Visa免除国・地域の確認

Detailed explanation of Visa免除国・地域の確認 based on official information from 出入国在留管理庁. Japan

Published: January 12, 2026

Understanding Japanese Residence Status and Visa System

1. Overview

Japan's immigration system is built upon the concept of "residence status" (在留資格), which defines a foreign national's permitted activities and duration of stay in the country. A visa (査証) is the endorsement placed in a passport by a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad, allowing the holder to apply for entry at a port of entry. The actual permission to enter and reside in Japan is granted by the immigration officer at the port of entry, who issues a "status of residence" based on the visa. This two-step process is fundamental: the visa allows you to travel to Japan to apply for entry, and the status of residence defines your legal standing while in the country. Properly managing your status of residence is critical for legal compliance, employment, access to services, and eventual pathways to permanent residency or naturalization.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This system applies to all foreign nationals who wish to enter and stay in Japan for purposes other than short-term tourism (which falls under temporary visitor status). Key scenarios include:

  • New Entrants: Individuals seeking to move to Japan for work (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Skilled Labor), study (Student), family reunification (Spouse or Child of Japanese National, etc.), or long-term stays (e.g., Cultural Activities).
  • Current Residents: Foreign nationals already residing in Japan who need to change their status of residence (e.g., from Student to Engineer), renew their period of stay, or apply for permission to engage in activities outside their status.
  • Dependents: Family members (spouse, children) of foreign residents applying for a Dependent status.
  • Highly-Skilled Professionals: Individuals applying for the preferential immigration treatment under the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) point system.

3. Core Conclusions

  • Your Status of Residence is the legal foundation of your stay, not the visa sticker in your passport.
  • You must only engage in activities permitted by your specific status. Working requires a status that authorizes it.
  • The validity period of your status is strictly enforced. You must apply for an extension before it expires.
  • Changing your purpose of stay (e.g., from student to worker) almost always requires applying for a Change of Status of Residence.
  • Leaving and re-entering Japan may require a Re-Entry Permit to keep your current status valid.
  • All residents must carry their Residence Card (在留カード) at all times and notify the municipal office of any changes in address.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation

  • Identify the Correct Status: Determine the status of residence that matches your primary purpose in Japan (e.g., "Professor" for university teaching, "Technical Intern Training" for the Technical Intern Training Program).
  • Gather Required Documents: This varies significantly by status. Common documents include:
    • Valid passport.
    • Application form (specific to the request: Certificate of Eligibility, Change of Status, Extension, etc.).
    • Passport-size photographs.
    • Documents proving eligibility for the status (employment contract, university acceptance letter, marriage certificate, etc.).
    • Proof of financial stability.
    • Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書): For most new long-term entrants, a sponsor in Japan (employer, school) must first apply for this at a regional immigration bureau. This certificate simplifies the subsequent visa application at the embassy.
  • Check Fees: Application fees apply for most procedures. Please verify the exact amount with official sources as fees are subject to change.

Step 2: Application & Submission

  • Outside Japan: After receiving the Certificate of Eligibility, submit it with your passport, visa application form, and photo to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country/region of residence.
  • Inside Japan: For changes, extensions, or other permissions, submit the complete application packet in person or by mail to the Regional Immigration Services Bureau with jurisdiction over your place of residence. Some applications can be submitted online via the Immigration Services Agency's e-Application system.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

  • Processing Time: Varies from several weeks to several months depending on the status and complexity. The Certificate of Eligibility typically takes 1-3 months.
  • Result: If approved:
    • At an Embassy: A visa will be affixed to your passport.
    • At a Japanese Airport/Seaport: Upon arrival, present your visa and Certificate of Eligibility. An immigration inspector will grant you landing permission and issue your Residence Card.
    • For an In-Country Application: You will receive a postcard or notification to pick up your passport with a new residence status sticker (stamp of permission) and/or an updated Residence Card.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between a visa and a status of residence? A: A visa is an entry permit issued by an embassy abroad. The status of residence is the legal permission to stay and engage in specific activities, granted by immigration officials in Japan. The visa is for entry; the status is for residence.

Q2: Can I work part-time with a Student visa? A: Yes, but only with prior permission. You must apply for "Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence" at immigration. There are strict hourly limits (28 hours per week during school terms). Working without this permission is illegal.

Q3: What happens if my status of residence expires? A: You become an illegal overstayer, subject to deportation, detention, fines, and a ban on re-entering Japan for a period of years. You must apply for an extension well before the expiration date.

Q4: How do I change my status of residence (e.g., from Student to Worker)? A: You must apply for a "Change of Status of Residence" at the Regional Immigration Bureau before your current status expires. You will need documents from your new employer, similar to a new work status application.

Q5: Do I need to apply for a visa to return home for a vacation? A: No, but you need a valid Re-Entry Permit. If you have a valid Residence Card, you can use a Special Re-Entry Permit by checking the box on your departure card at the airport, provided you plan to return within 1 year (or before your status expires). For absences longer than 1 year, you must apply for a normal Re-Entry Permit before leaving.

Q6: Where can I check the official status list and requirements? A: The Immigration Services Agency website provides the complete list of statuses and official application guidelines. See the References section below.

Q7: My address changed. What should I do? A: You are legally required to report your new address to your new municipal office within 14 days of moving. They will update the back of your Residence Card. Failure to do so can result in fines or affect future immigration applications.

6. Risks & Compliance

  • Strict Adherence: You must strictly adhere to the activities defined by your status of residence. Unauthorized work is a serious violation.
  • Date Management: It is solely your responsibility to manage the expiration date of your status. Do not rely on reminders from immigration.
  • Carry Your Card: Always carry your Residence Card. Police and other officials have the right to ask for it. Failure to present it can result in fines.
  • No Legal Advice: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws are complex and subject to change.
  • Consult Professionals: For complex situations, consult with a licensed immigration lawyer or administrative scrivener (行政書士).

7. References & Sources

8. Related Topics

  • Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書)
  • Residence Card (在留カード)
  • Re-Entry Permit (再入国許可)
  • Permanent Residency (永住許可)
  • Naturalization (帰化)
  • Japan's Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa
  • Technical Intern Training Program (技能実習制度)
  • Working Holiday Visa (ワーキングホリデー)
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