就労VisaのApplication手続き

Detailed explanation of 就労VisaのApplication手続き based on official information from 出入国在留管理庁. Japan

Published: January 12, 2026

Japan Visa Application Guide

1. Overview

A visa is an endorsement placed in a passport by Japanese consular authorities that allows the holder to travel to Japan and apply for permission to enter the country at a port of entry. It is not a guarantee of entry; final admission is determined by immigration officers at the border. Japan's visa system serves to regulate foreign nationals' entry while facilitating legitimate travel for tourism, business, study, work, and other purposes. Proper visa application is essential for compliance with Japanese immigration law and ensures smooth entry procedures.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This process applies to foreign nationals who require a visa to enter Japan. Whether a visa is needed depends primarily on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay.

  • Tourists from non-visa-exempt countries planning short-term visits (typically up to 90 days).
  • Business travelers attending meetings, conferences, or market research.
  • Students accepted into Japanese educational institutions for long-term study.
  • Workers with a job offer from a Japanese employer (requires Certificate of Eligibility).
  • Spouses or dependents of Japanese nationals or foreign residents.
  • Cultural activities participants (e.g., interns, researchers in non-remunerated positions).
  • Medical stay patients seeking treatment at Japanese medical institutions.

Visa exemption: Nationals of certain countries (like the US, UK, South Korea, Singapore, and EU member states) may enter for short-term tourism or business without a visa. Always verify your status based on current regulations.

3. Core Conclusions

  • Visa type must match purpose: Apply for the correct visa category corresponding to your planned activities in Japan.
  • Application through diplomatic missions: Applications are generally submitted to the Japanese embassy or consulate with jurisdiction over your place of residence.
  • Supporting documents are crucial: Incomplete or incorrect documentation is a primary reason for rejection.
  • Processing times vary: Apply well in advance of your planned travel date, as processing can take from several days to several weeks.
  • Visa validity ≠ length of stay: The visa indicates the period during which you may enter Japan. The duration of stay granted upon entry is determined by the immigration officer and is stamped in your passport.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation

  1. Determine the correct visa type: Identify which visa category (e.g., Tourist, Business, Student, Work, Spouse/Child of Japanese National) fits your purpose of visit. The official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) provides detailed descriptions.
  2. Check jurisdiction: Find the Japanese embassy or consulate responsible for your region. Application procedures and required documents can vary slightly by mission.
  3. Gather required documents: Typical documents include:
    • A valid passport.
    • A fully completed visa application form (available from the embassy/consulate website).
    • A passport-sized photograph meeting specifications.
    • Documents proving the purpose of your visit (e.g., letter of invitation, schedule of stay, flight itinerary, hotel confirmation).
    • For work or long-term stays: The original Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the Regional Immigration Services Bureau in Japan.
    • Proof of financial capability.
    • Additional documents as specified for your visa category.

Step 2: Application & Submission

  1. Submit application: Applications are usually submitted in person, by an accredited travel agent, or by a legal representative to the embassy or consulate. Some locations may accept applications by mail; check the specific mission's rules.
  2. Pay the visa fee: A processing fee is required upon application. The fee is non-refundable, even if the visa is not issued. Please verify the exact amount with the official source as it varies by nationality and visa type.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

  1. Processing: The consular officer reviews your application. They may request additional information or an interview.
  2. Collection: Once processed, you will be notified to collect your passport. If approved, the visa will be affixed to a page in your passport.
  3. Post-approval: Upon arrival in Japan, you will proceed to immigration, present your passport with visa, and may be asked to show supporting documents. The immigration officer will grant permission to enter and stamp your passport with the status of residence and period of stay.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does it take to get a Japanese visa? A: Standard processing typically takes 5 to 7 working days. For visas requiring referral to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo (like some work or long-term visas), it can take 1 to 3 months. Always apply as early as possible.

Q2: Can I extend my visa while in Japan? A: A visa is for entry only. To extend your period of stay, you must apply for an extension of the status of residence at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau in Japan before your current permission expires. Not all statuses are extendable.

Q3: My country is visa-exempt for tourism. Can I work or study? A: No. Visa exemption or a tourist visa only permits activities classified as tourism or certain business meetings. Paid work or long-term study requires the appropriate work or student visa obtained in advance.

Q4: What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)? A: The COE is a document issued by a Japanese immigration bureau that confirms the applicant meets the conditions for a specific status of residence. It is required for most long-term visas (work, study, spouse, etc.). The sponsor (employer, school, spouse) in Japan usually applies for it on the applicant's behalf.

Q5: Do I need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test? A: Border measures related to infectious diseases are subject to change. You must check the latest entry requirements on the official websites of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare immediately before planning your trip.

Q6: My visa application was rejected. Can I reapply? A: Yes, you can reapply. However, it is advisable to address the reason for the previous rejection (often related to insufficient documentation or unclear purpose of visit) before submitting a new application.

6. Risks & Compliance

  • Overstaying is illegal: Remaining in Japan beyond the permitted period of stay is a serious violation of immigration law and can result in detention, deportation, fines, and being barred from re-entering for up to 10 years.
  • Prohibited activities: Engaging in activities not permitted by your status of residence (e.g., working on a tourist visa) is illegal.
  • Information accuracy: Providing false information or forged documents in a visa application will lead to refusal and may result in a long-term ban from applying.
  • Disclaimer: Visa regulations and procedures are subject to change. The information provided here is a general guide. You must confirm all details with the official sources listed below or your nearest Japanese diplomatic mission before applying.

7. References & Sources

8. Related Topics

  • Status of Residence (在留資格)
  • Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書)
  • Japan Residence Card (在留カード)
  • Re-entry Permit (再入国許可)
  • Japan Immigration Procedures (入国審査手続き)
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