Introduction

To work, study, or live with family in Japan, it is essential to obtain the appropriate residency visa. However, with various types of visas available, understanding which one applies to your situation and aligns with your future goals can be complex for foreigners. This article provides a detailed explanation of the main types of residency visas in Japan and their requirements, offering necessary information for foreigners planning to stay in Japan.

What Are Japanese Residency Visas?

In Japan, residency visas are granted by the Ministry of Justice based on the purpose or activities of foreign residents. Each visa has specific activity scopes and durations, and engaging in activities beyond the permitted scope is legally prohibited.

Residency visas are broadly categorized into three types:

• Employment-based Visas
• Non-employment-based Visas
• Status-based Visas

Let’s explore each category in detail.

1. Employment-based Visas

These visas allow foreigners to work in Japan. Specific types include:

1-1. Technology, Humanities, International Business

This visa is for foreigners working in Japanese companies using specialized knowledge or skills, such as engineers, translators, or marketing professionals. Typically, a university degree or equivalent education is required.

Requirements:

• University graduation or three years of work experience
• Employment by a Japanese company

1-2. Highly Skilled Professional

The Highly Skilled Professional visa is for foreigners with advanced expertise contributing to Japan’s economic development. It uses a point system based on factors like education, income, and work experience, requiring at least 70 points.

Requirements:

• Possession of advanced specialized knowledge or skills contributing to Japan’s development
• High income and educational standards

1-3. Business Management

This visa is for foreigners who manage or establish businesses in Japan. The establishment of a business, business plan specifics, and capital are scrutinized.

Requirements:

• Presence of a business establishment in Japan
• Capital of at least 5 million yen

1-4. Specified Skilled Worker

The Specified Skilled Worker visa is a new system for industries facing labor shortages, such as nursing care, construction, and manufacturing. It targets those who have completed skill training or passed skill tests.

Requirements:

• Passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test N4 or higher
• Passing a skill test in a specific field

2. Non-employment-based Visas

These visas are for non-work-related stays, primarily for studying or living with family.

2-1. Student

This visa is for attending Japanese universities, vocational schools, or language schools. Admission permission from the educational institution is required.

Requirements:

• Admission permission from a Japanese educational institution
• Proof of sufficient funds for living expenses

2-2. Cultural Activities

This visa is for foreigners engaging in cultural or academic activities in Japan, such as studying tea ceremonies or calligraphy.

Requirements:

• Engaging in cultural or academic activities
• Submission of an activity plan

2-3. Short-term Stay

This visa is for tourism, visiting relatives, or short-term business purposes. Typically, stays are limited to 90 days, and employment is not allowed.

Requirements:

• Purpose of non-employment activities like tourism or short-term business
• Proof of return tickets and sufficient funds for the stay

3. Status-based Visas

These visas are for long-term stays based on family relationships with Japanese citizens or permanent residents.

3-1. Spouse of Japanese National

This visa is for foreigners married to Japanese citizens, allowing unrestricted employment in Japan.

Requirements:

• Legally valid marriage to a Japanese citizen
• Intention to live as a spouse

3-2. Spouse of Permanent Resident

This visa is for spouses or children of permanent residents or special permanent residents, allowing unlimited stay in Japan.

Requirements:

• Marriage or family relationship with a permanent resident

3-3. Long-term Resident

This visa is granted to foreigners who have lived in Japan for a long time or meet specific conditions, offering high freedom to work without needing a specific occupation.

Requirements:

• Specific circumstances (e.g., being a family member of a Japanese citizen, refugee applicant)

Changing or Renewing Residency Visas

Once a residency visa is obtained, it must be updated if the activity content changes or before the stay period ends. When applying for a change, ensure the new activity aligns with the new visa requirements. Prepare all necessary documents and submit them to the local immigration office.

Conclusion

Obtaining the right residency visa is crucial for foreigners living in Japan. As explained, Japan offers employment-based, non-employment-based, and status-based visas, each with specific requirements. Applying for or renewing a visa requires careful preparation, as errors or omissions can lead to rejection. Consulting with administrative scriveners or experts can facilitate smooth procedures.

To succeed in living in Japan, choose the appropriate visa and follow the correct procedures.