Have you applied for a Japan visa and was subsequently approved for it? Is it a multiple entry visa? If yes, then you are in luck because four more countries just opened for you ‘visa-free!’
The Japanese passport is strong, in fact it ranks number 1 based on the 2024 Henley Passport Index. They share the number one spot with Singapore, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain’s passports. Contrast that to Philippines which landed at number 73 out of 199 passports for the same ranking period. Now, if you have been granted a Japan visa, you stand a bit stronger.
Same with having a United States visa, an approved visa to Japan can open up other nations for you to explore, without the rigorous process of applying for a visa from each country. Which countries are these? Georgia, Panama, Mexico, and Montenegro.
PANAMA
Whether you’re interested in natural wonders, historical landmarks, or vibrant city life, Panama has something to offer for every traveler. And if you are a Philippine passport holders with a multiple-entry visa with six (6) months of remaining validity for Japan, you can stay for a maximum of 30 days in their country.
Here are key points for entering Panama without applying for a visa for Filipino citizens:
You have a valid passport with a minimum of three months validity.
You have a multiple entry visa with six (6) months of remaining validity from ONE of the following countries: Canada, United States of America, Commonwealth of Australia, Republic of Korea, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland North, Republic of Singapore, any of the States that make up the European Union, and yes, Japan too.
You must have used this visa to enter the country. For example, if you have a visa from the Japan, you must have entered Japan with that visa in order to qualify for the exemption.
You must also show proof of financial capability or economic solvency for a minimum of US $ 500.00 upon entering.
You must make sure you have a minimum of three months of validity in your passport and a round trip ticket or onward ticket to your next destination.
The maximum amount of time that you can stay in Panama is 30 days.
MONTENEGRO
Montenegro is a beautiful destination offering a perfect blend of stunning coastline, dramatic mountains, and rich history. Philippine passport holders can enter this country without applying for a visa, if you have an approved multiple entry visa to Japan .
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Validity: Ensure your Japanese visa is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Montenegro and has been issued within the last 10 years.
Proof: At the border, you may need to show your valid Japanese visa along with your Philippine passport.
Duration of Stay: Typically, you can stay in Montenegro for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under this arrangement. Always verify the exact duration allowed before your trip.
GEORGIA
Georgia is a remarkable destination with a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. You can enter Georgia with a Philippine passport if you hold a valid Japanese visa, for tourism purposes.
Here’s a general outline of the requirements:
Visa-Free Entry: If you have a valid multiple-entry visa from Japan, you can enter Georgia without needing to obtain a separate Georgian visa. The visa must be valid for at least 3 months from the date of entry into Georgia.
Proof of Visa: When entering Georgia, you may need to show proof of your valid Japanese visa at the border. It’s a good idea to carry both your passport and a copy of your Japanese visa.
Length of Stay: The visa-free stay for travelers with a valid visa from Japan is usually up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
MEXICO
A Philippine passport holder with a valid Japanese visa can enter Mexico without needing a separate Mexican visa. This policy allows travelers with certain visas from select countries to enter Mexico under specific conditions.
Here are the key details:
Valid Visa: Your Japanese visa must be a multiple-entry visa and valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry into Mexico.
Proof: You will need to show your valid Japanese visa when entering Mexico. Ensure you carry both your passport and a copy of your Japanese visa.
Duration of Stay: This visa exemption typically allows for a stay of up to 180 days in Mexico.
GENERAL TIPS
Check for Updates: Since immigration policies can change, it’s always a good idea to check the most current entry requirements with the embassy or consulate of the country you wish to visit, before your trip. To start your re-checking, visit the official websites of Georgia, Montenegro, Panama, and Mexico.
Complete Documents: Ensure that all your documentation is in order before traveling will help you avoid any issues at the border. Make sure that your passport have at least 6 months of validity upon entering the country you want to fly to. Your valid multiple-entry Japan visa is stamped / printed / attached on your passport.
If you have valid visas from member states of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), then check with the embassy of your target country because they may have exemption for you from acquiring a visa for short term stay. OECD member countries includes USA, UK, Canada, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, and more.
Find more articles related to visas and passport on our website, like this latest news about Thailand granting 180 days visa for Filipinos.
Follow us on Facebook for the latest airfare promos and travel guides – Piso Fare PH. Thank you.