A work visa is essential for those planning to reside and work in Japan. This section covers the application process, required documents, key points about work visas, and more.
- For Customers Who
- What is a Work Visa
- “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
- Application for a Work Visa
- Application Process
- Required Documents for the “Certification” Procedure of a Work Visa
- Required Documents for the “Extension” Procedure of the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
- Required Documents for the “Change” Procedure of the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
- Other Types of Work Visas
- Average Processing Period
- Frequently Asked Questions about Work Visas
- Support and Fees for the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
- For Employers and HR Professionals
- Important Points for Those Who Have Obtained a Work Visa, Employers, etc.
For Customers Who
If you fall into any of the following categories, please refer to this explanation:
☑ Graduated from a vocational school and want to obtain a work visa to work in Japan, but finding it challenging?
☑ Applied for a change or certification of a work visa independently but faced rejection?
☑ Are planning to change jobs but unsure about the visa process?
☑ Are looking to hire a foreign worker and need assistance with visa procedures as there are no experienced personnel internally?
☑☑ Are frequently on overseas business trips and now want to renew the work visa.
What is a Work Visa
To engage in activities that involve working and earning compensation within Japan, it is necessary to obtain a visa or residence status that permits work. Commonly referred to as a “work visa,” this type of residence status or visa is intended for those with the purpose of working in Japan. It’s important to note that there isn”t a specific visa called a “work visa” for working in Japan; rather, there are various residence statuses tailored to the nature of the job (Technology/Humanities/International Affairs, Skill, Investor/Business Manager, Intra-company Transferee, Entertainer, Professor, Art, Religion, News coverage, Legal/accounting services, Medical service, Researcher, and Education).
Work Qualifications
The term “work visa” and “work qualification” may sound similar, but they refer to entirely different things. The formal name for “work qualification” is the “Employment qualification certificate,” which, as the name suggests, is a type of certificate. This document, issued by the Minister of Justice, certifies the types of occupations or activities a foreign national is permitted to engage in while living in Japan. Foreign workers can use this certificate to determine whether their job or activity aligns with the designated activities outlined in the Immigration Control Act. Employers hiring foreign workers can also verify whether the activities fall within the scope recognized by the government, providing assurance in the employment process.
※Please note that obtaining the “Employment qualification certificate” is not obligatory.
Types and Period of Stay of Work Visas
Not all occupations or activities are eligible for a work visa, and approval is specific to certain job categories or activities. It’s crucial to confirm whether your intended duties align with one of the designated categories to ensure that a work visa is applicable. The examples of occupations mentioned are just a few instances, and for clarification on eligibility, inquiries can be made to our company, the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, the Foreign Residents Information Center, or the immigration inspection department within the jurisdiction.
Work visas, excluding ” Diplomacy,” “Official,” “Highly Skilled Professional,” “Business Manager” “Entertainer” “Specified Skilled Worker,” and “Technical Intern Training,” are typically granted for a duration of either 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, or 3 months.”
| Status of residence | Dperiod of stay | Examples of Occupations/Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Diplomacy | Duration of diplomatic activities | Ambassadors, ministers, consuls general, members of delegations, etc. of foreign governments and their families. |
| Official | 5th year, 3rd year, 1st year, March, 30th or 15th | Employees of embassies and consulates of foreign governments, persons dispatched by international organizations, etc. on official business, and their families. |
| Professor | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months | University professors, etc. |
| Art | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months | Composers, painters, writers, etc. |
| Religion | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months | Missionaries dispatched from foreign religious organizations |
| News coverage | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months | Reporters and photographers for foreign news organizations |
| Highly skilled professional | Highly skilled professional No.1: 5 years Highly skilled professional No.2: Indefinite period |
Highly skilled human resources based on point system (Managers, Engineers, Researchers, Financial Professionals, etc) |
| Business Manager | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 6 months, 4 months, 3 months | Managers/managers of companies, etc. |
| Legal/accounting services | 5 years, 3rd years, 1 year, 3 months | Lawyer, certified public accountant, etc. |
| Medical Services | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 months | Doctors, dentists, nurses |
| Researcher | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 months | Researchers from government-related organizations and private companies |
| Education | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 months | Language teachers at junior high schools, high schools, etc. |
| Technology/Humanities/International Affairs | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 months | Mechanical engineers, interpreters, designers, language teachers at private companies, marketing workers, etc. |
| Intra-Company Transferee | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 months | Transferees from foreign offices |
| Nursing care | 5 years, 3 years, 1st year, 3 months | Care worker |
| Entertainment | 3 years, 1 year, 6 months, 3 months | Actors, singers, dancers, professional athletes, etc. |
| Skill | 5 years, 3 years, 1st year, 3 months | Foreign cuisine cooks, sports instructors, aircraft pilots, craftsmen who process precious metals, etc. |
| Specified Skilled Worker | No.1: Period designated individually by the Minister of Justice (within a range not exceeding one year) No.2: 3 years, 1 year or 6 months |
Raw Material Industry, Industrial Machinery Manufacturing,Electrical and Electronic Information-related Industry,Construction, Shipbuilding and Maritime Industry, Automotive Maintenance, Agriculture,Fisheries, Food and Beverage Manufacturing, Restaurant Industry |
| Technical Intern Training | Period designated individually by the Minister of Justice No.1: within a range not exceeding one year No.2: within a range not exceeding two years No.3: within a range not exceeding two years |
Technical intern trainee |
In principle, work visas are not granted for simple labor such as cashier duties in supermarkets or convenience stores, factory line work not recognized as a specified skill industry, and customer service or sales tasks at restaurants or retail stores that are not acknowledged under specified industries.
“Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
We will now explain the visa that can be considered a representative type of work visa, the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa. In simple terms, this visa is acquired when foreign nationals engage in white-collar work at Japanese companies.
[What is White Collar?]
Broadly, it refers to jobs in administrative fields.
Example: Workers engaged in non-production office work such as planning and management tasks within a company.
The nature of work for technology, humanities, and international business differs in each of these three categories.
-
Engineer: Involves jobs that require the application of technical skills or knowledge in fields such as natural sciences or engineering.
(Example: Technicians like mechanical or electrical engineers, programmers, etc.)
-
Humanities: Involves jobs that require the application of knowledge in fields like law, economics, or sociology gained from humanities studies.
(Example: Roles in sales, accounting, marketing, etc.)
-
International service: Involves jobs that require language proficiency and international experience, relying on thinking and sensitivity based on the unique culture of foreign nationals.
(Example: Interpreters, translators, language teachers, etc.)
Requirements and Examination Points for Obtaining a Work Visa
While the specific requirements for work-related residence statuses vary, we will focus on explaining the most common work qualification, the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa here.
The “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa requires a certain level of specialized knowledge, either “academic qualifications backed by a certain level of expertise” for technology and humanities or “specialized abilities based on thinking or sensitivity rooted in the culture of a foreign country at a certain level or above” for international business.
The evaluation of the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa primarily revolves around the following points:”
① Having educational background or practical experience relevant to the job duties
Generally, a work visa is granted to foreign nationals with advanced knowledge or skills. To obtain it, the individual must prove that they possess the appropriate knowledge and skills for the actual duties they will perform. The specific criteria for suitable knowledge and skills are as follows:
・Graduation from a university, either domestic or foreign, or graduation from a specialized school in Japan (demonstrating suitable knowledge).
・Three or more years of practical experience related to the intended job, or ten or more years of practical experience (demonstrating suitable skills).
For more detailed information, please refer to our page here(currently in preparation).”
Occupations requiring three or more years of practical experience include translation, interpretation, language instruction, public relations, advertising, overseas business transactions, design, and product development, among others that necessitate understanding of foreign cultures” thinking and sensitivity. For other occupations, a minimum of ten years of practical experience is necessary.
University graduates, regardless of their major, can engage in tasks related to translation, interpretation, or language instruction in their native language and Japanese. In this case, practical experience is not required.
(Example)
A Chinese graduate working in translation and interpretation between English and Japanese: Not allowed
A Chinese graduate working in translation and interpretation between Chinese and Japanese: OK
The work visa cannot be obtained if there is no relevance between the academic background and the job duties.
It’s important to confirm whether “the foreigner”s school major and job duties are related or consistent” by checking the major details in the graduation certificate or academic record.
For instance, if you studied accounting at university, you can work in accounting-related roles; if you studied marketing, you can work in public relations roles; if you studied architecture, you can work as a construction engineer. For more details, refer to here(currently in preparation).
If you have only a high school diploma or no relevant educational background, you must provide proof of practical experience.
This proof of practical experience needs to be obtained from the foreigner”s previous employers. If you cannot prove your practical experience, unfortunately, you won”t be able to obtain a work visa.”
②The job must require advanced knowledge and skills.
To obtain the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa”, the job must require advanced knowledge and skills. Additionally, the job duties must align with those specified by the Immigration Control Act, meaning that jobs involving simple tasks like cleaning or dishwashing are not eligible for a work visa.
Examples of job categories that qualify for the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa” include:
: Technical positions such as IT engineers, technicians, and designers.
: Roles in sales, legal affairs, accounting, human resources, general affairs, etc.
: Positions involving interpretation, translation, language instruction, etc.”
When engaging in activities such as initial training periods that do not fall under the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa” residence status, for example, tasks like customer service in restaurants, sales duties in retail stores, or line work in factories, it may be recognized within the scope of the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa” residence status if such activities are part of practical training conducted similarly for Japanese college-educated employees and do not constitute the majority of the activities during the stay. This recognition can be achieved by submitting a training plan or related documentation.
③Valid Contract with a Foreigner and Affiliated Institution (Company, etc.)
The contract can take various forms, including employment, delegation, commission, or appointment.However, it must be a continuous service provision contract with a specific institution (company, etc.).
Obtaining a work visa is possible for both regular employees and contract/temporary employees.
However, the terms of such contracts must comply with various laws, especially labor standards laws in the case of employment contracts. Typically, employment contracts with a condition stating, “Subject to obtaining and maintaining the appropriate residence status,” are concluded.
④Salary Amount
It is necessary to receive a salary or compensation equal to or higher than that of Japanese nationals.
The salary or compensation of other employees in similar positions, as well as other foreign workers in the same company, should also be considered. If the salary is significantly lower compared to other employees in similar roles or other foreign workers, the work visa application may be rejected. If there are no employees in the company with similar roles, it is advisable to refer to the general wage level in the industry.
The salary amount should be sufficient for maintaining a livelihood. While the specific amount varies by occupation and position, a general guideline is that a minimum monthly amount of around 200,000 yen or more is necessary. Setting a salary below the minimum wage in each prefecture is illegal, and such visa applications will not be approved.
⑤Stability and Continuity of the Company
If the financial situation of the company is not good, stability as a business entity may not be recognized, and it may be judged that the continuous payment of salaries cannot be expected.
Typically, financial documents such as balance sheets (sales scale, profit and loss situation) and statutory documents (income tax withholding amounts for employees” salary income) are examined. However, even in the case of companies with a deficit, or newly established companies, providing a business plan indicating the potential transition to profitability can enhance the possibility of approval.
The categories are divided based on the size of the employing company, where listed companies or large unlisted companies have simplified document requirements.
＜Category 1＞
Companies listed on Japanese securities exchanges, etc.
＜Category 2＞
(1) Entities or individuals for whom the total income tax withholding amount in the statutory statement total for the previous year”s income tax withholding statements, especially in the income tax withholding statement total for salary income, is 10 million yen or more.
＜Category 3＞
Entities or individuals for whom the statutory statement total for the previous year”s salary income withholding statement or similar documents have been submitted (excluding Category 2).
＜Category 4＞
Entities or individuals not falling into any of the above categories.
⑥Sufficient Work Volume
To obtain a “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa”, the job must require a certain level of knowledge, skills, and foreign-specific sensitivity. In other words, jobs considered simple labor are not eligible. As part of the assessment, it is examined whether there is a sufficient volume of work for these “highly skilled” duties. For example, when hiring a foreign employee for a position such as a “Systems Engineer,” there must be enough work allocated for engineering tasks. If, for instance, only 20% of the job involves engineering tasks and 80% involves unloading, it may be deemed simple labor, and the residence status may not be granted.”
Sole Proprietorship Companies (commonly referred to as one-person companies where the owner, who is also the representative, operates the business alone without hiring employees) often use a single room in an apartment/home office/virtual office as their place of business.
When considering employing a foreign worker for the first time, it is essential to carefully consider the nature of the business, the company”s activities, and the number of employees, and provide an appropriate working location accordingly.
⑦No Misconduct or Criminal Record
It is necessary for the foreign individual applying for a work visa to have a good conduct and no criminal record. This record includes compliance with immigration laws and other regulations during the stay in Japan, as well as any criminal history outside Japan (including countries other than their home country).
If a serious crime has been committed in their home country or elsewhere, if they have committed a crime in Japan, or if there are confirmed instances of false applications during previous entries to Japan, overstaying, overwork, or other violations of qualifications, obtaining a work visa may become difficult.
Application for a Work Visa
We will provide a clear explanation of the process, required documents, and standard processing period when applying for a work visa. While the requirements for work-related residence statuses vary, we will focus on explaining the most common work qualification, the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa.
Application Process
We will guide you through the application process for a work visa, explaining the steps, necessary documents, and the standard processing period. While requirements vary depending on the type of work-related residence status, we will primarily focus on explaining the most common work qualification, the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa.
For more information on the Immigration Bureau (Immigration Bureau) and the Immigration Agency (Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Agency), please click here for a detailed explanation.
Required Documents for the “Certification” Procedure of a Work Visa
Next, we will guide you through the essential documents for the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa certification process (Application for Certificate of Eligibility). The listed documents below are fundamental, and depending on the applicant”s circumstances, additional attachments may be required.
In many cases, specialized knowledge and experience are required to gather the necessary documents tailored to the applicant’s situation. Rather than spending a lot of effort and time and receiving undesired results, it is safer to consult a specialist (please feel free to contact our office and utilize our Free consultation).
| Category 1（※1） |
Category 2 |
Category 3 |
Category 4 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ① Application for Certificate of Eligibility | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ② Photo 1 leaf (4cm x 3cm) | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ③ 1 reply envelope (a standard size envelope with the address clearly written and the required amount of postage stamps (for registered mail) affixed) | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ④ Documents proving that you fall under any of the categories,※1 | ○ | ○ | ○ | |
| ⑤ One document certifying that you were granted the title of Specialist or Advanced Specialist※2 | △ （graduated from a vocational school only） |
△ （graduated from a vocational school only） |
△ （graduated from a vocational school only） |
△ （graduated from a vocational school only） |
| ⑥ 1 document clarifying the details of the applicant”s employment relationship based on a dispach contract ※3 | △ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
| ⑦ Materials that clarify the business details※4 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑧ Documents certifying the applicant”s educational background, work history, and other backgrounds※5 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑨ 1 copy of registration certificate※6 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑩ Materials that clarify the business details※7 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑪ A copy of the financial statements for the most recent year (In the case of a new business, one business plan) ※8 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑫ Documentation Explaining the Inability to Submit the Statutory Income Statement※9 | ○ |
※1: A copy of the quarterly report or a document certifying that it is listed on a Japanese stock exchange (copy)
If there are no documents available for submission, it falls under Category 4.
※2: Documents for those who graduated from a vocational school and were granted the title of Specialist or Advanced Specialist
※3: Documents for individuals working working based on a dispatch contract
1 document clarifying the details of the applicant”s activities at the place of dispatch (notification of working conditions (employment contract), etc.)
※4: One document specifying the working conditions issued to the worker based on Article 15, Paragraph 1 of the Labor Standards Act and Article 5 of the Enforcement Regulations of the same Act.
※5: One of the following documents proving educational background or work history, etc.
(A) A graduation certificate from a university, etc., or a document certifying that you have received an equivalent or higher level of education.
(B) A document certifying the period of engagement in the related work, such as a certificate of employment (a university, technical college, high school, or vocational school that indicates the period in which you majored in the subject related to the technology or knowledge in the specialized course) (Including certificate from ) 1 copy
(C)For IT engineers, one copy of a passing certificate or qualification certificate for an examination or qualification related to “information processing technology” specified by the Minister of Justice in a special notification.
(D)If you are engaged in work that requires thinking or sensitivity based on a foreign culture (excluding cases where university graduates are engaged in translation/interpretation or language instruction), you must have worked in the related work for at least 3 years. 1 document proving your work experience
※6: 1 copy of registration certificate of the company at the place of employment.
.※7: Historical background, officers, organization, business content (including transaction records) of the employer or equivalent documents provided by the employer (e.g., website, brochures).
※8: A copy of the financial statements for the most recent fiscal year.
For new businesses (established within approximately 3 years), a business plan is required.
※9: The official name of the statutory statement is the “Aggregate Statement of Statutory Statements, such as Withholding Statements for Income from Employment.” Companies legally employing workers or engaging in transactions that require the issuance of payment statements must create them without fail. If unable to submit, provide either one belw
(A) In the case of an institution exempted from withholding tax, 1 copy of exemption certificate for foreign corporation”s withholding tax or other documents that clarify that withholding tax is not required
(B) In all other cases, submit either ① or ②
① Copy of the “Notification of Opening a Payroll Office, etc.
②Copy of the “Income Tax Withholding Statement for the Last Three Months (with date stamps)” / “Document proving eligibility for special tax payment deadline
You can also download materials such as the “Certificate of Eligibility Application Form” (PDF・Excel) from the Immigration Services Agency”s website, so please check it for confirmation.
Categories of Companies
The application process for a work visa varies depending on the category of the employing company or entity. Please refer to the classification criteria outlined here for more details.
＜Category 1＞
Companies listed on the stock exchange in Japan
There are other companies that may qualify, but these are extremely rare, so they are omitted.
＜Category 2＞
(1) Organizations or individuals for whom the total amount of withholding tax for salary income on the consolidated statement of statutory documents, including the withholding tax statement for salary income for the previous year, is 10 million yen or more.
＜Category 3＞
Organizations or individuals for whom the consolidated statement of statutory documents for the previous year, including the withholding tax statement for employees” salary income, has been submitted (excluding Category 2).
＜Category 4＞
Organizations or individuals that do not fall into any of the categories mentioned above.
For more details, please refer to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan”s page (Residence Status “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” | Immigration Services Agency of Japan).
Required Documents for the “Extension” Procedure of the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
Here is a guide to the fundamental required documents for the renewal (application for extension of stay) of the “Technical and Humanities Activities” visa. The listed documents are basic, and depending on the applicant”s situation, additional attachments may be necessary.
In many cases, specialized knowledge and experience are required to gather the necessary documents tailored to the applicant’s situation. Rather than spending a lot of effort and time and receiving undesired results, it is safer to consult a specialist (please feel free to contact our office and utilize our Free consultation).
| Category 1 |
Category 2 |
Category 3 |
Category 4 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 【Extension】① Application for Extension of Period of Stay | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ② Photo 1 leaf (4cm x 3cm) | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ③ 1 reply envelope (a standard size envelope with the address clearly written and the required amount of postage stamps (for registered mail) affixed) | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ④ Documents proving that you fall under any of the categories,※1 | ○ | ○ | ○ | |
| ⑤ 1 document clarifying the details of the applicant”s employment relationship based on a dispach contract ※2 | △ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
| ⑥ Resident Taxation Certificate (Taxable or Non-taxable) and Tax Payment Certificate 1 each | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ⑦ Materials that clarify the business details※3 | △ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
△ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
||
| ⑧ 1 copy of registration certificate※4 | △ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
△ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
||
| ⑨ Materials that clarify the business details※5 | △ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
△ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
||
| ⑩ A copy of the financial statements for the most recent year ※6 (In the case of a new business, one business plan) |
△ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
△ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
||
| ⑪ Documentation Explaining the Inability to Submit the Statutory Income Statement ※7 | △ （Initial extension application after changing jobs only） |
※1: A copy of the quarterly report or a document certifying that it is listed on a Japanese stock exchange (copy)
If there are no documents available for submission, it falls under Category 4.
※2: Documents for individuals working based on a dispatch contract
1 document clarifying the details of the applicant”s activities at the place of dispatch (notification of working conditions (employment contract), etc.)
※3: One document specifying the working conditions issued to the worker based on Article 15, Paragraph 1 of the Labor Standards Act and Article 5 of the Enforcement Regulations of the same Act.
※4: 1 copy of registration certificate of the company at the place of employment.
※5:History, officers, organization, business details of the workplace (including transaction records). Alternatively, any other documents prepared by the workplace similar to the aforementioned (e.g., website, brochures, etc.).
※6: A copy of the financial statements for the most recent fiscal year.
For new businesses (established within approximately 3 years), a business plan is required.
※7: The official name of the statutory statement is the “Aggregate Statement of Statutory Statements, such as Withholding Statements for Income from Employment.” Companies legally employing workers or engaging in transactions that require the issuance of payment statements must create them without fail. If unable to submit, provide either one belw
(A) In the case of an institution exempted from withholding tax, 1 copy of exemption certificate for foreign corporation”s withholding tax or other documents that clarify that withholding tax is not required
(B) In all other cases, submit either ① or ②
① Copy of the “Notification of Opening a Payroll Office, etc.
②Copy of the “Income Tax Withholding Statement for the Last Three Months (with date stamps)” / “Document proving eligibility for special tax payment deadline
Required Documents for the “Change” Procedure of the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
Here is a guide to the fundamental required documents for the change (application for extension of stay) of the “Technical and Humanities Activities” visa. The listed documents are basic, and depending on the applicant”s situation, additional attachments may be necessary.
In many cases, specialized knowledge and experience are required to gather the necessary documents tailored to the applicant’s situation. Rather than spending a lot of effort and time and receiving undesired results, it is safer to consult a specialist (please feel free to contact our office and utilize our Free consultation).
| Category 1 |
Category 2 |
Category 3 |
Category 4 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 【Change】① Application for Change of Status of Residence | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ② Photo 1 leaf (4cm x 3cm) | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ③ Passport and residence card (present) | ○ | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| ④ Documents proving that you fall under any of the categories ※1 | ○ | ○ | ○ | |
| ⑤ One document certifying that you were granted the title of Specialist or Advanced Specialist※2 | △ （graduated from a vocational school only） |
△ （graduated from a vocational school only） |
△ （graduated from a vocational school only） |
△ （graduated from a vocational school only） |
| ⑥ 1 document clarifying the details of the applicant”s employment relationship based on a dispach contract※3 | △ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
△ （dispatch contract only） |
| ⑦ Materials that clarify the business details※4 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑧ Documents certifying the applicant”s educational background, work history, and other backgrounds※5 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑨ 1 copy of registration certificate※6 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑩ Materials that clarify the business details※7 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑪ A copy of the financial statements for the most recent year(In the case of a new business, one business plan) ※8 | ○ | ○ | ||
| ⑫Documentation Explaining the Inability to Submit the Statutory Income Statement※9 | ○ |
※1: A copy of the quarterly report or a document certifying that it is listed on a Japanese stock exchange (copy)
If there are no documents available for submission, it falls under Category 4.
※2: Documents for those who graduated from a vocational school and were granted the title of Specialist or Advanced Specialist
※3: Documents for individuals working working based on a dispatch contract
1 document clarifying the details of the applicant”s activities at the place of dispatch (notification of working conditions (employment contract), etc.)
※4: One document specifying the working conditions issued to the worker based on Article 15, Paragraph 1 of the Labor Standards Act and Article 5 of the Enforcement Regulations of the same Act.
※5: One of the following documents proving educational background or work history, etc.
(A) A graduation certificate from a university, etc., or a document certifying that you have received an equivalent or higher level of education.
(B) A document certifying the period of engagement in the related work, such as a certificate of employment (a university, technical college, high school, or vocational school that indicates the period in which you majored in the subject related to the technology or knowledge in the specialized course) (Including certificate from ) 1 copy
(C)For IT engineers, one copy of a passing certificate or qualification certificate for an examination or qualification related to “information processing technology” specified by the Minister of Justice in a special notification.
(D)If you are engaged in work that requires thinking or sensitivity based on a foreign culture (excluding cases where university graduates are engaged in translation/interpretation or language instruction), you must have worked in the related work for at least 3 years. 1 document proving your work experience
※6: 1 copy of registration certificate of the company at the place of employment.
※7: Historical background, officers, organization, business content (including transaction records) of the employer or equivalent documents provided by the employer (e.g., website, brochures).
※8: A copy of the financial statements for the most recent fiscal year. For new businesses (established within approximately 3 years), a business plan is required.
※9: The official name of the statutory statement is the “Aggregate Statement of Statutory Statements, such as Withholding Statements for Income from Employment.” Companies legally employing workers or engaging in transactions that require the issuance of payment statements must create them without fail. If unable to submit, provide either one belw
(A) In the case of an institution exempted from withholding tax, 1 copy of exemption certificate for foreign corporation”s withholding tax or other documents that clarify that withholding tax is not required(B) In all other cases, submit either ① or ② ① Copy of the “Notification of Opening a Payroll Office, etc. ②Copy of the “Income Tax Withholding Statement for the Last Three Months (with date stamps)” / “Document proving eligibility for special tax payment deadline
Other Types of Work Visas
Apart from the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa, which has been extensively discussed, there are a total of 19 types of work visas in Japan. Each visa corresponds to specific activities or professions, as outlined in the examples presented in Section 2-2 Types and Period of Stay of Work Visas. As long as the application requirements for each visa category are met, foreign nationals can reside in Japan.
- Highly Skilled Professional Visa:
Detailed explanations of the necessary documents for the certification of the Highly Skilled Professional Visa can be found on the site’s page dedicated to the “Highly Skilled Professional Visa (Highly Skilled Foreign Professional Visa)“.
- Business Manager Visa:
Comprehensive explanations of the necessary documents for the certification of the Business Manager Visa can be found on the site’s page dedicated to the “Business Manager Visa“.
- Specified Skilled Worker / Technical Intern Training:
Detailed explanations of the necessary documents for the certification of the Specified Skills and Technical Intern Training visas can be found on the site’s page dedicated to “Specified Skilled Worker and Technical Intern Training“.
- Other Work Visas:
Information on the necessary documents for the certification of other work visas can be found here. (Immigration Services Agency of Japan website > Various Procedures > Search by Residence Status)
Additionally, for other required documents for work visas, please check here (Immigration Services Agency of Japan website > Various Procedures > Search by Residence Status).
Average Processing Period
The standard processing period for the Technical Intern Training Visa is approximately 30 to 60 days. However, this is a general period, and the actual processing time may vary based on factors such as the nature of the application, the applicant”s situation, and the workload at the Immigration Bureau or Immigration Agency.
Frequently Asked Questions about Work Visas
Can I get a visa for interpreting work even if I graduated from a technical college?
How much income is required for a work visa?
There is no specific requirement regarding a minimum amount in yen, but it is necessary to earn an income that is equal to or higher than that of Japanese nationals. The salary or remuneration must also be considered in comparison to employees with similar roles or positions, as well as other foreign workers in the same company. If the salary is significantly lower compared to others in similar roles or foreign workers, the work visa application may be rejected.
In cases where there are no employees with similar roles within the company, it is advisable to refer to the general wage levels in the same industry. The salary amount should be sufficient to maintain a livelihood. While specific salary figures vary based on the job, position, and region, a general guideline is that a minimum monthly salary of around 200,000 yen or more is necessary. Falling below 170,000-180,000 yen may result in a more stringent review.
Furthermore, when referring to remuneration, it includes the “opposite remuneration” specified as the consideration for providing certain services, encompassing basic salary and bonuses. It’s important to note that commuting allowances, housing allowances, family allowances, etc., are not included.
If I frequently go on overseas business trips, will it affect the applicatin of extansion of visa negatively?
If you frequently go on overseas business trips due to work commitments, it could indeed be a disadvantage during the visa renewal process. However, if, for instance, you are employed by a company involved in international trade, and extensive overseas travel is unavoidable due to company requirements, there might not be as much cause for concern.
If you can objectively substantiate that the frequent overseas trips were necessary due to circumstances beyond your control and were a result of the company’s needs by providing detailed documentation, it can significantly enhance your chances of a successful visa renewal. It’s essential to clearly demonstrate that the trips were business-related and not a personal choice.
Can I change to the Highly Skilled Professional visa if I already have a work visa?
Yes, individuals currently residing under a work visa can apply to change their status to the “Designated Activities” category as Highly Skilled Professional visa. To do so, you must undergo a prescribed examination to determine if your work meets the criteria for activities considered highly skilled, if your point calculation meets the required threshold, and if there are no issues with your previous residence status. If these conditions are satisfied, you can obtain approval for a change in residence status.
Do I need to visit the Immigration Bureau myself?
Is social insurance enrollment mandatory for foreign nationals with a work visa?
While the Immigration Control Law does not specify social insurance enrollment as a requirement for obtaining a work visa, compliance with laws is essential. If you meet the conditions for social insurance enrollment, regardless of being Japanese or foreign, you are generally obligated to join health insurance.
Therefore, if your business has a workplace with five or more employees or operates as an entity, it becomes a “Mandatory Enrollment Workplace.” In such cases, foreign workers enrollment in social insurance is compulsory and is likely to be a crucial factor in the work visa evaluation.
If a foreign worker does not enroll in social insurance or opts out of family coverage, they must join the National Health Insurance. Additionally, individuals aged 20 and above generally need to enroll in the National Pension.
However, exceptions may apply for those aged 75 and above, recipients of livelihood protection, or nationals of countries with a social security agreement with Japan, who have received a certificate of exemption from social insurance enrollment from their home country’s government.”
Support and Fees for the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” Visa
| Support content | Application document check plan (Consumption tax included) |
Application document creation plan (Consumption tax included) |
Reliable full support plan (Consumption tax included) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free consultation (first time only) | 0 yen | 0 yen | 0 yen |
| Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa “Certification” application support | 55,000 yen〜 | 55,000 yen〜 | 55,000 yen〜 |
| Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa “Extension” application support | 33,000 yen〜 | 33,000 yen〜 | 33,000 yen〜 |
| Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa “Change” application support | 55,000 yen〜 | 55,000 yen〜 | 55,000 yen〜 |
| Application for issuance of employment qualification certificate | 33,000 yen〜 | 33,000 yen〜 | 33,000 yen〜 |
| Personal permission, Application for permission to engage in activity other than that permitted under the status of residence previously granted Supprot | 55,000 yen〜 | 55,000 yen〜 | 55,000 yen〜 |
For Employers and HR Professionals
The criteria for employee abilities and what companies seek in workers vary for each individual and company. Bringing in foreign workers with a work visa, especially those who cannot stay in Japan for an extended period by default, involves a rigorous examination. Compliance with regulations is crucial not only upon the foreigner’s entry but also throughout their stay (by both employers and individuals).
For instance, if an employer assigns tasks to a foreign employee that differ from the conditions of employment, or engages in illegal forms of employment, both the employee and the employer may face penalties, including charges for promoting illegal employment.
Our company also provides visa consulting services for employers welcoming foreign employees. Please feel free to schedule a free consultation from here.
Important Points for Those Who Have Obtained a Work Visa, Employers, etc.
Please be aware that after obtaining a work visa, various procedures are necessary. For more details, refer to the explanation page for residents in Japan.
| Applicant | Procedure | Submission Location | Submission Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| All foreign nationals holding a mid to long-term residency status (visa) | Resident registration | Municipal office with jurisdiction over the address | Within 14 days from the date of establishing residence after arriving in Japan |
| Certain visas including work visas | Notification procedures regarding affiliated institutions, etc. | Immigration Services Agency | Within 14 days of changes in the name or location of the activity institution, dissolution of the activity institution, or departure/transference from the activity institution |
| Employers or contracting entities | Notification of employment status of foreigners | Hello Work office in the jurisdiction where the business is located | For foreign employees covered by employment insurance: within 10 days from the next month for hiring, and within 10 days from the next day for separation. For foreign employees not covered by employment insurance: until the end of the next month for both hiring and separation. |
| Notification of acquisition of insurance qualification | Hello Work office in the jurisdiction where the business is located | Within 5 days from employment | |
| Declaration of acceptance of mid to long-term residents(optional) | Immigration Services Agency | Within 14 days from the start (employment, assumption of office, etc.) or end (dismissal, retirement, etc.) of acceptance (Even no penalties, but careful examination may occur during residency status extansion application). |
Editor of this article
- Ryota Yanagimoto
- Administrative Scrivener/Judicial Scrivener
At the age of 24, he passed the national examinations for judicial scrivener, administrative scrivener, and wage service manager at the same time.
While working as a full-time lecturer at a major prep school, he independently opened a legal office related to judicial scriveners and administrative scriveners,
and he has experience as a judicial scrivener and an administrative scrivener for more than 15 years so far.
He has been actively contributing to various industries such as publicly listed companies, real estate companies, financial institutions, elderly care services, and professional organizations by conducting seminars, lectures, and talks.
And now he has a record of over 60 presentations so far.
Furthermore, as the president of a Japanese language school announced by the Ministry of Justice and Acts, and an advisor to a real estate company (capable of handling foreign clients),
he has been involved in various aspects of industries related to foreigners.
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