Introduction

Understanding Japan’s residence status system is crucial for anyone planning to live, work, or study in Japan. As an immigration lawyer, we frequently field questions about the various residence statuses and application procedures. This guide addresses common inquiries based on our extensive experience helping clients navigate Japan’s immigration system.

 

 

Basics of Residence Status

What is a residence status (zairyū shikaku)?

A residence status defines the activities you are permitted to engage in while staying in Japan. Unlike a visa (which is simply permission to enter Japan), your residence status determines what you can legally do during your stay, such as working in specific fields, studying, or residing with family members.

 

How many types of residence statuses does Japan offer?

Japan offers approximately 29 different residence statuses, broadly categorized as:

• Work-related statuses (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities, Professor, Business Manager, Artist)
• Study-related statuses (e.g., Student, Research)
• Family-related statuses (e.g., Spouse or Child of Japanese National, Dependent)
• Long-term statuses (e.g., Permanent Resident, Long-term Resident)
• Specified Skilled Worker statuses
• Highly Skilled Professional status

 

What’s the difference between a visa and a residence status?

A visa is permission to enter Japan, issued by Japanese embassies or consulates abroad. A residence status determines the activities you can engage in while in Japan and is granted by the Immigration Services Agency upon arrival or when changing/extending your status within Japan.

 

 

Application Process

How do I apply for a residence status?

First-time applications typically follow this process:

1. Your sponsor in Japan applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) at a regional immigration bureau
2. Once the COE is issued, you apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy/consulate in your home country
3. Upon arrival in Japan, you’re granted the residence status specified on your COE
4. You receive a residence card at the port of entry (major airports like Narita Airport) or at the city hall

What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?

A Certificate of Eligibility is a document issued by Japanese immigration authorities confirming you meet the requirements for a specific residence status. While not mandatory, having a COE significantly streamlines the visa application process and almost guarantees the granting of the corresponding residence status upon entry.

How long does it take to process a COE application?

Processing times typically range from 1-3 months, depending on the type of residence status and current application volumes. Complex cases may take longer.

 

 

Work-Related Residence Statuses

What residence statuses allow me to work in Japan?

Work-related residence statuses include:

• Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
• Highly Skilled Professional
• Business Manager
• Professor
• Artist
• Religious Activities
• Journalist
• Medical Services
• Researcher
• Instructor
• Intra-company Transferee
• Nursing Care
• Specified Skilled Worker

Each has specific educational, experience, and salary requirements.

 

What is the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” status?

This is the most common work-related status, covering three broad categories:

• Engineer: IT, engineering, and other technical fields
• Specialist in Humanities: Business management, finance, marketing, etc.
• International Services: Translation, interpretation, language instruction, etc.

Applicants typically need a relevant bachelor’s degree or 10+ years of professional experience.

 

What is the Highly Skilled Professional status?

This points-based status offers preferential treatment to foreign professionals with advanced skills. Points are awarded based on academic credentials, professional experience, annual income, age, and other factors. Those scoring 70+ points receive benefits like a 5-year period of stay, expedited permanent residency eligibility, and the ability to bring parents or household staff to Japan.

Permanent Residency Application for Highly Skilled Professionals

Privileged measures for Highly Skilled Professionals for PR application

 

 

Student and Training Statuses

What is the “Student” residence status?

This status is for those enrolled in Japanese educational institutions ranging from Japanese language schools to universities.

 

Can I work part-time with a Student residence status?

Yes, but you must first obtain “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted Under the Status of Residence Previously Granted.” With this permission, you can work up to 28 hours per week (or 8 hours daily during scheduled school breaks).

 

 

Family-Related Statuses

What is the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” status?

This status is for foreign nationals married to Japanese citizens or for the biological or adopted children of Japanese nationals. It allows unrestricted work activities.

Spouse visa in Japan

 

What is the “Dependent” status?

This status is for spouses and unmarried children of foreign residents with certain work or study statuses. Dependents must obtain permission to work part-time (up to 28 hours weekly).

 

 

Long-Term Residence Statuses

What is “Permanent Resident” status?

Permanent Resident status allows indefinite stay and unrestricted work activities. General requirements include:

• 10 years of continuous residence in Japan (shorter for spouses of Japanese nationals and Highly Skilled Professionals)
• Good behavior and tax compliance
• Sufficient assets or ability to support yourself
• Contribution to Japan through specialized skills, investments, etc.

 

What is “Long-Term Resident” status?

This status is primarily for those with special ties to Japan, including:

• Foreign nationals of third generation Japanese (Sansei)
• Former Japanese nationals
• Refugees
• Spouses and children of permanent residents who have divorced or been widowed

Visa Application for Japanese Third Generation (Nikkei Sansei)

FAQ on Japanese Third Generation (Nikkei Sansei) Visa

 

 

Residence Card System

What is a residence card?

The residence card is the official identification document for foreign residents staying in Japan for more than three months. It contains your photo, name, nationality, residence status, period of stay, and other relevant information.

When and where do I receive my residence card?

Residence cards are issued at major airports (Narita, Haneda, Chubu, Kansai, New Chitose, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka) upon arrival. If arriving at other ports of entry, the card will be mailed to your registered address after you complete resident registration at your local municipal office.

What should I do if I change my address?

You must notify your local municipal office within 14 days of moving. They will update your residence card with the new address.

 

Extension and Changes

How do I extend my period of stay?

Extension applications should be submitted at a regional immigration bureau up to 3 months before your current period expires. Required documents typically include:

• Application form
• Photo
• Passport and residence card
• Documents proving continued eligibility (e.g., employment contract, enrollment certificate)

How do I change my residence status?

If your circumstances change (e.g., from Student to Work status), you can apply for a change at a regional immigration bureau. You’ll need documents supporting your eligibility for the new status and must apply before your current status expires.

 

Special Considerations

What is the “Designated Activities” status?

This flexible status covers activities not included in other categories, such as:

• Working holiday participants
• Recent graduates seeking employment in Japan
• Highly-skilled professionals’ parents or household workers

Each designated activity has specific requirements and restrictions.

 

What is the point-based system for Highly Skilled Professionals?

Japan uses a point system to evaluate highly skilled foreign professionals in three fields:

1. Advanced academic research
2. Specialized/technical activities
3. Business management

Points are awarded based on academic background, professional career, annual income, age, and additional factors like Japanese language proficiency. Those scoring 70+ points receive preferential immigration treatment.

 

Your Path Forward

Navigating Japan’s residence status system requires attention to detail and proper preparation. While this FAQ covers common questions, each case has its own complexities. For personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, we recommend consulting with an immigration lawyer.

Our office specializes in Japanese immigration matters and can provide expert guidance throughout your residence status application process. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your specific needs.