Work Visa

Work Visa Applications

Expert support from a Certified Immigration Specialist
for residence status applications needed to hire foreign workers.

✓ Free Initial Consultation ✓ Nationwide Service ✓ Evenings & Weekends OK
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Online Consultations
We primarily work via Google Meet and LINE. Consultations available from anywhere in Japan or overseas.
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Future-Focused Applications
We prepare applications with an eye toward future visa extensions and permanent residency.
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Certified Immigration Specialist
Handled by an administrative scrivener authorized to file applications with immigration on your behalf.

What is a Work Visa?

When a foreign national wants to work and earn income in Japan, they need a residence status that corresponds to their type of work. The general term "work visa" is commonly used to refer to all residence statuses that permit employment.

In reality, there is no single visa or residence status called a "work visa" — it is simply a convenient umbrella term.

Residence Statuses with No Work Restrictions

Certain residence statuses, such as "Spouse or Child of a Japanese National" or "Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident," have no restrictions on activities in Japan. Holders of these statuses may engage in any type of work without needing additional permission.

*Holders of "Dependent" status are generally prohibited from working. To work, they must obtain permission to engage in activities other than those permitted under their status, which only allows up to 28 hours per week.

Choosing the Right Work Visa (Residence Status)

Which residence status to apply for depends on what kind of work the applicant will do. It is essential that the job duties and the residence status are properly matched.

Types of Work Visas

Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services

Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services

White-collar positions that leverage specialized knowledge.

Examples Systems engineers, mechanical/electrical engineers, language instructors, trade specialists, interpreters/translators, designers, accountants, etc.
Skilled Worker visa

Skilled Worker

Positions that require mastery of specialized skills.

Examples Chinese cuisine chefs, Indian cuisine chefs, etc.
Intra-company Transferee

Intra-company Transferee

For foreign employees transferred to Japan through internal personnel transfers. The job duties must be white-collar work utilizing specialized knowledge, similar to the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services category.

Business Manager visa

Business Manager

For foreign business owners and executives.

Specified Skilled Worker visa

Specified Skilled Worker

For workers who can serve as immediate contributors in specific industries facing significant labor shortages.

Highly Skilled Professional

A residence status designed to attract highly skilled foreign professionals. It includes three categories: "Advanced Academic Research Activities," "Advanced Specialized/Technical Activities," and "Advanced Business Management Activities." Eligibility is determined by a points-based system evaluating education, work experience, and income, with 70 points or more required for qualification.

Benefits 5-year residence period, relaxed permanent residency requirements (as soon as 1 year), work authorization for spouse, ability to bring parents and domestic workers, etc.

Having trouble with a work visa application? Feel free to reach out for a consultation.

Free Consultation

Pricing

Bringing a foreign worker from overseas

Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Application

¥120,000 + tax ~
Changing your visa

Change of Residence Status Application

¥100,000 + tax ~

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About the Employer

Can a newly established company or sole proprietor hire foreign workers?

Yes, it is possible. The key factor is whether you can demonstrate the "stability" and "continuity" of your business through objective documentation. For newly established companies, preparing a detailed business plan that highlights future potential is crucial for approval. Please note that new companies typically require more documents and longer processing times.

Our financial statements show a deficit. Will the application be difficult?

A deficit alone does not automatically result in denial. What matters is properly explaining the reason — whether it's due to temporary capital investment or start-up costs. By presenting a concrete plan for returning to profitability through a business plan, there is a good chance of obtaining approval.

We haven't enrolled in social insurance. Is that a problem?

In principle, employers are legally required to enroll in social insurance (health insurance and employees' pension insurance). Social insurance enrollment is also a critical screening item in visa applications. If you haven't enrolled yet, we recommend starting the enrollment process as soon as possible.

Questions About the Foreign Employee

Are there special considerations when hiring a foreign national who has changed jobs?

It's important to verify that there hasn't been an extended gap since leaving their previous employer, and to confirm that their current residence status permits the work at your company. We recommend obtaining a "Certificate of Authorized Employment" from immigration to get advance confirmation that the job change is acceptable, which will make the next renewal much smoother.

Questions About Procedures & Costs

How long does the entire process take from consultation to the employee actually being able to work?

It varies by case, but for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) application to bring someone from overseas, preparation takes about 1 month, and immigration review takes 2 to 6 months, sometimes up to a year. After obtaining the COE, the process continues with visa issuance at a Japanese embassy abroad and then arrival in Japan. The entire timeline is at least 4 months, and can sometimes take over a year.

What happens if the application is denied?

First, we visit immigration to thoroughly investigate the reasons for denial. After analyzing the reasons, if we determine the issues can be resolved, we develop a strategy for reapplication and provide support. Our office also offers a refund guarantee for such situations, so you can proceed with confidence.

Questions About Post-Hiring

Can you also handle visa renewals for our employees?

Absolutely. In fact, ongoing support after hiring is one of our strengths. We offer continuous advisory services to ensure your employees can continue working in Japan with peace of mind, including managing individual visa expiration dates and providing timely guidance on renewal procedures.

Our employee wants to bring their family from their home country. Is this possible?

Yes, in most cases it is possible to bring a spouse or children to Japan under the "Dependent" residence status. Creating an environment where your employees can focus on their work with peace of mind is also very important for your company's growth. We are happy to assist with Dependent visa applications as well.

Work Visa Consultation

"Can I hire this person?" "Which visa do they need?" — No question is too small.
Messages accepted evenings & weekends. We typically respond within 24 hours.

03-5856-8157 Hours: Weekdays 9:00 – 18:00 (JST)