Quick Answer
Japan offers several work visa categories, each tied to specific job types. The most common is "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services." Your employer typically applies for a Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf — processing takes 1-3 months. Government fee is ¥4,000 upon status grant.
Legal Notice
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently. For your specific situation, consult a licensed administrative scrivener (行政書士 / gyoseishoshi) or immigration lawyer.
Work Visa Categories Comparison
| Category | Typical Jobs | Education Req. | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services | IT engineer, translator, marketing, design, accounting | Bachelor's degree or 10yr experience | 1, 3, or 5 years |
| Business Manager | Company founder, CEO, branch manager | Business experience preferred | 1, 3, or 5 years |
| Intra-company Transferee | Transfer from overseas branch/subsidiary | 1+ year at the company | 1, 3, or 5 years |
| Highly Skilled Professional | Researchers, executives, advanced engineers | 70+ points on HSP scale | 5 years (indefinite renewal) |
| Specified Skilled Worker (SSW-1) | Construction, nursing, food service, agriculture, etc. | Skills test + Japanese test | Up to 5 years total |
| Skilled Labor | Chef (10yr exp.), goldsmith, pilot, sommelier | 10+ years experience in the field | 1, 3, or 5 years |
Requirements by Category
| Requirement | Engineer/Specialist | Business Manager | Intra-co. Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's or 10yr exp. | Not strictly required | Not strictly required |
| Employer | Japanese company or branch | Your own company (¥5M+ capital or 2+ employees) | Parent/related company abroad |
| Salary | Equal to Japanese doing same work | Sufficient for business viability | Equal to Japanese doing same work |
| Contract | Employment contract | Business plan | Transfer order/letter |
Application Flowchart
Cost Comparison: DIY vs Immigration Agent
| Approach | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DIY (employer handles) | ¥4,000 (stamp at grant) | COE is free; ¥4,000 stamp for residence card issuance |
| Gyoseishoshi | ¥80,000 - ¥200,000 | Recommended for small/new companies or complex cases |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for the wrong category — your degree and job duties should align with the visa type
- Salary below market rate — ISA checks that foreign workers receive equal pay
- Weak company documentation — small or new companies should provide detailed business plans
- Not disclosing previous visa refusals — honesty is important; concealment can lead to denial
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I change jobs on a work visa?
A: Yes, within the same visa category. If your new job falls under the same residence status (e.g., both are Engineer/Specialist), you notify immigration but typically do not need a new visa. If the category changes, you need to apply for a Change of Status.
Q: Can I do side work or freelancing?
A: Side work outside your visa category generally requires a "Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted" (資格外活動許可). Freelancing may require a different visa category depending on the nature and scale of the work.
Q: What if I do not have a bachelor's degree?
A: For the Engineer/Specialist category, you can substitute 10 years of relevant work experience. For International Services subcategory (translation, language teaching), 3 years of experience may suffice. Other visa categories have different requirements.
Starting a new job in Japan?
A licensed gyoseishoshi can help your employer navigate the visa application process and ensure all documentation meets ISA requirements.
Disclaimer
This article provides general information and may not reflect the latest immigration regulations. Visa categories and requirements can change. Consult a licensed gyoseishoshi (行政書士) or immigration lawyer for advice specific to your situation.
Last updated: April 2026.
