Types of visa you can get to stay in Japan
Japan offers various types of visas for individuals who wish to live and work in the country. This website is listing the specific types of visas and their requirements with up-to-date information from the Embassy of Japan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Summary:
🗼 What type of Visa do I need?
🗻 How to get a Temporary Visitor Visa in Japan
💻 How to get a Digital Nomad Visa in Japan
🎓 How to get a Student Visa in Japan
👷 How to get a Work Visa in Japan
👨 How to get a Business Manager Visa in Japan
💃 How to get a Cultural Activities Visa in Japan
✍ What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and do I need one?
📆 How long does it take to get a Japanese visa?
💴 How much does a Japanese visa cost?
💁 Can I work in Japan on a Temporary Visitor Visa?
📋 Can I extend my visa once I’m in Japan?
👜 How long can I stay in Japan with a Tourist visa?
🚃 Do I need a visa if I’m just transiting through Japan?
🚆 What should I do if my visa application is denied?
🗾 Can I switch from a Temporary Visitor Visa to another visa type while in Japan?
What type of visa do I need?
The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your visit. Common types include:
- Temporary Visitor Visa: For tourism, business, visiting friends/family (short stays up to 90 days).
- Student Visa: For studying at a Japanese educational institution.
- Work Visa: For employment at a Japanese company.
- Working Holiday Visa: It allows young people from certain countries to visit Japan and work there for up to a year.
- Highly Skilled Professional Visa: Point-based system visa for highly-skilled professionals who want to work in Japan.
- Business Manager Visa: For those willing to set up a Japanese company.
- Digital Nomad Visa: For working remotely while residing in Japan.
- Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa: For spouses and children of Japanese citizens.
- Dependent Visa: For family members of those holding long-term visas.
- Long-Term Resident Visa: For those with specific residency ties to Japan.
- Cultural Activities Visa: For unpaid cultural activities or studies.
How to get a Temporary Visitor or Tourist Visa in Japan
The tourist visa is the easiest one to get to enter Japan, however his length is limited but you can actually have a Tourist Visa for a full year and we will explain how.
Length of Tourist Visa in Japan
It can be 15, 30 or 90 days depending on the country of citizenship with a limit of two Tourist Visas per year.
The period of stay granted at the time of the landing permission is 14 days for Brunei, 15 days for Indonesia and Thailand, 30 days for United Arab Emirates and 90 days for 65 other countries/regions listed here
Few people know it but the Tourist Visa for Japan can also be valid for 6 months to a full year under certain conditions. You should have proof of savings equivalent to more than 30 million Japanese yen owned by you or your spouse (equivalent of 195 000 EUR or 200 000 USD).
Requirements for Tourist Visa in Japan
For many nationalities you will just need a valid passport and complete a visa application form mentioning the place where you are going to stay and your criminal record.
For some other nationalities (China - Russia - CIS countries- Georgia, Philippines, Vietnam) you will need to complete an application form beforehand including a visa fee.For more details per country, please refer to this page from Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan
How to get a Digital Nomad Visa in Japan
Japan is launching a new Digital Nomad Visa for foreign remote workers earning a certain amount in March 2024. The digital nomad visa will also allow you to bring your family under the same visa (legally married spouse and children).
Length of Digital Nomad Visa in Japan
You can stay up to 6 months with a Digital Nomad visa , so if you combine it with a tourist visa before and after the digital nomad visa, you could stay up to 1 year in Japan.
Requirements for Digital Nomad Visa in Japan
There are 3 main requirements to obtain the digital nomad visa:
1. Work remotely as an employee, freelancer, or business owner for a company registered outside of Japan.
2. Have a minimum annual income of at least 10 million Japanese Yen, which is in February 2024 $66500 or €62000 .
3. Hold a passport from a country that has visa-free entry and double taxation agreements with Japan like countries of the European Union, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand.
Documents you need for Digital Nomad Visa in Japan
Except the usual valid passport and a passport-sized photo the 2 main documents you will need specifically for the Digital Nomad Visa are:
1. Proof of remote work like an employment contract, employer letter, or client invoices
2. Income statements demonstrating earnings over 10 million Japanese Yen from non-Japan entities, such as bank records or tax returns
How to get a Student Visa in Japan
Some of the requirements for Student visa are the same as Tourist visa like a valid passport and a special Visa application form that you can get from the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country or through their online portal.
Documents you need for Student Visa in Japan
The 2 main documents you will need are:
1. Admission letter from a Japanese educational institution : You must have been accepted by a recognized educational institution in Japan. They can be a university, a language school or vocational school.
2. Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) : The educational institution in Japan will apply for a Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf through the Immigration Bureau of Japan. The CoE serves as proof that you meet the requirements for a student visa. Once the CoE is issued, it will be sent to you.
Depending on the nationality of the applicant, other documents may be necessary in addition to the above. For details please refer to the website of a Japanese embassy or consulate in your area on this page from Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan
Elements to compete the Students Visa Application for Japan
To complete your Student visa application
* you will have to provide evidence of your financial ability to support yourself during your studies in Japan . This can include bank statements, scholarship award letters, or other financial documents that demonstrate your ability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and any other related costs.
* You will have to submit your academic transcripts and certificates from your previous educational institutions in order to validate your educational background and qualifications.
* You will have to write a statement explaining your reasons for studying in Japan , your educational goals, and how the study program aligns with your future plans.
* You will have to provide proof of your accommodation arrangements in Japan , such as a housing contract or a letter of acceptance from a dormitory.
* Finally you will need to obtain a health certificate or medical examination report from a recognized medical institution . The certificate should confirm that you are in good health and free from contagious diseases.
How long is the process to apply for a student visa in Japan?
School terms start 4 times per year: January, April, July, October.
To obtain a student visa, you will have to be aware that process can take up to 3 months from the time you send your application to the start of your first term. How long depends on when you want to enroll and the duration of your study in Japan.
How to get a Work Visa in Japan
If you want to stay in Japan with a work visa there are few steps you need to follow:
* Secure a Job Offer : Before applying for a work visa, you need a job offer from a Japanese employer. The employer will usually provide you with a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which is a crucial document for your visa application.
* Determine Your Visa Category : Japan offers several types of work visas, each corresponding to different job categories. Common categories include Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Instructor, Intra-company Transferee, and more. You must determine which category applies to your job.
* Meet Qualification Requirements : You must meet the specific qualification requirements for the visa category you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a teaching position, you might need a bachelor's degree and relevant teaching experience.
* Once you receive your COE, you must prepare the other required Documents including your passport, visa application form, passport-sized photos, and other supporting documents related to your job and qualifications . Make sure all documents are complete and in the required format.
* Apply for a Visa and pay the Visa Fees: You can apply for a work visa at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country or in a country where you have legal residency. Visa application procedures and requirements may vary by location, so check with the specific embassy or consulate for details. The Japanese embassy or consulate will usually keep your passport for few days to review your application so do not plan any travel abroad during that time. There are typically fees associated with visa applications.
* Attend an Interview or Submit Biometrics: Depending on your nationality and the specific requirements, you may need to attend an interview or provide biometric data during the application process.
* It usually takes several weeks up to 2 months for your visa application to be approved. You will receive a visa sticker in your passport. You can then travel to Japan to start your job.
* Register at the Local Municipal Office: After arriving in Japan, you'll need to register your residence at the local municipal office (city or ward office) within 14 days of your arrival.
How to get a Business Manager Visa in Japan
You will need to follow 2 main steps to obtain Manager Visa, create your Japanese company first and then apply for Business Manager Visa , which must fulfill few requirements:
* Your company's capital must be at least 5,000,000 Yen. A proof of the amount of 5 million Yen in a Japanese bank account will be enough for Immigration office.
* Company must have an office space in Japan . Your accommodation can be considered as an office space but you will need to ask your landlord or an estate agency if they allow it and your flat will need to be inspected to see if it fills some requirements to be an office space. If you rent an office space, you can find something for 15/20 000 yen per month in Tokyo for instance.
* A Business plan that must be approved by the relevant authorities. It must be in Japanese but the length can be short like 2 pages.
Important: You used to have to hire at least one full time employee who is either a Japanese national, a Permanent Resident, a Spouse or Child of a Japanese National or a Permanent Resident but it is not mandatory anymore.
The Business Manager Visa will be delivered for 1 year, then depending on the activity and financial statements of the Japanese company, you can renew it for 1 to several years. The length depends on Immigration Bureau and they won’t have to give you an explanation on why they renew it for 1 or 3 years for instance.
How to get a Cultural Activities Visa in Japan
This type of visa is for individuals who wish to engage in cultural or artistic activities that provide no income, such as unpaid internships, studies in traditional Japanese culture, or participation in artistic activities. If you want to stay in Japan with a Cultural Activities Visa there are few steps you need to follow:
Requirements for Cultural Activities in Japan
To qualify for a Cultural Activities visa, you must meet one of the following criteria:
• You plan to engage in unpaid activities related to Japanese culture or art.
• You intend to learn or practice traditional Japanese cultural arts, such as tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), or martial arts.
Documents you need for Cultural Activities Visa in Japan
You will need to gather the following documents:
• Passport: Valid and with enough pages for the visa.
• Visa Application Form: Completed and signed.
• Photo: One recent passport-sized photo.
• Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This is not mandatory but highly recommended as it simplifies the process. This certificate is issued by the Japanese Immigration Bureau.
• Proof of Cultural Activity: Documents detailing your planned activities, such as:
• A detailed letter of invitation or acceptance from the host organization or school.
• An outline of your cultural activities or study plan.
• Evidence of Financial Stability: Bank statements or a financial support letter ensuring you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
• Resume/CV: Detailing your background and experience relevant to your planned cultural activity.
• Other Supporting Documents: Any additional documents that can support your purpose of stay, such as a letter of recommendation or proof of previous cultural activities.
How to obtain the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)for Cultural Activities Visa in Japan?
While the COE is not mandatory, it is highly recommended.
To obtain a COE, you must:
• Have a sponsor in Japan, such as the school or organization inviting you.
• Submit the COE application to the local immigration office in Japan, either by your sponsor or through an immigration lawyer.
The documents required for the COE include:
• Application form for the COE.
• A letter of reason for the application.
• Documents proving the cultural activity (e.g., acceptance letter from the host organization).
• Proof of financial stability (bank statements, etc.).
Once you have your COE (if applicable), submit your visa application to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. If you do not have a COE, submit all the necessary documents directly.
Some embassies or consulates may require an interview. Be prepared to discuss your planned activities and your reasons for wanting to engage in cultural activities in Japan.
Processing times can vary, but typically it takes a few weeks. The embassy or consulate will notify you once your visa is ready for collection.
Tips to obtain the Visa for Cultural Activities Visa in Japan?
• Start Early. The process can be lengthy, especially if obtaining a COE, so start as early as possible.
• Consult the Embassy. Contact the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements and guidance.
• Maintain Records. Keep copies of all documents submitted for your records.
What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and do I need one?
A Certificate of Eligibility -COE- is a document issued by the Japanese Immigration Bureau that verifies you meet the conditions for landing in Japan. It is required for most long-term visas (e.g., student, work, spouse visas). Your sponsor in Japan typically applies for it on your behalf.
How long does it take to get a Japanese visa?
Processing times vary by visa type and your country of residence. Generally:
- Temporary Visitor Visa: 5-10 business days.
- Student, Work, Spouse Visas: 1-3 months (including COE processing).
How much does a Japanese visa cost?
Visa fees vary by country and visa type. Typical costs are:
- Temporary Visitor Visa: Around 30-50 USD or EUR
- Student, Work Visas: Around 30-60 USD or EUR
Fees are often waived for nationals of certain countries.
Can I work in Japan on a Temporary Visitor Visa?
No, you cannot work on a Temporary Visitor Visa. You need an appropriate work visa to engage in employment activities.
Can I extend my visa once I’m in Japan?
Yes. To extend a visa, you must apply at a regional Immigration Bureau before your current visa expires. Extensions depend on the type of visa and your reasons for staying longer, and approval is not guaranteed.
Can I work in Japan on a Temporary Visitor Visa?
No, you cannot work on a Temporary Visitor Visa. You need an appropriate work visa to engage in employment activities.
How long can I stay in Japan with a Tourist Visa?
Citizens from many countries, including the U.S. and EU nations, can stay for up to 90 days without a visa (under visa waiver agreements). For other countries, a tourist visa typically lasts between 15 to 90 days. You can use a mamixum of 2 Tourist Visa per year.
Can I work in Japan on a Temporary Visitor Visa?
No, you cannot work on a Temporary Visitor Visa. You need an appropriate work visa to engage in employment activities.
Do I need a visa if I’m just transiting through Japan?
If you are staying within the airport’s transit area and not entering Japan, you typically do not need a visa. However, if you need to leave the transit area or stay overnight, you may require a visa.
What should I do if my visa application is denied?
If your visa application is denied, you can:
- Ask for the reason: The embassy or consulate may provide a general reason for the denial.
- Reapply: Address the issues that led to the denial before reapplying.
- Seek legal advice: If unsure about the reasons or next step, just contact us at help@visa-in-japan.com
Can I switch from a Temporary Visitor Visa to another visa type while in Japan?
Generally, it’s challenging to change from a Temporary Visitor Visa to another visa type while in Japan. It’s usually required to leave Japan and apply for the new visa from your home country.
These questions cover many common concerns for those planning to visit or stay in Japan for various purposes. Always check the specific requirements and procedures from the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and detailed information.