Guide to Residency in Japan

Obtaining a residency visa in Japan is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Japan gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Determine the type of visa you need
  • Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website to understand the different types of visas available, such as work, study, or family-related visas.
  • Choose the one that suits your purpose of stay.
• Prepare the necessary documents
  • Valid passport.
  • Completed visa application form, which can be downloaded from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
  • Photo (4cm x 3cm) taken within the last 3 months.
  • Certificates or documents that support your purpose of stay, such as employment contract, certificate of eligibility, marriage certificate, etc.
• Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
  • This is a document issued by a regional immigration authority in Japan, and it's usually applied for by your sponsor (e.g., employer, school, spouse) in Japan.
  • Your sponsor can apply for the COE at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau.
• Apply for a visa at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate
  • Submit the required documents, including your passport, visa application form, photo, and COE.
  • The processing time varies depending on the embassy or consulate, so make sure to check in advance.
• Arrive in Japan and obtain a Landing Permission stamp
  • Upon arrival at the airport, present your passport and visa to the immigration officer to receive a Landing Permission stamp.
• Register as a resident at your local municipal office
  • Within 14 days of finding a place to live, visit your local municipal office to register your address.
  • Bring your passport and residence card (if you have one).
• Apply for a Residence Card (Zairyu Card)
  • If you are staying in Japan for more than 3 months, you need to apply for a Residence Card at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau.
  • Bring your passport, Landing Permission stamp, and a photo (4cm x 3cm).
• Apply for a Tax Number (MyNumber)
  • Visit your local municipal office to apply for a MyNumber, which is a 12-digit individual number issued to all residents of Japan.
  • Bring your Residence Card and a document that verifies your address, such as a utility bill.
• Enroll in National health insurance
  • Visit your local municipal office to enroll in National Health Insurance, which is mandatory for all residents of Japan.
  • Bring your Residence Card and MyNumber.
• Renew your visa (if necessary)
  • Before your visa expires, visit the Regional Immigration Services Bureau to apply for a visa renewal.
  • Bring your passport, Residence Card, and any documents that support your purpose of stay.

Notes

The process of obtaining residency status in Japan can be complex and time-consuming, so it's important to be organized and patient. Make sure to double-check all required documents and consult with the relevant authorities if you have any questions. Additionally, it's recommended to learn some basic Japanese to facilitate communication and integration into Japanese society.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Japan?

"It varies on where you are from. If you are from America, you need a spouse visa (married to someone with a visa or a citizenship), working visa, or student visa. For working visa, find a job first and then move to Japan. Your employer will help with the visa process," commented one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.

"In order to visit Japan, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from a Japanese embassy or consulate prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and other documents such as proof of financial means and a return ticket. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Japan, foreign nationals must apply for a residence card at a local immigration office. The process of applying for residency involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and other documents such as proof of financial means, proof of employment, and proof of address. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required," mentioned one expat living in Japan.