If you have no ITR to submit for your Japan visa application, write a cover letter that’s addressed to the Embassy.
Highlights
- Submitting a cover letter is an optional step in the Japan visa application process.
- If you are missing a requirement like the Income Tax Return (ITR) or would like to explain something else about your visa application, you can use our sample and template below.
- The letter of explanation has to be formal and must be printed on an A4-size paper.
- When you’re done applying for a Japan visa, don’t forget to check out this money-saving metro pass in Osaka that you can book with WAUG — Korea’s #1 travel activity booking platform!
Explore more: How to Apply for a Japan Tourist Visa: Requirements & Process in the Philippines
Sample Cover Letter to the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines
If, for some reason, you are unable to comply with the Income Tax Return or ITR requirement for Filipinos, you may write a short letter of explanation that’s addressed to the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines. A sample is provided below:
1. Date, Address, & Salutation
In the first few parts of your Japan visa application cover letter, indicate the date when you plan to apply, the address of the Embassy, and the salutation.
Date
Embassy of Japan in the Philippines
2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, 1300
Metro Manila, Philippines
Dear Sir/Madam:
2. Introduction
Directly state what you are writing about so that the visa officer will know your purpose right away. Keep your introduction 1-2 sentences short, like the following sample:
Good day! I am writing this letter to explain why I am unable to present an Income Tax Return (ITR) for my visa application.
3. Reason
In the following portion, explain why you are lacking the requirement and assure the visa officer about your plan to obtain one in the future, like I did below:
I just started work as a freelance web designer three months ago, and I have yet to process my ITR. However, my target date to secure this document is on April 2020.
Of course, you can customize this part if you are writing to explain something else, like your professional background or financial circumstances.
4. Supporting Documents
After providing your reason/s, let the visa officer know that you have supporting documents prepared, if any.
For reference, I attached a copy of my project contracts in this letter. I also included my Certificate of Earnings and bank statements to show the steady income that I am receiving from my clients.
5. Purpose of Travel
The final part of your letter of explanation is where you want to demonstrate that you’ll travel to Japan for leisure. Tell them about your travel history and plans as a tourist, like in the following sample:
With my remote work and freelance set-up, I have made it a lifestyle to travel. I have been to South Korea, Taiwan, and Malaysia in the last 5 years, where I spent time doing leisurely activities. This year, I hope to explore Tokyo and Osaka for 7 days, if granted a visa.
6. Closing & Name Block
End your cover letter by thanking the Japan visa officer and adding a complimentary close.
Thank you for reviewing my application.
Respectfully yours,
Signature
Your name
7. Signature
Print the cover letter of your Japan visa application on an A4-size paper, then sign using a black pen.
Specifying Your Purpose of Travel in the Cover Letter
While writing a cover letter may seem daunting, the part where you prove your purpose of travel can actually be quite fun. After all, this is where you get personal. If you would like to express your (or your family member’s) interest in Japanese food, culture, tourist attractions, and others, write it down. Just remember to keep it short. The more you share your interests and itinerary plans (specific attractions and activities), the more it may help the visa officer know what you have in mind for your trip.
If you’re not that familiar with the experiences that await you in Japan, here are some sites in Tokyo and Osaka that you may want to consider:
- Universal Studios Japan™
- Abeno Harukas 300, Kyoto Railway Museum & Toei Kyoto Studio Park via Explore West Japan All Pass
- Naruto Theme Park
- Tokyo Kimono Rental
- Tokyo Disneyland® & DisneySea
If you are looking to travel to other destinations this year — be it South Korea, Taiwan, US, France, or New Zealand — you will also find the best experiences on WAUG! Start fulfilling your travel goals by downloading the WAUG app here. (Awesome benefits await new members!)
Cover Letter for Japan Visa: Downloadable Template
If you would like to have an editable Japan visa cover letter template, click here. If you want to start from scratch, you may want to use the font style Arial or Times New Roman and size 11 or 12.
All the best!
Good luck in writing your cover letter and hope you successfully obtain your Japan visa! If you have any tips to share, let us know in the comments section below.
