This article is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails. Read the Japanese original（日本語版を読む）
As a rule, you need a work visa in order to be paid for work in Japan. You cannot work as a tourist or on 「短期滞在」 (Temporary Visitor). There are 6 main types of work visa, according to the kind of work, and the application starts with an application for a 在留資格認定証明書 (Certificate of Eligibility). The certificate is valid for up to 3 months from the date of issue.
Because it is the permission required by law in order to be paid for work in Japan.
A work visa is the official permission issued by the Japanese government so that a foreign national can be paid for work in Japan. You cannot work on a tourist visa or on 「短期滞在」.
Working without a work visa is a breach of the law. Not only will you be made to leave Japan, but you may also become unable to come to Japan in future. Please always obtain one in advance.
There are 6 main types, according to the kind of work and the skills involved.
This is for people such as IT engineers, programmers, translators, interpreters, designers and marketing staff, who do work that calls for specialised knowledge or skills, or work of an international nature. You need a university degree or higher, or at least 10 years of practical experience. It is the most common type, and it covers a wide range of jobs.
This is for people with special skills, such as chefs of foreign cuisine, sports instructors, pilots and sommeliers. You need at least 10 years of practical experience.
This is for people transferred to a place of business in Japan from a head office, a branch or an affiliated company overseas. You must have worked at the company overseas for at least 1 year before the transfer.
This is for people who set up and run a company in Japan, or who work as a manager of a company. Your plan for carrying on the business, your funding plan and your management ability are examined.
This is for researchers, engineers, company managers and others with advanced knowledge and skills. Education, work experience, annual income and so on are scored as points, and you need to reach a set number of points.
This is for people working in a specified industrial field where the shortage of workers is serious (nursing care, construction, agriculture, fishery, accommodation, food and drink manufacturing and so on). You must pass the skills test set for the field concerned.
It falls into 7 stages, from applying for the 在留資格認定証明書 to entering Japan.
Do not write anything that differs from the facts, gather the documents, and check the latest information.
3 things: your period of stay, the scope of the activities permitted, and notifying a change of address.
Japan's rules can change. Please check the latest information on the website of the 出入国在留管理庁 (Immigration Services Agency of Japan).
No. You cannot work on a tourist visa or on 「短期滞在」. As a rule, you need a work visa in order to work.
For 「技術・人文知識・国際業務」, the usual guide figure is around 2 to 3 months. It differs with the type of visa and with how busy the office is.
For up to 3 months from the date of issue. Within that time you must apply for a visa at an embassy or consulate and enter Japan.
For 「技術・人文知識・国際業務」, at least 10 years of practical experience can take the place of the educational requirement. Another type of work visa may also fit your case, so please talk to us.
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Get a free consultationThis article provides general information. Immigration rules change, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Please check the Immigration Services Agency website or consult a qualified specialist.
This page is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails.