Visa Types

Japan Work Visa Process

Apply to work in Japan, extend a work permit or hire a foreign worker.

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Key Points for Japan Work Visa >>>

Do you need a visa to travel to Japan?

Yes, Indians need visa to travel to Japan.

Japan visa application is made online or offline?

The visa application form and file submission, including all needed papers, are done offline.

Do I need to give biometrics?

Yes, biometrics are required for obtain a visa.

Is there an interview required to obtain a Japan visa?

No, an interview is not usually required to obtain an Japan visa, but it may vary.
The embassy may interview you by phone or in person.

What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a Work visa?

Varies based on the job offer and duration of employment.

What kind of visa will we acquire from Japan?

It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport

Current Visa fees: (Updated on 16-10-2023)

For a single-entry visa: 3,000 YEN
For a double-entry or multiple-entry visa: 6,000 YEN
For a transit visa: 700 YEN

For Fee Details: Click here

 

Step-by-step guide

Let us walk you through the process

  • Before applying for a visa to Japan, it is crucial to identify the specific visa type that aligns with your purpose of travel, such as a tourist visa, work visa, or student visa.
  • Understanding the requirements and eligibility criteria for each visa type is essential to ensure a successful application process.
  • By accurately identifying the appropriate visa type, you can streamline your application process and increase the chances of obtaining a visa to Japan.

When you're ready to apply, download the visa application form, fill it out, print it, and take it with you to the Visa Application Centre along with the required documents for the chosen visa category.

  • After filling out your visa form, you must schedule an appointment at the Visa Application Centre to submit your application.
  • Once you have booked your appointment, you will receive a confirmation email and a letter of appointment.
  • If you are part of a family or group, each member needs to book a separate appointment.

  • Once you have submitted your application, you will be required to pay the visa application fee.
  • If you choose to download the form and bring it to the Visa Application Centre, you can make the payment during your appointment.
  • The visa fee must be paid at the Visa Application Centre in person.

At the Visa Application Centre, several steps will take place upon your arrival. Here's what typically happens at a Visa Application Centre.

  • Once the decision on your visa application is returned to the Visa Application Centre, you will receive an email update.
  • You can also track your visa application status online using the Reference Number provided on the invoice/receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre, along with your date of birth.

Once approved, you'll get your e-visa electronically (From April 1, 2024). E-visas are usually processed faster than regular visas. If you have an eVisa, you must show the "visa issuance notice" on your mobile device at the airport, but you need internet access to do so. PDFs, photos, screenshots, or printed copies won't be accepted.

Click here to learn how to show the "visa issuance notice" on your phone.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

When applying for a work visa to Japan from India, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:

  1. Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay in Japan.
  2. Visa application form: Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely. You can obtain this form from the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
  3. Photographs: Provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications set by the Japanese embassy or consulate.
  4. Certificate of Eligibility (COE): The employer or sponsoring organization in Japan should apply for the COE on your behalf. The COE is an official document issued by the Japanese Immigration Bureau, which verifies that you meet the necessary requirements for a work visa.
  5. Offer of Employment: Obtain an offer of employment or a contract from the company or organization in Japan that is sponsoring your work visa. This document should include details such as your position, salary, duration of employment, and other relevant terms and conditions.
  6. Academic and Professional Qualifications: Provide copies of your academic transcripts, diplomas, or certificates to demonstrate your educational background and any relevant professional qualifications.
  7. Work Experience: Submit documents that prove your work experience in the relevant field, such as employment certificates, reference letters, or employment contracts from previous employers.
  8. Curriculum Vita (CV): (including all educational history to the highest, name, address and telephone number of institutions / professional record indicating names of companies or departments, address, telephone numbers, duration, position, and work details).
  9. Proof of Financial Capability: Documentation demonstrating your financial ability to support yourself while in Japan. This may include bank statements, income tax returns, or a letter of sponsorship if applicable.
  10. Insurance Coverage: Provide proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Japan for the duration of your stay.
  11. Criminal Record Check: A criminal record check or police clearance certificate from your home country, indicating that you have no criminal record.
  12. Additional Documents: Depending on the specific requirements of your work visa category, you may need to submit additional documents. For example, if you are applying for a specialized work visa, you may need to provide specific documents related to your field of expertise.

Note: It's important to note that this checklist is a general guideline, and you should always consult the official website of the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the specific requirements for your work visa application.

  1. Working Visa (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services):
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the employer in Japan
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter
  • Academic Transcripts and Diploma
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Intra-company Transferee Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the employer in Japan
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter
  • Letter of Guarantee from the parent company
  • Academic Transcripts and Diploma
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Skilled Labor Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the employer in Japan
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter
  • Academic Transcripts and Diploma
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Highly Skilled Professional Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the employer in Japan
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter
  • Academic Transcripts and Diploma
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Technical Intern Training Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Training Plan issued by the accepting organization in Japan
  • Training Agreement
  • Academic Transcripts and Diploma
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Instructor Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter from the educational institution
  • Academic Transcripts and Diploma
  • Proof of Teaching Qualifications (if applicable)
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Entertainer Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter from the entertainment company/agency
  • Performance Schedule or Itinerary
  • Proof of Artistic Ability (such as portfolio, recordings, etc.)
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Journalist Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter from the media organization
  • Press Card or Letter of Assignment from the employer
  • Proof of Professional Experience in Journalism
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Researcher Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter from the research institution
  • Research Proposal or Plan
  • Academic Transcripts and Diploma
  • Proof of Research Experience and Achievements
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)
  1. Business Manager Visa:
  • Passport (valid for at least six months)
  • Visa Application Form
  • Photographs (as per embassy/consulate guidelines)
  • Business Plan or Proposal
  • Proof of Business Incorporation or Registration in Japan
  • Financial Statements of the Business
  • Employment Contract or Offer Letter (if applicable)
  • Proof of Financial Capability
  • Health Certificate
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Additional supporting documents (if required)

Note: Please note that this is a general document checklist, and the specific requirements may vary based on your circumstances and the embassy/consulate's guidelines. It's essential to consult the official website of the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the required documents for each employment visa/permit category.

VISA APPLICATION FORMS

Before submitting your visa application, please review the list of required documents carefully. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately, reducing the chances of your application being rejected due to incorrect or incomplete documents

Download National visa application form:

Note: It’s important to note that visa requirements and procedures may change over time. Therefore, we always recommend visiting the official Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the application process for a Japanese work visa from India.

 

VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:

The process for applying for a Japanese work visa from India typically involves the following steps:

  1. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the specific type of work visa you wish to apply for. Each visa category has its own requirements, so carefully review the eligibility criteria set by the Japanese government.
  2. Find a Job in Japan: Secure a job offer from a company in Japan that is willing to sponsor your work visa. The company should be registered and authorized to hire foreign workers.
  3. Obtain Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): The company in Japan must apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on your behalf from the Immigration Bureau of Japan. Submit the necessary documents, including your job offer letter, educational qualifications, and financial records, to the company for the CoE application.
  4. Gather Required Documents: To apply for a Japanese work visa from India, gather the following documents: valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photographs, original CoE, job offer letter/employment contract, academic transcripts, financial documents, and any additional specified documents.
  5. Schedule an Appointment: Contact the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan in India to schedule an appointment for submitting your visa application. Follow their instructions regarding appointment booking and submission procedures.
  6. Submit the Application: Attend the appointment at the designated location and submit your visa application along with the required documents.Pay the visa application fee, if applicable.
  7. Visa Processing and Collection: The embassy or consulate will review your application and process your visa. Processing times can vary, so be patient.Once your visa is approved, collect your passport from the embassy or consulate. Your visa will be affixed inside your passport.
  8. Prepare for Departure: Make necessary travel arrangements, such as booking flights, arranging accommodation in Japan, and ensuring you have sufficient funds for your initial stay.

Note: It is important to consult the official website of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan in India for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding work visa application guidelines and procedures. Additionally, maintain communication with your prospective employer in Japan for guidance and support throughout the application process.

  1. Working Visa (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services): This visa is for foreign professionals in specialized fields such as engineering, IT, academic research, or international business services. It allows individuals to work in Japan based on their expertise and qualifications.
  2. Intra-company Transferee Visa: This visa is for employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to their company's branch or affiliate in Japan. It enables them to work in Japan temporarily and maintain their employment within the same organization.
  3. Skilled Labor Visa: This visa is for skilled workers in specific industries such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or other designated fields. It requires individuals to possess specific skills and experience relevant to their occupation.
  4. Highly Skilled Professional Visa: This visa is designed for individuals with exceptional skills, knowledge, or achievements in their respective fields. It offers preferential treatment and benefits, including a fast-track application process and extended visa periods.
  5. Technical Intern Training Visa: This visa is for individuals participating in technical intern training programs in Japan. It aims to provide practical training and skill development in specific industries, typically for a fixed period.
  6. Instructor Visa: This visa is for individuals employed as instructors or teachers in educational institutions or language schools in Japan. It allows them to engage in teaching activities and contribute to the education sector.
  7. Entertainer Visa: This visa is for artists, performers, musicians, and other entertainers who intend to engage in cultural or entertainment activities in Japan. It permits them to participate in events, shows, or performances during their authorized stay.
  8. Journalist Visa: This visa is for journalists, reporters, or media personnel who will be working in Japan to cover news, report on events, or conduct journalistic activities. It enables them to work in the field of journalism while adhering to the country's regulations and laws.
  9. Researcher Visa: This visa is for individuals engaged in research activities at universities, research institutions, or corporate laboratories in Japan. It allows them to pursue research projects, collaborate with local institutions, and contribute to the academic or scientific community.
  10. Business Manager Visa: This visa is for individuals who will be engaged in managing or operating a business in Japan. It includes company executives, entrepreneurs, investors, or individuals involved in corporate management activities. It enables them to oversee business operations and contribute to the economic development of the country.

Note: Each visa category has specific requirements and eligibility criteria, so it is recommended to consult with the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan for detailed information and guidance regarding the specific visa you wish to apply for.