Japanese Embassy in Manila to manage the JVAC.

Travelers can either book appointments directly via the JVAC website or through agencies affiliated with the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) and the Philippine IATA Agents Travel Association (PIATA).

In a statement made on March 20, VFS stated: “All visa applicants or their travel agents will have to book a prior appointment by visiting our website before coming to our centers to submit their applications.”

Registered travel agencies can submit visa applications for their clients to JVACs in various cities including Cebu, Davao, Makati, Parañaque, and Quezon City, provided they have the necessary authorization from applicants.

Changes in Current System

Under the existing system, the Japanese Embassy in Manila accepts visa applications from select accredited travel agencies. The embassy has mentioned that travel agencies providing Japan visa services must now coordinate with VFS Global as this now constitutes commercial activities between the visa center and the agencies.

VFS Global clarified that no formal agreement is needed as long as the travel agents can verify their membership in PTAA and PIATA. Travel agents are advised to visit the VFS Global website for detailed documentation and related inquiries.