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.
- Gather the necessary documents for residency status in Japan. These include:
- Valid passport
- Proof of address in Japan
- Proof of employment in Japan
- Proof of financial stability
- Visit the local immigration office in Japan to apply for residency status. Bring the necessary documents with you.
- Fill out the application form for residency status. Provide all the necessary information and documents.
- Pay the application fee for residency status.
- Wait for the immigration office to process your application. This may take several weeks.
- Once your application is approved, you will receive a Certificate of Residence. This document is proof of your residency status in Japan.
- Apply for a Tax Number. This is necessary for filing taxes in Japan.
- Visit the local tax office in Japan.
- Fill out the application form for a Tax Number.
- Provide the necessary documents, such as your Certificate of Residence.
- Wait for the tax office to process your application. This may take several weeks.
- Once your application is approved, you will receive a Tax Number.
What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Japan?
“If you plan to stay in Japan for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a residence card or visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa, such as a student visa, working visa, or family visa. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, such as a passport, and proof of your financial ability to support yourself during your stay. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of your address in Japan, such as a rental agreement or utility bill,” said one expat living 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.
