Tourism group wants simpler Japan, Korea visa process for Pinoys with US, Canada visas

A travel industry group has proposed to exempt Filipinos with valid tourist visas issued by the United States or Canada from regular visa processing when traveling to Japan and South Korea.

The Global Tourism Business Association said this proposal will instantly allow Filipinos to apply online and immediately acquire their visas for the two Asian countries. 

“Essentially, it simplifies travel to Japan and Korea. If we want to be at par with other countries that are streamlining their tourism targets, we need to think in terms of what could lessen the friction for travelers,” GTBA president Michelle Taylan said in a press release on Wednesday. 

“We have to remember that USA and Canada tourist visa holders have already gone through a stringent application process,” she added.

She noted that in 2025, over 390,000 Filipinos traveled to the US and Canada, while over 660,000 visited Japan, and 190,000 flew to South Korea.

She said the proposed exemption would increase tourist arrivals, boost local economies, and even strengthen people-to-people relations.

Other countries with similar policies include Singapore and Turkey, Taylan noted. 

She added that this exemption will also support the Philippines’ goal to promote local destinations and enhance its global image, potentially leading to increased inbound tourism and economic growth. 

The group is seeking support from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) to push the initiative forward.

“It would be a win-win for Japan, Korea, and the Philippines. They would see an increase in tourist arrivals, boosting their local economies and creating new business opportunities, while Filipinos would enjoy easier travel, cultural exchange, and economic benefits from increased travel and trade,” Taylan said.

Meanwhile, she thanked Japan Ambassador Endo Kazuya for welcoming them and extended her gratitude to Consul Masakazu Yamazaki and Minister for Economic Affairs Yokota Naobumi for the discussion on their proposal.

“We met with the Japanese Embassy, and they were receptive to our proposal. It was a productive meeting, and we're grateful for their support and consideration,” she added. — JMA, GMA Integrated News