Here is a basic introduction to the Japanese immigration policy. You are recommended to contact your closest Japanese embassy or check out their websites for updates and official advice.
Entering as a Tourist
If you are a citizen of one of the 68 countries coming for tourism purposes, including the US, UK, Singapore, New Zealand and most of the European nations, you are exempted from visa (rules and conditions apply) and permitted to have a temporary stay. Otherwise, you need to obtain a visa before entering Japan. Temporary visitors from most countries are allowed to stay for up to 90 days. As official rules of Japan visa requirements may change accordingly, please check the official updates before planning your trip.
Any foreigner from outside of Japan, including foreign residents, is required to get fingerprinted and photographed upon arrival and must carry a passport in Japan at all times. You are also required to provide proof of onward travel (departure) from Japan.
Temporary visitors are strictly prohibited to work or engage in paid activities.
Staying up to One Year
If you are a couple from one of the 68 visa-free countries, and you wish to stay longer in Japan for sightseeing or recreational purposes, you may consider the Longer Stays Program. Citizens of the 68 countries with saving over 30 million yen can apply to stay for up to one year with their spouse (who stays together). Children are not eligible at the moment, and some other conditions apply. Click here to learn more about the Longer Stays Program Visa application.
Working Visa
Foreigners who wish to work in Japan must apply for a working visa from a Japanese embassy or consulate outside of Japan.
Work visas are divided into different categories according to different professional fields, such as professor, engineer, nursing care, entertainer and skilled labour.
A secured job offer is needed to apply for most types of work visa as a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) would be issued by your employer and approved by the Bureau of Immigration. You will then be under the screening process to see if you meet the requirements.
Working Holiday Visa
This is a special visa that allows citizens of Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, Chile, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Slovakia, Spain, Taiwan, and the UK to travel and work limitedly to support their trip.
The working holiday visa allows a six-month stay in Japan, and it is possible to extend two six-month period. Eligibility requirements such as applicant’s age and the maximum number of visas that can be issued per year changes accordingly. Click here for more information on Japan working holiday visa programmes.
Student Visa
If you are a citizen of one of the 68 visa-free countries, and if you plan on studying at a Japanese language school for less than 90 days, all you need is a valid passport.
However, for those who are not citizens of these 68 countries, or who want to study in Japan for more than 90 days, you are required to apply for a student visa. Please find more about the general student visa application here.
