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 your eligibility for residency
  • Check the Immigration Services Agency of Japan website for types of visas: http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/index.html
  • Identify the category that fits your purpose of stay, such as work, study, or family.
  • Ensure you meet the requirements for the specific visa category.
• Secure a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
  • Find the application form and a list of necessary documents on the Immigration Services Agency website.
  • Prepare documents such as passport, photo, and proof of eligibility (job offer, school acceptance, etc.).
  • Submit the application through a proxy in Japan (employer, school, or family member) at the nearest immigration office.
  • Wait for the COE to be issued, which can take several months.
• Apply for a visa
  • Once you have the COE, apply for a visa at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
  • Submit the COE, passport, visa application form, photograph, and any other required documents.
  • Pay the visa fee and wait for processing.
• Enter Japan and land permission
  • Upon arrival, present your visa and COE to the immigration officer.
  • Receive landing permission, which is a stamp in your passport indicating your status of residence and period of stay.
• Register your address
  • Within 14 days of moving into your residence, visit the local municipal office to register your address.
  • Bring your residence card and passport.
  • Fill out the moving-in notification form provided by the municipal office.
• Apply for a Tax Number (My Number)
  • After registering your address, you will receive a My Number notification card by mail.
  • Visit the local municipal office with your notification card and ID (residence card or passport) to apply for the My Number card.
  • Submit an application form and a photo for the My Number card.
  • Wait for the card to be sent to your registered address.
• Enroll in National Health Insurance
  • Go to the local municipal office with your residence card and passport.
  • Fill out the National Health Insurance (NHI) application form.
  • Pay the insurance premium, which is calculated based on your income.
• Open a bank account
  • Choose a bank with English-speaking staff and international services.
  • Bring your residence card, passport, and My Number card to the bank.
  • Fill out the application form and provide a personal seal (hanko) if required.
• Stay aware of visa expiration and renewal
  • Keep track of your visa expiration date.
  • Apply for a visa extension at the local immigration office before your current visa expires.
  • Prepare similar documents as your initial application, including proof of continued eligibility.

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the specific requirements may vary depending on your nationality, the type of visa, and changes in Japanese immigration law. Always refer to the official Immigration Services Agency of Japan for the most current information and procedures.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in 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," commented one member 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," mentioned one expat living in Japan.