Many individuals are drawn to Japan due to its captivating scenery and unique culture. However, the country also offers abundant employment opportunities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking work. To facilitate this, Japan has implemented a work visa system that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the country for a specific period of time.
Eligibility:
The Japanese government has identified specific occupations that qualify for the work visa category. Here is a list of some of these occupations:
- Professor
- Artist
- Religious activists (monks, bishops, missionaries, etc.)
- Journalist
- Business manager
- Legal/accounting service provider (attorney, judicial scriveners, public accountants, etc.)
- Health workers (physicians, dentists, pharmacists, etc.)
- Researcher
- Educational instructor (teacher)
- Engineer/specialist in humanities/international service provider (IT engineer, interpreter, copywriter, etc.)
- Intra-company transferee (workers transferred to the Japanese branch)
- Nursing care
- Entertainer
- Skilled labor (animal trainer, pilot, sommelier, etc.)
- Specified skilled worker (work-ready foreign nationals with expertise in certain industrial fields)
- Technical intern (for training)
Documents Needed:
To apply for a Japanese work visa, applicants must provide specific documents to verify their occupation in Japan. The required documents include:
- Passport
- One visa application form (two for nationals of Russia, CIS countries, or Georgia)
- One photograph (two for nationals of Russia, CIS countries, or Georgia)
- Original or copy of the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – If you have an electronic COE, present it at the visa application counter or submit a printed copy.
Chinese nationals also need to submit additional documents, such as a copy of the Chinese Family Register and Temporary Residence Permit or Residence Certificate.
Application Procedure:
Applying for a Japanese work visa is a straightforward process if you have all the required documents. Here are the steps involved:
- Visit the nearest Japanese Embassy/Consulate.
- Submit your documents.
- Collect your passport.
If your visa is issued, you must enter Japan within three months from the date of issuance. Otherwise, you can simply collect your passport.
Processing Time:
According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, visa processing typically takes around five business days. However, the processing time may be extended during periods of high application volume or if any issues arise with your application.
It is worth noting that submitting proof of occupation other than the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) may result in longer processing times in certain situations. Obtaining the COE in advance is advisable to avoid potential delays.
Visa Validity:
The validity of a Japanese work visa varies based on the type of occupation and work contract. It can range from three months to five years. For more specific information, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Fees:
When submitting a visa application for Japan, applicants are required to pay a fee. The fee is JPY 3,000 (USD 21.26) for a single entry or JPY 6,000 (USD 42.53) for double or multiple entries. Contact the embassy or consulate office in your local area for precise and detailed fee information.
Understanding the Japanese work visa system is essential for those aspiring to work in Japan. By following the application procedure and fulfilling the necessary requirements, you can increase your chances of obtaining a work visa and embarking on a rewarding employment opportunity in Japan.
