Japan Work Visa Types: Complete Guide to 16 Categories, Requirements & Application 【2025 Update】

Overview

The “Professor Visa” is a status of residence for those engaged in research or education at higher education institutions such as universities or colleges of technology. Typical examples include university professors, associate professors, assistant professors, and full-time lecturers.

By contrast, teaching at elementary, junior high, or high schools, as well as language schools, falls under the “Instructor Visa.” Research work at private research institutes is classified under the “Researcher Visa.” Therefore, eligibility depends on the institution you belong to.

Eligible Activities

• Giving lectures at universities or graduate schools, managing seminars
• Supervising student research and managing laboratories
• Participating in academic societies or research projects

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months
• (The period is determined case by case. Renewal is possible.)

Main Application Documents

Most documents are prepared by the university and the applicant.

Documents prepared by the university

• Employment contract or letter of appointment
• University profile (establishment basis, organizational chart, etc.)
• Materials describing assigned courses or research activities
• Documents proving ability to pay salary (financial statements, legal reports, etc.)

Documents prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Research plan (if available)
• Resume and documents proving work history

Key Examination Points

• Whether the activities fall under the definition of “Professor” (i.e., university-level teaching or research supervision)
• The university’s structure and stability (ability to pay salary, organizational continuity)
• Clear distinction from other visas (high school/language school → Instructor Visa; research outside universities → Researcher Visa)

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Can I receive payment for outside lectures or translation work?”
• → Activities not included in your visa require a Permission to Engage in Activities Other Than Permitted.

• “Can part-time lecturers apply under the Professor Visa?”
• → It may be approved depending on the case, but whether the income is sufficient to sustain your livelihood will be crucial.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Employment at a university is confirmed
2. University applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After issuance of the COE, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad
4. Upon entry to Japan, a Residence Card is issued and work may begin

Overview

The “Artist Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals who engage in artistic activities as their profession in Japan. Eligible individuals include composers, painters, sculptors, photographers, novelists, and others who make a living through creative activities.

It is important to note that this visa is granted only for professional artistic activities. Hobby-level or side-job artistic activities are not eligible.

Eligible Activities

• Composition, performance, singing activities
• Creative work such as painting, sculpture, photography
• Literary activities (novels, poetry, criticism, etc.)
• Performing arts such as dance and theater

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Materials showing artistic background and achievements (list of works, awards, publications, etc.)
• Contracts or letters of request (from publishers, music labels, etc.)
• Materials proving expected income (royalty contracts, payment statements, etc.)

Key Examination Points

• Artistic Achievements: Whether the applicant’s work is recognized, such as awards, publications, or contracts with professional entities
• Economic Independence: Whether the applicant can make a living through artistic activities
• Continuity of Activities: Whether the activities are ongoing and sustainable, not just one-time projects

FAQs & Common Issues

• “I paint as a hobby. Can I get this visa?”
  → No. It must be professional artistic activities with income generation.
• “Can I switch from a Student Visa to an Artist Visa?”
  → Sometimes achievements during student years are considered, but professional contracts or income prospects are still required.
• “Can I do part-time work while pursuing my art?”
  → If the activity is outside the scope of the Artist Visa, you will need a Permission to Engage in Activities Other Than Permitted.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Prepare documents showing achievements and contracts
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin artistic activities

Overview

The “Religious Activities Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals who engage in missionary work or other religious services in Japan.
Typical examples include missionaries or monks dispatched by overseas religious organizations to conduct missionary or church activities in Japan. It is also common for applicants to be affiliated with a Japanese religious corporation.

Eligible Activities

• Missionary work and conducting worship services at churches or temples
• Performing religious ceremonies, weddings, and funerals
• Providing spiritual guidance and education to followers
• Religious publishing, sermons, and counseling activities

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the applicant and related organizations

• Application form and photo
• Letter of recommendation / dispatch certificate from the sending religious organization
• Profile of the sending organization (certificate of establishment, description of activities, etc.)
• Certificate of acceptance and activity plan from the Japanese religious corporation
• Proof of expected living expenses (salary, allowances, donations, or other financial support)

Key Examination Points

• Credibility of the Sending Organization: Actual existence and track record as a religious organization
• Religious Nature of Activities: Must be purely religious activities (not general education or profit-making activities)
• Living Base: Whether the applicant can sustain their livelihood in Japan through salary, donations, or support from the organization

FAQs & Common Issues

• “If I engage in volunteer church work, can I apply?”
  → No. Unpaid voluntary work alone is not sufficient. A system ensuring living expenses must be in place.
• “Can I be affiliated with a Japanese religious corporation instead?”
  → Yes. In such cases, proof of the corporation’s legal status and an activity plan are required.
• “Can I do part-time work outside my missionary activities?”
  → To receive income from non-religious activities, you must obtain a Permission to Engage in Activities Other Than Permitted.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Sending religious organization prepares a recommendation letter or dispatch certificate
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in cooperation with the Japanese host corporation
3. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin religious activities

Overview

The “Journalist Visa” is a status of residence for foreign journalists and staff who engage in news gathering, editing, and reporting activities while residing in Japan. Typical applicants include reporters, photographers, and editors employed by overseas newspapers, news agencies, television stations, and magazine publishers.

In principle, this visa requires dispatch from an affiliated media organization. Freelance journalists are generally not eligible.

Eligible Activities

• Reporting and writing articles for newspapers, magazines, and news agencies
• Producing and filming TV or radio news programs
• Taking and distributing news photographs or videos
• Supplying news content to overseas headquarters or bureaus

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the applicant and affiliated media organization

• Application form and photo
• Dispatch certificate or certificate of employment from the affiliated media organization
• Plan of reporting or journalistic activities
• Employment contract or copies of salary statements
• Company profile and registration documents of the media organization

Key Examination Points

• Credibility of the Media Organization: Whether it is a legitimate entity engaged in continuous journalistic activities
• Journalistic Nature of the Activities: Must be strictly limited to reporting and news gathering (advertising or PR activities are not included)
• Stable Source of Income: Whether the applicant can sustain their livelihood through remuneration

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Are freelance journalists eligible?”
  → Generally no. A dispatch certificate from a legal entity is required.
• “Can I also do commercial filming aside from reporting?”
  → Profit-making activities outside of reporting are not permitted. To engage in such activities, a Permission to Engage in Activities Other Than Permitted is required.
• “Can I also conduct reporting overseas while staying in Japan?”
  → Yes, but the visa is granted on the premise that Japan is the applicant’s reporting base.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Affiliated media organization prepares dispatch certificate and employment documents
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin journalistic activities

Overview

The “Highly Skilled Professional Visa” was introduced in 2012 as a preferential immigration scheme for foreign nationals.
Applicants are evaluated on a points-based system that considers academic background, professional career, annual income, research achievements, and other factors. A score of 70 points or more is required to qualify.

Unlike ordinary work visas, this status comes with a wide range of benefits. Eligible applicants include researchers, corporate professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Eligible Activities

• Researchers engaged in academic or institutional research
• Highly skilled professionals working in Japanese companies (engineers, consultants, managers, etc.)
• Entrepreneurs or business executives

Period of Stay

• Initially granted as Highly Skilled Professional (i) for 5 years
• Once requirements are met, it can be upgraded to Highly Skilled Professional (ii), which grants indefinite residence

Major Benefits

• Permanent residency application possible in as little as 1 year (compared to the usual 10 years)
• Longest possible initial period of stay (5 years → then indefinite)
• Spousal work restrictions eased (spouse can work in a wide range of fields)
• Permission to bring parents to Japan (with conditions)
• Permission to bring domestic staff (with conditions)
• Fast-track immigration procedures (priority processing for applications and re-entry)

Main Application Documents

• Application form and photo
• Proof of academic and professional background (diplomas, employment certificates, etc.)
• Documents proving annual income (tax certificates, pay slips, etc.)
• Research achievements and publication list (for researchers)
• Employment contract and company profile (if employed by a company)
• Points calculation sheet with supporting evidence

Key Examination Points

• Accuracy of the points calculation (must meet or exceed 70 points)
• Stable income level and job description
• Reliability of the employer or business (additional points may be given if the employer is a listed company or a recognized “host institution”)

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Is 70 points always required?”
  → Yes. Applications with less than 70 points cannot be approved.
• “What changes if I have 80 points or more?”
  → You may apply for permanent residency after just 1 year.
• “Should I choose this visa over a standard work visa?”
  → If you meet the requirements, the Highly Skilled Professional Visa offers significantly more advantages.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Prepare a points calculation sheet (collect supporting documents)
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After COE issuance, apply for the visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin activities as a Highly Skilled Professional

Overview

The “Business Manager Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals who establish and operate a company in Japan, or who engage in managing Japanese companies as executives or senior managers.
Typical applicants include entrepreneurs, investors, or individuals dispatched from overseas headquarters to manage a Japanese subsidiary.

In recent years, screening has become stricter, with particular emphasis on office requirements and capital requirements.

Eligible Activities

• Establishing and managing a corporation (e.g., joint-stock company or LLC) as a representative director
• Serving as a branch manager or corporate executive of a Japanese subsidiary
• Expanding business operations in Japan as a foreign investor and assuming management responsibility

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 4 months
• (Note: For first-time applicants, the visa is often granted for 4 months. After confirming that the business has a real presence, renewal examinations typically follow.)

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the company

• Certificate of registered company details (Commercial Registry)
• Articles of incorporation and business plan
• Office lease contract and photos (dedicated office space required)
• Proof of capital payment (bank transfer statement, etc.)
• Documents related to employee hiring (employment contracts, etc.)

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Resume (showing management-related experience)
• Proof of assets or income sufficient to cover living expenses

Key Examination Points

• Capital Requirement: Generally, an investment of at least 5 million yen is required
  (Note: There have been discussions about raising this threshold to 30 million yen—latest updates must be checked carefully)
• Office Requirement: A real, independent office is required (shared offices or virtual offices are often not accepted)
• Business Continuity and Stability: Practicality of the business plan and hiring plan will be closely examined

FAQs & Common Issues

• “If I establish a company, will I automatically get the visa?”
  → No. Company registration alone is not enough. Immigration authorities will examine whether the business has substance (office, funds, and personnel).
• “Can I use my home as the office?”
  → In principle, a dedicated office space is required. SOHO or virtual offices are generally not accepted.
• “Do I have to hire employees?”
  → If you invest at least 5 million yen, hiring is not mandatory. However, hiring employees is viewed positively in the examination.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Establish a company (registration, capital payment, office lease)
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin business operations

Overview

The “Legal/Accounting Services Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals who engage in professional legal or accounting work in Japan, such as attorneys and certified public accountants.

Typical cases include:

• Foreign nationals who have acquired Japanese qualifications such as attorney, patent attorney, or judicial scrivener
• Registered foreign lawyers (Gaikokuho-Jimu-Bengoshi) permitted to provide legal services based on their home country’s law
• Certified public accountants or tax accountants working in Japan

In other words, this visa is limited to highly specialized professionals who work based on nationally recognized qualifications.

Eligible Activities

• Practicing law at a law firm with a Japanese bar qualification
• Working as a certified public accountant or tax accountant, supporting corporations and individuals
• Providing legal services as a registered foreign lawyer under home-country law
• Handling patents and intellectual property work as a patent attorney

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the applicant and affiliated organization

• Application form and photo
• Qualification certificate (e.g., bar registration, CPA registration)
• Employment contract or business consignment contract with the affiliated office or firm
• Profile of the law/accounting firm or company (Commercial Registry, brochure, etc.)
• Proof of remuneration (contract details, salary statements, etc.)

Key Examination Points

• Validity of Qualifications: Whether the applicant has acquired and registered the necessary qualifications to work in Japan
• Specialization of Activities: Limited strictly to legal and accounting services (general office work or sales duties are not included)
• Income Stability: Whether the applicant can maintain a livelihood through their professional work

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Can I work in Japan with only a foreign law qualification?”
  → No. To practice, you must be registered as a foreign lawyer (Gaikokuho-Jimu-Bengoshi) in Japan. A home-country qualification alone is not sufficient.
• “Are paralegals or support staff eligible?”
  → No. General clerical staff are not covered. They need a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa.”
• “If I want to work at an accounting firm, what qualification do I need?”
  → Registration as a certified public accountant or tax accountant is required. Merely assisting without a license does not qualify.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Register qualification (e.g., bar registration, CPA registration)
2. Conclude an employment or consignment contract
3. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
4. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
5. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin legal/accounting services

Overview

The “Medical Services Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals who work in Japan as licensed medical professionals such as doctors, dentists, and nurses.

Eligible applicants include those who have acquired Japanese medical-related national qualifications, as well as nurses and certified care workers coming to Japan under international agreements (e.g., EPA – Economic Partnership Agreements).

This visa is intended for those directly engaged in medical practice, nursing, or caregiving at medical institutions. Support staff and clerical workers are not eligible.

Eligible Activities

• Practicing as a doctor or dentist in hospitals or clinics
• Working as a nurse or assistant nurse in medical institutions or facilities
• Providing care services as a certified care worker in elderly care facilities
• Working as an EPA (Economic Partnership Agreement) nurse or care worker candidate accepted under international frameworks

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the medical institution

• Employment contract
• Institutional profile (Commercial Registry, list of medical departments, etc.)
• Documents proving ability to pay salary

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Qualification certificates (medical license, nursing license, etc.)
• Resume and employment history
• Letter of recommendation from the dispatching organization (for EPA candidates)

Key Examination Points

• Validity of Qualifications: Whether the applicant possesses a Japanese medical-related qualification necessary to practice in Japan
• Eligibility of Employer: Whether the institution is a legally established medical facility
• Living Base: Whether salary and employment conditions allow stable livelihood in Japan

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Can I practice in Japan with only a foreign medical license?”
  → No. To practice medicine in Japan, you must obtain a Japanese medical license.
• “Can EPA nurse candidates work without a qualification?”
  → Yes. They may be accepted as candidates, but their visa is contingent upon passing the national examination.
• “Can I work in hospital administration under this visa?”
  → No. Clerical or administrative staff are not eligible. They need the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa.”

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Acquire the necessary qualification, or be accepted as an EPA candidate
2. Conclude an employment contract with a medical institution
3. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
4. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
5. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin medical services

Overview

The “Researcher Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals who engage in research activities at companies, government agencies, or research institutions in Japan.

It is distinct from the Professor Visa, which applies when the individual is engaged in both teaching and research at universities. The Researcher Visa applies when the activities are limited to research.

Typical examples include researchers employed at national research institutes or corporate laboratories to work on specific projects.

Eligible Activities

• Researcher at a national research institute or independent administrative agency
• Basic or applied research at a corporate research laboratory
• Researchers engaged in government-commissioned research projects
• Foreign researchers invited to Japan under a research contract

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the host institution

• Employment contract or letter of appointment
• Profile of the research institution (Commercial Registry, brochures, etc.)
• Documents proving ability to pay salary

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Resume, documents proving academic and professional background
• Research plan (describing project details and duration)

Key Examination Points

• Specialization of Research: Whether the activities are genuine research, with concrete and specific plans
• Credibility of the Host Institution: Whether the institution has the capacity to conduct research continuously
• Financial Stability: Whether salary or research funding can sustain the applicant’s livelihood in Japan

FAQs & Common Issues

• “What if I both teach and conduct research at a university?”
  → In that case, the Professor Visa is generally required.
• “Are corporate R&D positions covered?”
  → Yes, provided that the employment contract defines the role as research and the activities are strictly research-related.
• “Is a visa required for short-term joint research?”
  → If the stay is long-term, a visa is required. For stays of only a few weeks, a short-term stay visa may be sufficient.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Conclude a research contract with the host institution
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin research activities

Overview

The “Instructor Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals who work as teachers at elementary, junior high, and senior high schools, specialized training colleges, and language schools in Japan.

If the applicant is engaged in teaching or research at a university or other higher education institution, the appropriate visa is the Professor Visa. The Instructor Visa primarily covers education at the compulsory education to high school level, as well as language education.

Eligible Activities

• Language instruction at public or private elementary, junior high, or senior high schools (e.g., ALTs under the JET Programme)
• Teaching at specialized training colleges or technical schools
• Foreign language teaching at language schools
• Teaching in municipal foreign language programs commissioned by local governments

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the educational institution

• Employment contract or letter of appointment
• School profile and authorization documents (establishment approval, brochures, etc.)
• Documents proving ability to pay salary (financial statements, statutory reports, etc.)

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Resume and academic certificates (e.g., university diploma)
• Certificate of employment history (if relevant teaching experience exists)

Key Examination Points

• Academic Background & Experience: Generally a university degree is required; for language education, prior teaching experience in the applicant’s native language is advantageous
• Eligibility of Employer: Whether the school is a legally established educational institution
• Income Stability: Whether salary and contract terms are sufficient to support the applicant’s livelihood

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Is ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) covered by the Instructor Visa?”
  → Yes. ALTs coming to Japan through the JET Programme are a typical example.
• “What if I teach a language at a university?”
  → That falls under the Professor Visa.
• “Does cram school (juku) or private tutoring qualify?”
  → No. Cram schools and private tutoring are not considered “educational institutions” for this visa.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Conclude an employment contract with the educational institution
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin teaching activities

Overview

The “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals who work in Japanese companies and other organizations using their specialized knowledge or skills.

It covers a wide range of professions, making it one of the most commonly used work visas in Japan. Typical examples include IT engineers, interpreters, sales staff, and designers.

However, jobs categorized as “simple labor” are not permitted under this visa, so clarifying the scope of job duties is extremely important.

Eligible Activities

• Technology / Engineering field: IT engineers, system development, mechanical design, manufacturing engineers
• Humanities field: Sales, marketing, accounting, consulting, translation/interpreting
• International services field: Language-based interpreting, trade operations, overseas business negotiations

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the company

• Employment contract
• Company registry certificate and company profile
• Recent financial statements and statutory reports

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Academic certificate (e.g., university diploma) OR proof of professional experience (generally 10 years, or 3 years for IT engineers)
• Resume and detailed work history

Key Examination Points

• Academic Background or Work Experience:
  • University degree (preferably related to the field of work), OR
  • At least 10 years of relevant professional experience (3+ years for IT engineers)
• Nature of Job Duties: Must not fall under “simple labor”
• Stability of Employer: Company’s financial soundness and ability to pay salaries

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Can I work as a restaurant hall staff?”
  → No. That is classified as simple labor. Instead, cooks fall under the “Skilled Labor Visa,” and caregivers under the “Nursing Care Visa,” etc.
• “Can I apply without a university degree?”
  → Generally no, but applicants with 10+ years of work experience (or 3+ years in IT) may still qualify.
• “What if I do both interpreting and clerical work?”
  → If the main duties fall under “International Services,” the visa may still apply.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Sign an employment contract with the company
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin employment

Overview

The “Intra-Company Transferee Visa” is a status of residence for foreign employees who are transferred from an overseas headquarters, branch, or subsidiary to a related company in Japan.

It is used for personnel transfers within corporate groups, and applies not to new hires in Japan, but to employees who have already been working at an overseas group company.

Eligible Activities

• Employees dispatched from an overseas headquarters to a Japanese branch or subsidiary
• Employees of a foreign subsidiary transferred to the Japanese parent company
• Temporary staff exchanges or training assignments within multinational corporate groups

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the company

• Transfer order or official assignment notice
• Company registry and documents proving the group relationship (parent-subsidiary or capital relationship)
• Company profile, financial statements, and documents proving ability to pay salaries

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Certificate of employment showing overseas work history (at least 1 year required)
• Resume

Key Examination Points

• Work Experience: The applicant must have worked for at least 1 year at the overseas group company
• Nature of Duties: The work in Japan must correspond to specialized activities under the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa
• Corporate Relationship: There must be a clear parent-subsidiary or capital relationship between the sending and receiving companies

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Can I do part-time work or simple labor under this visa?”
  → No. Activities are limited strictly to specialized professional work.
• “Can I apply if I have less than 1 year of overseas work history?”
  → No. At least 1 year of employment is a mandatory requirement.
• “Who pays the salary, the Japanese or overseas company?”
  → Either is acceptable, as long as the applicant reliably receives sufficient remuneration to maintain their livelihood.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Confirm at least 1 year of employment at the overseas entity
2. Issue an internal transfer/assignment order within the corporate group
3. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
4. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
5. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin work in Japan

Overview

The “Skilled Labor Visa” is a status of residence for foreign nationals engaged in occupations that require specialized, long-term practical skills.

Typical examples include foreign cuisine chefs, sports coaches, and craftsmen, where extensive work experience is required as a prerequisite.
Unlike other professional or technical visas, the Skilled Labor Visa is unique in that the experience itself forms the core eligibility criterion.

Eligible Activities

• Foreign cuisine chefs (e.g., Indian, Chinese, French cuisine, etc.)
• Sports instructors (professional team coaches, trainers, etc.)
• Artisans in jewelry, precious metals, or fur processing
• Airline pilots employed by commercial carriers
• Sommeliers or wine-brewing specialists, etc.

Period of Stay

• 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the employer

• Employment contract
• Company profile and registration documents (Commercial Registry, business description, etc.)
• Financial documents proving ability to pay salaries

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Proof of work history (employment certificates, recommendation letters, etc.)
• Qualification certificates (if applicable)

Key Examination Points

• Length of Work Experience: Generally at least 10 years of experience is required (e.g., chefs, artisans)
  • For certain occupations such as sports instructors or pilots, 5 years may be sufficient
• Specialized Nature of Skills: The skills must be ones not easily replaceable by Japanese workers
• Employer Eligibility: The workplace must appropriately utilize the applicant’s skills, and salary must be sufficient for living in Japan

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Are all cooks eligible for this visa?”
  → No. Only those specializing in their country’s cuisine are eligible. Japanese cuisine chefs are not covered.
• “How do I prove my experience?”
  → Certificates of employment and recommendation letters from past employers are required. Oral explanations alone are not sufficient.
• “Can I change jobs to a different industry after entering Japan with this visa?”
  → Generally no. Job changes are allowed only within the same skilled occupation category.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Conclude an employment contract with the employer
2. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
3. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin work

Overview

The “Specified Skilled Worker Visa” is a relatively new status of residence introduced in 2019 to allow foreign nationals to work in 14 industries facing serious labor shortages in Japan.

Applicants can obtain this visa by passing skills tests and a Japanese language test. Unlike other work visas, no educational background is required, making it accessible to a wider range of people.

Unlike the Technical Intern Training Program, which aims at skill transfer, the Specified Skilled Worker Visa is designed to accept foreign nationals as part of the workforce, recognizing them as immediate contributors in the labor market.

Covered Industries (14 Fields)

• Nursing care
• Building cleaning
• Materials industry
• Industrial machinery manufacturing
• Electrical/electronic information industries
• Construction
• Shipbuilding/marine industries
• Automobile maintenance
• Aviation
• Accommodation (hospitality)
• Agriculture
• Fishery
• Food and beverage manufacturing
• Food service (restaurants)

Period of Stay

• Specified Skilled Worker (i): Maximum 5 years (family accompaniment not permitted in principle)
• Specified Skilled Worker (ii): Renewable, possible indefinite stay, family accompaniment permitted
  (Currently, only certain industries allow the “ii” status, but expansion is under discussion)

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the host company

• Employment contract
• Company profile documents
• Support plan (living support, Japanese language assistance, consultation system, etc.)

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Certificate of passing the designated skills test
• Certificate of Japanese language proficiency (N4 level or higher)
• Resume and work history

Key Examination Points

• Skills Level: Whether the applicant has passed the designated skills test for the relevant industry
• Japanese Language Ability: Ability to communicate in daily life (equivalent to JLPT N4 or higher)
• Support System: Whether the employer has established proper support for living assistance and consultation

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Can I switch from Technical Intern Training to this visa?”
  → Yes. If you complete training in the same field, you may be exempted from the skills test when switching.
• “Can I bring my family to Japan?”
  → Not under Specified Skilled Worker (i). Family accompaniment is possible under Specified Skilled Worker (ii).
• “What level of salary is required?”
  → Foreign workers must be paid equal to or higher than Japanese workers in the same role. Applications may be denied if salary is set only at the minimum wage.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Pass the skills test and Japanese language test
2. Secure an employer and sign an employment contract
3. Host company prepares a support plan
4. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
5. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
6. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin employment

Overview

The “Technical Intern Training Visa” is a status of residence designed for foreign nationals—mainly from developing countries—to come to Japan, learn technical skills, and later contribute to the development of their home countries.

It has been widely used in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing. However, in practice, it has also functioned as a way to supplement Japan’s labor shortages, and the government has announced plans to abolish the system by around 2027 and transition it to a new framework called the “Training & Employment Program” (育成就労制度).

Eligible Activities

• Technical training in agriculture and livestock farming
• Skills acquisition in construction and manufacturing industries
• Training in the caregiving sector (added in 2017)
• Technical training in sewing, food processing, machine parts assembly, etc.

Period of Stay

Maximum 5 years (with staged progression through 3 levels)

• Technical Intern Training (i): Up to 1 year
• Technical Intern Training (ii): Up to 2 years (total of 3 years)
• Technical Intern Training (iii): Additional 2 years (total of 5 years)

Main Application Documents

Prepared by the host organization

• Technical training plan (must be certified by the Organization for Technical Intern Training, OTIT)
• Authorization of supervising organization, contracts
• Company registry and business profile documents

Prepared by the applicant

• Application form and photo
• Technical training contract
• Resume (including employment history in home country, etc.)

Key Examination Points

• Validity of Training Plan: The purpose must be skills acquisition, not simply labor supply
• Receiving Organization’s System: Whether the supervising and implementing organizations operate lawfully
• Working Conditions: Whether fair wages, proper working hours, and living environment are secured

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Can I switch from Technical Intern Training to the Specified Skilled Worker Visa?”
  → Yes. If you complete the training and remain in the same field, you may transfer to Specified Skilled Worker (i) without having to take the skills test.
• “Can I change employers during the training period?”
  → Generally no. However, if the host company goes bankrupt or commits misconduct, transfer may be allowed.
• “What will happen to this system in the future?”
  → The Japanese government has announced plans to abolish the program by 2027 and replace it with the “Training & Employment Program,” which will focus more explicitly on actual employment.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Coordinate with the sending organization and supervising organization
2. Submit the Technical Training Plan to OTIT for approval
3. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
4. After COE issuance, apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
5. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin technical training

Overview

The Diplomatic Visa and Official Visa are different in nature from ordinary “work visas.” They are statuses of residence granted to foreign nationals engaged in diplomatic or public service duties, such as diplomats, consular officials, or staff of international organizations.

These visas cover activities that may include receiving remuneration in Japan, but the purpose is not “employment” in the general sense. Instead, they exist to facilitate diplomatic and official duties.

Eligible Activities

• Diplomatic Visa: Ambassadors, envoys, consuls, and other diplomatic officials representing a foreign government in Japan
• Official Visa:
  • Staff of international organizations
  • Government officials dispatched by foreign administrations
  • Technical and clerical staff of foreign embassies and consulates

Period of Stay

• Diplomatic Visa: Determined according to the nature of activities (e.g., ambassador’s term of office)
• Official Visa: 5 years / 3 years / 1 year / 3 months (depending on duties)

Main Application Documents

• Application form and photo
• Certificate proving diplomatic or official duties (official documents from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the sending government)
• Profile documents of the affiliated institution (international organization, government body, etc.)
• Documents clarifying the duties (letter of appointment, assignment order, etc.)

Key Examination Points

• Nature of Activities: Must fall under diplomatic or official duties (not for commercial or profit-making purposes)
• Credibility of Affiliation: Must be an official dispatch from a foreign government or international organization
• Term of Stay & Assignment: Must have a clearly defined mission or assignment period

FAQs & Common Issues

• “Are Diplomatic and Official Visas the same as regular work visas?”
  → No. While remuneration is permitted, activities are strictly limited to diplomatic or official duties.
• “Can spouses and family members accompany the holder?”
  → Yes. Dependents of those on Diplomatic/Official Visas are eligible for Dependent Visas.
• “Can I transfer to a private company job with this visa?”
  → No. Once the diplomatic or official mission ends, the visa also becomes invalid.

Application Flow (Basic Process)

1. Appointment or assignment by a foreign government or international organization
2. Issuance of certification documents through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or receiving institution in Japan
3. Apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate
4. Enter Japan → Residence Card issued → Begin official duties