If you’re missing a Japan visa requirement like the ITR, write a cover letter that’s addressed to the Embassy. Our sample follows below.

In a nutshell
- If you’d like to apply for a Japan tourist visa but have no ITR to present, you may opt to write a letter of explanation. Writing a letter is not required but may help support your Japan visa application.
- You may also draft a cover letter if there’s some information about you that you think may affect the outcome of your Japan visa application.
- Note that while submitting a cover letter can help explain your circumstance or background, it does not automatically guarantee approval of your Japan visa application.
- A cover letter for Japan visa applicants can be broken down into three parts: a quick introduction of yourself, the reason for writing to the Embassy, and a brief explanation or statement. A sample is provided below.
- If you decide to write a cover letter, make sure to print it on an A4-size paper.
- After writing your letter of explanation, check out the best Express Pass offers for Universal Studios Japan here.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Your Japan Visa Application
If, for some reason, you are unable to comply with a Japan visa requirement like the Income Tax Return or ITR, you may write a short letter of explanation addressed to the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines. Here’s a sample that you may also use as a template (note that I’ve labeled the paragraphs using the alphabets A-D for easy reference):
Date
Embassy of Japan in the Philippines2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, 1300
Metro Manila, Philippines
Dear Sir/Madam:
(A)
I am writing this letter to explain why I am unable to present an Income Tax Return (ITR) for my visa application.
(B)
I just started work as a freelance editor two months ago, and I have yet to process my ITR. However, my target date to secure this document is April 2023.
(C)
For your reference, I have attached my work orders and contracts in the next page. I also included my bank certificate and statements in this application to show the steady income that I am receiving from my clients.
(D)
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 for 5 days, if given a single-entry Japan tourist visa.
Thank you for reviewing my application.
Respectfully yours,
Signature
Your name
What to Write in Your Japan Visa Cover Letter
Let’s break down the sample Japan visa application cover letter above:
1. Letter introduction
Here you will need to share why you’re writing a Japan visa cover letter, i.e. because you are missing the ITR. The goal is to let the visa officer know from the very beginning your reason for writing. (The officer may receive a lot of letters, so go straight to the point!)
“I am writing this letter to explain why I am unable to present an Income Tax Return (ITR) for my visa application. ”
2. Reason & intent
Briefly explain in 1-3 sentences why you’re missing the requirement, and let them know that you will undertake steps to obtain the lacking documents in the future.
“I just started work as a freelance editor two months ago, and I have yet to process my ITR. However, my target date to secure this document is April 2023.”
3. Supporting documents
Since you’re unable to supply a requirement, show them other documents that you do have. This will let the visa officer know that you have solid ties with your clients and that you have a solid financial capacity to fund your Japan trip.
“For your reference, I have attached my work orders and contracts in the next page. I also included my bank certificate and statements in this application to show the steady income that I am receiving from my clients.”
4. Purpose of your trip
Here you want to talk about your travel history and your intent to travel to Japan as a tourist. If it’s your first time traveling ever, you may want to add specifics of your travel purpose, i.e. it’s your dream to go to Osaka for Universal Studios Japan or want to experience Japanese culture even just for three days. Remember to keep it short and sweet!
“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 for 5 days, if given a single-entry Japan tourist visa. ”
Here are some activities and experiences that you may consider for your itinerary:
- Visiting Universal Studios Japan
- Touring Kyoto & Nara
- Sightseeing at Harukas 300
- Exploring Osaka Castle
- Going to the new Warner Bros Studios & learn more about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter!
Final Note
For visa applications, the objective is to show that you have strong ties in your home country, have plans on returning, and are financially able to fund your trip. If you are unable to prove all of these at the moment, you may want to proceed with your application at a later date (or when you have all the documents or change in circumstances) or write this cover letter that will explain more about your intentions and background.
Japan Travel Tip!
Make sure to get your Japan travel cards! If you’ll be in Tokyo, you can get the Suica IC card here. If you’ll explore Osaka, check out the price of the ICOCA IC Card here.
Oh, and make sure to get a reliable eSIM for Japan. Find the best options here.
Contact the Embassy
For inquiries on the visa application procedure, you may inquire from travel agencies or contact the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines through the following numbers:
- Embassy of Japan in the Republic of the Philippines: +632 834-7514
- Consular Office of Japan in Cebu: +63 32 231-7321 to 22
- Consular Office of Japan in Davao: +63 82 221-3100
You may also email them at ryoji@ma.mofa.go.jp.