Starting June 23, 2025, the Japanese government will mandate all Filipino applying for a mid- to long-term visa or Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to submit mandatory tuberculosis (TB) clearance before entering Japan. This new health initiative, the Japan Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (JPETS), aims to prevent the spread of active TB.
To comply, applicants must visit accredited Panel Clinics in the Philippines to undergo TB screening, such as the IOM Manila Health Centre, Nationwide Health Systems, Inc., or St. Luke’s Medical Center Extension Clinic. They will undergo chest X-ray and, if necessary, further medical tests. Upon clearance from active TB, applicants will receive a TB Clearance Certificate, which must be submitted alongside their visa or COE applications. Failure to provide this certificate will delay or reject visa applications.
This new health screening requirement is part of Japan’s efforts to enhance public health and safety by controlling tuberculosis transmission within its borders. By following the JPETS protocols, they not only safeguard their health but also contribute to the broader health goal of preventing the spread of TB in Japan, the Philippines, and other countries.
