Visas and entry for studying in Philippines
Check the entry and permit rules and the working holiday conditions, with official sources.
Entry and permits for Philippines
- Entry and permits
30days
Stay without a visa (from the day of arrival)
59days
Total after a 29-day extension at the Bureau of Immigration
36months
With an ACR I-Card (from the day of entry)
Japanese citizens visiting for tourism or business for up to 30 days from the day of arrival do not need a visa in advance and are granted a 30-day permit to stay on entry.
The Philippine government says entry requires registration on eTravel and a ticket showing you will leave the country.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: Philippines safety basic data (visas and entry)
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Get free adviceFrequently Asked Questions
Can I go to the Philippines without a visa?
Japanese citizens do not need a visa in advance for tourism or business stays of up to 30 days (counted from the day of arrival). The Philippine government says entry requires registration on eTravel and a ticket showing departure. It has announced that holders of passports from certain countries, including Japan, can enter even with less than 6 months of validity left, but Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends a passport valid for the planned stay plus 6 months.
Do I need a visa for language study?
Short language study needs a Special Study Permit (SSP) from the Bureau of Immigration rather than a visa. An SSP is issued to foreign nationals under 18 and/or taking non-degree courses, under the temporary visitor's visa. Study for a degree or credits needs a student visa.
Can I stay longer than 30 days?
Yes. Get the required visa before entry, or extend your permit by up to 29 days at the Bureau of Immigration before it expires (59 days in total). With an Alien Certificate of Registration I-Card (ACR I-Card) you can stay up to 36 months counted from the day of entry. Keep the receipts from these procedures.