Japan Working Visa

Written by Mike Arnold Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Mike Arnold

Mike is a freelance writer with eight years of experience and a love for travel, all things business, tabletop games and green tea.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: September 13, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

Japan has been a global economic powerhouse with a unique blend of tradition and innovation for years and is always an attractive prospect for skilled professionals from around the world.

As of June 2024, Japan has established working holiday programs with 30 countries and regions, further expanding opportunities for international workers.

Whether you're an engineer, IT specialist, or possess specialised skills in another field, the Japan Working Visa can be your gateway to a fulfilling career in this fascinating country.

 

What are the eligible professions for the Regular Work visa?

Japan's Work Visa welcomes skilled professionals from various fields beyond the highly skilled or those on working holidays. If you have expertise in a specific occupation, you may qualify for this visa.

Here's a breakdown of the professions that qualify for the regular Work Visa:

Creative fields

• Artist: This broad category welcomes various creative professionals, including painters, sculptors, photographers, and craft artisans.
• Entertainer: This visa suits performers, musicians, actors, singers, dancers, and models who have secured engagements or contracts in Japan.

Education and research

• Professor: University professors, assistant professors, and other academic staff at recognised institutions can apply under this category.
• Instructor: This visa caters to teachers at elementary, intermediate, and high schools.
• Researcher: Researchers and investigators at research institutes or universities can pursue their academic pursuits in Japan with this visa.

Business and professional services

• Business manager: This category is for company presidents, directors, and other high-level executives who oversee and manage business operations in Japan.
• Legal/accounting services: Attorneys, judicial scriveners, certified public accountants, and tax accountants can apply under this category.
• Medical services: Physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, and other licensed medical professionals are eligible for this visa.
• Engineer/specialist in humanities/international services: This broad category covers various professions, including engineers, IT specialists, foreign language teachers, interpreters, copywriters, and designers.
• Intra-company transferee: This visa is for individuals transferring to a Japanese branch, subsidiary, or affiliate of their current employer.

Other specialised fields

• Religious activities: Religious workers such as monks, bishops, and missionaries can apply under this category.
• Journalist: This visa is for journalists, editors, news cameramen, and announcers working for media organisations.
• Nursing care: Certified care workers providing essential care services can apply for this visa.
• Skilled labour: This category encompasses various skilled trades, including chefs specialising in foreign cuisine, animal trainers, pilots, sports trainers, and sommeliers.
• Specified skilled worker: this relatively new category is for foreign nationals with specific skills and experience in certain industrial fields identified by the Japanese government.
• Technical intern training: This visa is for individuals participating in technical intern training programs in Japan.

If you possess the skills and qualifications required for one of these professions, you may be eligible for a Work Visa; allowing you to fill these vacancies and begin or continue a life in Japan.

What documents are required for a Japan work visa application?

To get a Japan Work Visa, you must carefully prepare and submit several documents to prove you're eligible and qualified.

Essential documents

• Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This crucial document is issued by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan and confirms that you meet the requirements to enter Japan for your intended work purpose. Your employer or sponsor in Japan typically applies for the COE on your behalf.
• Japan work visa application form: You'll need to complete and sign the official visa application form, providing accurate and detailed information about yourself, your employment, and your background.
• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay in Japan.
• Passport-size photos: Provide two recent passport-size photos that meet the specific Japanese specifications for visa applications.
• Employment documents: Include documents detailing your position in the company or organisation, your expected salary, and the duration of your employment contract.
• Academic and professional history: Provide documents attesting to your educational qualifications and professional experience, such as diplomas, degrees, transcripts, and employment certificates.
• Company/organisation documents: Submit relevant documents related to the receiving company or organisation in Japan, such as company registration, statement of profit and loss, and other financial documents.

Additional documents based on profession

Depending on your specific profession, you may need to provide additional documents:

• Artists: Submit evidence of your artistic achievements, such as exhibition catalogues, awards, or press coverage.
• Religious workers: Include documents detailing the religious organisation sending you to Japan, the receiving Japanese organisation, and your religious position and career.
• Researchers: Provide documents related to the receiving research institution and your academic qualifications.
• Instructors/teachers: Submit documents related to the receiving educational institution and your academic qualifications or teaching licence.
• Intra-company transferees: Provide documents attesting to the relationship between the overseas and Japanese branches or companies.

Important considerations

• Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Before applying for the Work Visa, your employer or sponsor in Japan must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf. You can find a checklist of this here.
• Additional documents: The Japanese embassy or consulate may request further documentation depending on your profession and individual circumstances.
• Originals and copies: Submit original documents along with photocopies.
• Translations: If your documents are not in Japanese or English, you must provide certified translations.
• Legalisation: Some documents may require legalisation or apostille, depending on the issuing country.

By meticulously preparing and submitting all required documents, you can demonstrate your qualifications and eligibility, increasing your chances of a successful Japan Work Visa application.

How to apply for a Japan work visa

The application process for a Japan Work Visa involves two distinct stages: obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and then applying for the visa itself.

Step #1 - Obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in Japan

• Employer's responsibility: Your employer or sponsor in Japan is responsible for applying for the COE on your behalf. They must submit various documents to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, including your personal information, details about your employment, and evidence of your qualifications.
• Your role: You'll need to provide your employer or sponsor with all the necessary documents, such as your passport, academic transcripts, and employment certificates.
• Processing time: The COE application process can take up to three months, so it's important to start this process well in advance of your intended travel date.
• COE is not a visa: Remember that the COE is not a visa itself; it's a document that confirms your eligibility to apply for a work visa.

Step #2 - Applying for the Japan work visa

Once your employer or sponsor has obtained the COE, they will send it to you. You can then use it to apply for the actual Work Visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

• Contact the Embassy/Consulate: Get in touch with the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate to inquire about the visa application process and any specific requirements. Some representative offices may require you to apply through an accredited travel agency or visa application agency.
• Gather required documents: Compile all the necessary documents, including the COE, completed visa application form, passport, passport-size photos, and any additional documents based on your profession.
• Submit your application: Submit your visa application either directly at the embassy/consulate or through the designated travel agency or visa application agency.
• Attend an interview (if required): The embassy or consulate may request an interview to further assess your eligibility and intentions in Japan.
• Collect your visa: Once your visa application is processed, you'll need to return to the embassy or consulate to collect your passport. If your application is approved, your passport will contain the Japan Work Visa, allowing you to enter the country.

By following these steps and providing all the required documentation, you can navigate the Japan Work Visa application process effectively and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

What to do after entering Japan with a work visa

Congratulations on obtaining your Japan Work Visa! Now you've arrived in Japan, there are a few essential steps to complete to ensure your stay is legal and hassle-free.

1. Landing permit: Upon arrival at a Japanese port of entry, you'll receive a Landing Permit. This document replaces your visa and is your official permission to enter and stay in Japan for your intended work purpose.
2. Residence card:
   • If you enter Japan through Narita, Haneda, Kansai, or Chubu Airport, you'll receive your Residence Card along with the Landing Permit.
   • If you enter through any other port, you must visit the local municipal office where you'll be residing to obtain your Residence Card.
3. Registration at the municipal office: within 14 days of establishing your residence in Japan, you must register at the local municipal office (also known as the Ward Office) in your area. Your address will be printed on your Residence Card.
4. Re-entry permit (if applicable):
   • Required for stays exceeding one year:If you plan to leave Japan and return within one year, you only need a Special Re-Entry Permit, which you can obtain at the airport before departure.
   • Required for stays over one year: If your stay outside Japan exceeds one year, you'll need to apply for a Re-Entry Permit at the Immigration Bureau before leaving the country.

By completing these steps, you'll ensure your legal residency status in Japan and avoid any complications during your stay.

Talk to a visa consultant

Navigating the visa application process, understanding the specific requirements for your profession, and securing the necessary Certificate of Eligibility can be a complex endeavour.

Don't let these challenges hinder your aspirations to work in Japan. Partnering with an experienced visa consultant can make your journey smoother and more successful. They can provide expert guidance, streamline the application process, and increase your chances of a positive outcome.

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