Application手続きとFiling先

Detailed explanation of Application手続きとFiling先 based on official information from 出入国在留管理庁. Japan

Published: January 12, 2026

Complete Guide to Visa Application Filing in Japan

1. Overview

Visa application filing is the formal process through which foreign nationals submit requests to Japanese immigration authorities for permission to enter and stay in Japan for specific purposes. This process serves as the gateway for tourism, work, study, family reunification, and long-term residence in Japan. Proper filing is crucial as it determines the legal basis of your stay, affects your ability to work, access services, and eventually apply for permanent residency or citizenship. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA) oversees this process with strict adherence to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This process applies to foreign nationals who wish to:

  • Enter Japan for short-term purposes (tourism, business meetings, visiting relatives/friends).
  • Engage in paid activities (with a work visa such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Instructor, etc.).
  • Study at a Japanese educational institution (Student visa).
  • Join a Japanese spouse or family member (Spouse or Child of Japanese National, etc.).
  • Conduct long-term business activities or invest in Japan (Business Manager visa).
  • Change their status of residence from one type to another while in Japan.
  • Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) through a sponsor in Japan, which is often the first step for mid-to-long-term visas.

You need to file an application when you are outside Japan and wish to obtain a visa to enter, or when you are inside Japan and need to change or renew your status.

3. Core Conclusions

  • Dual-Stage Process: For long-term stays, the process often involves a sponsor in Japan first obtaining a "Certificate of Eligibility" from the ISA, after which the applicant applies for the visa at a Japanese embassy/consulate.
  • Accuracy is Paramount: Applications with incomplete forms, missing documents, or inconsistencies are highly likely to be rejected or delayed.
  • Sponsorship is Key: Most work, study, and family-based visas require a legitimate sponsor in Japan (employer, school, family member) to initiate or support the application.
  • Processing Times Vary: Standard processing can take from several weeks to several months. "Preferential Processing" for highly skilled professionals is faster.
  • No Guarantee of Approval: Submission of an application does not guarantee a visa will be issued. The final discretion lies with the immigration authorities.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation

  1. Determine Visa Type: Identify the correct status of residence that matches your purpose of stay in Japan (e.g., "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services" for IT/consulting work, "Student" for university study).
  2. Gather Required Documents: Prepare all necessary documents. This universally includes:
    • A valid passport.
    • Completed application forms (specific forms vary by visa type).
    • Photograph(s) meeting official specifications.
    • Supporting Documents: These are critical and vary greatly (e.g., employment contract, company registration documents, letter of acceptance from school, marriage certificate, financial proof).
  3. Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) Route: If required, your sponsor in Japan (employer, school, relative) must apply for and receive the CoE from the regional immigration bureau in Japan. They will then send the original CoE to you.

Step 2: Application & Submission

  • If applying from OUTSIDE Japan:
    1. Receive the original CoE (if applicable).
    2. Submit your visa application, passport, CoE, and other required documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
  • If applying from INSIDE Japan (for a change/extension of status):
    1. Your sponsor or you yourself submit the application packet directly to the nearest regional immigration services bureau in Japan.
    2. You will receive a postcard (ハガキ) or notification letter once a result is ready.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

  1. Processing: The embassy or immigration bureau reviews the application. They may request additional documents or an interview.
  2. Result:
    • For applications from abroad: If approved, the visa is stamped or affixed in your passport. You must enter Japan within the visa's validity period.
    • For applications within Japan: If approved, you receive a new status of residence and a residence card (在留カード) will be issued or updated.
  3. Post-Arrival Procedures: Upon entering Japan with a mid-to-long-term visa, you must complete resident registration at your local municipal office and carry your residence card at all times.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I apply for a work visa directly without a job offer? A: No. A work visa requires a concrete job offer and sponsorship from a licensed Japanese employer. The employer typically initiates the process by applying for your Certificate of Eligibility.

Q2: How long does it take to get a visa? A: Processing times vary. A Certificate of Eligibility can take 1 to 3 months. After receiving the CoE, visa issuance at an embassy usually takes about 5 working days. Processing for applications filed within Japan also typically takes 1 to 3 months.

Q3: What is the difference between a "Visa" and a "Status of Residence"? A: A visa is a sticker in your passport issued by a consulate, granting permission to enter Japan. Your Status of Residence is granted by immigration upon entry (or via change of status within Japan) and defines what activities you are allowed to do (e.g., work, study) and your permitted length of stay.

Q4: Can I change my tourist visa (temporary visitor status) to a work visa inside Japan? A: In principle, it is not permitted. You are generally expected to leave Japan and apply for the work visa at a Japanese embassy abroad using a Certificate of Eligibility. Exceptions are rare and require special permission from immigration.

Q5: My application was rejected. What can I do? A: The immigration authorities do not typically provide detailed reasons. You can re-apply with a stronger, more complete application that addresses potential shortcomings. There is no formal appeals process for visa applications.

Q6: Do I need to use an immigration lawyer? A: It is not mandatory. Individuals and companies can file applications directly. However, for complex cases (business setups, permanent residency, cases with past compliance issues), a licensed administrative scrivener (行政書士) specializing in immigration is highly recommended.

6. Risks & Compliance

  • False Information: Providing false documents or statements is a serious offense under Japanese immigration law and can result in deportation, fines, imprisonment, and a ban on re-entry.
  • Overstaying: Remaining in Japan beyond the period permitted by your status of residence is illegal and carries severe penalties, including detention and deportation.
  • Unauthorized Work: Engaging in activities not permitted by your status of residence (e.g., working on a tourist visa) is illegal.
  • Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Immigration laws and procedures are subject to change. Always confirm the latest requirements with official sources or a qualified legal professional before applying.

7. References & Sources

8. Related Topics

  • Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
  • Status of Residence (在留資格)
  • Residence Card (在留カード)
  • Permanent Residency in Japan
  • Japanese Citizenship (Naturalization)
  • Highly Skilled Professional (高度人材) Visa
  • Working Holiday Visa for Japan
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