Japan Visas and Residency Cards
To stay in Japan, you need an appropriate visa and residency status. However, the process is often handled by your employer or a contracted agency (e.g., EY, PwC). Upon entering Japan, you’ll receive a residency card, which serves as your official ID as a foreign resident.
What is a Residency Card?
The residency card replaced the alien registration card and must always be carried. Failure to do so may result in a fine of up to 200,000 yen. The card’s validity depends on your residency status and personal background.
Types of Japan Visas and Residency Status
- Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa
This is the most common work visa, valid for 3 months to 5 years. The Immigration Bureau determines the duration based on your career and company details. - Permission for Activities Outside Residency Status
Earning income from activities not covered by your visa requires additional permission. This became common after 2020 due to financial hardship during the pandemic. - Highly Skilled Professional Visa
Known as the highly skilled talent visa, it has three categories:
- Advanced Academic Research (researchers)
- Advanced Technical Activities (employees)
- Advanced Business Management (managers)
Applicants need at least 70 points under the Highly Skilled Points system.
- Permanent Residency
This grants nearly the same rights as Japanese citizens, except for voting, and requires renewal every 7 years.
Next post: Detailed insights on Japan visas.