Just when you think that having a Japan Visa (specially the Multiple-Entry’ Visa) is already convenient enough as it allows you to have more freedom to explore Japan without needing to apply for a Visa every single time. Well that’s true, but that’s not all, because it is a lot more powerful than that. Having a Valid Japan Visa, also opens the doors of 4 other countries. Yes that’s right, ‘4 MORE’ OTHER — VISA-FREE — COUNTRIES! Do you know how comforting that is? Let me tell you that it will save you so much time, effort, money, and any potential visa rejections! But just before we celebrate, let’s find out first how we can take advantage of these amazing perks?

Please be guided, that you MUST have a Valid Japan Visa in the entire duration of your travel to any of these countries. If you don’t have it yet, then you definitely need to consider applying for one. ‘Multiple-Entry’ Visa is the practical option to maximize these perks. READ THIS: JAPAN MULTIPLE-ENTRY VISA Guide for Filipinos (Step-by-Step)

NOTE: This is only applicable for Philippine Passport Holders!

I. 4 Countries Filipinos Can Visit “Visa-free” with a Valid Japan Visa

Originally, Taiwan and Turkey were part of the list, but as you have probably know, Taiwan already opens their doors to Filipinos for stays of up to fourteen (14) days ‘Visa-free’ (extended until July 31, 2021), so that’s even more convenient! Unfortunately, Turkey doesn’t accept Japan Visa anymore and only limited it to Filipinos with a Valid US, UK, Schengen, and Ireland Visa/s. Still, there are 4 other countries! So without further ado, here are 4 countries you could visit with your valid Japan Tourist Visa;

1. GEORGIA

Georgia is nestled between Asia, Europe, and some of the highest mountains in Caucasus. That’s right, it’s located in the region where East meets West, so you can expect a blend of different cultures with diverse energy that phantom in the country!

Together with your valid Japan Visa, you can enter Georgia ‘Visa Free’ for a stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This is also available to Filipinos with a valid US, UK, Australia, and South Korea Visa/s. Remember that Visa-free = Worry-free, ohhh and a saving of 20 USD from Georgian E-Visa, Yay!

Where To Go? Tbilisi Old Town, Narikala Fortress, Uplistsikhe, Vardzia, Royal baths, and of course, the ‘Snow-Capped Mountains’ are some of the country’s most interesting attractions!

2. MONTENEGRO

Montenegro is one of the youngest countries, but has so much history and natural wonders to offer to the world! Kotor Old Town would be the best example, as it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as a living breathing museum!

With a valid Japan Visa, you can enter Montenegro ‘Visa Free’ for a stay of up to 30 days, but no longer than the expiry of visa (if less than 30 days). This also applies to Filipinos with a valid US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Schengen, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, and Ireland Visa/s. So, that’s approximately a savings of 150 EURO! Ka-Ching! Ka-Ching!

Where To Go? Kotor Old Town, Durmitor, Herceg Novi, Lovćen, Sat Kula, Castle of San Giovanni, and of course, Tara Canyon, also known as Europe’s deepest canyon!

3. MEXICO

Mexico is your gateway not just to some of the most historical landmarks, but also to some amazing food cultures in the world! Tacos, tortillas, burritos, you name it!

If you hold a valid Japan ‘Multiple-Entry’ Visa, you can enter Mexico ‘Visa Free’ for a stay of up to 180 days. This is also applicable to Filipinos with a valid ‘Multiple-Entry’ Visa or ‘Permanent Residence’ status to any of the following countries: US, UK, Canada, and Schengen area (or European members). Plus, a savings of around 1,800 PHP and the hassle from applying a Mexican Visa (including Consul Interview)!

Where To Go? Cancún, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, Mérida, Tulum, and the chance to visit One of the 7 Wonders of the World; Chichén-Itzá!

4. PANAMA

Panama is located in Central America, bridging the land that gaps North and South America also known as the “Crossroads of the Americas.” This tiny country is packed with so much culture, history, and biodiversity offering a unique experience to its visitors!

Owning a valid Japan ‘Multiple-Entry’ Tourist Visa, you can enter Panama without needing to apply for a Panama Tourist Visa. This is also applicable to Filipinos with a valid ‘Multiple-Entry’ Visa or ‘Permanent Residence’ status to any of the following countries: US, UK, Australia, Canada, South Korea, Singapore, and Schengen area (or European Union members). So, that’s a savings of 60 USD from the Panama Tourist Visa!

Where To Go? Casco Viejo, Coiba, Panama Canal, Panamá Viejo, and San Blas Islands are some of the country’s most spectacular sights!

To put this into perspective — if you ever dream to travel the world, then you have 4 countries of visa applications, LESS TO WORRY ABOUT! And approximately 300 USD (around 15,000 PHP) savings from Visa Fees!