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Aerial view of Tokyo with the red and white Tokyo Tower among high-rise buildings
Asia · Country guide

Japan

A major economy with clearly defined residence statuses, government scholarships and growing recruitment of foreign workers.

Capital
Tokyo
Languages
Japanese
Currency
Japanese yen (JPY)
Pathways covered
5

Sample content — pending verification. This page shows the structure of a Visa & Beyond guide. General descriptions are for orientation only; specific rules, fees, costs and deadlines have deliberately not been filled in. Always use the official links on this page for current requirements.

Last reviewed . Immigration rules change often. This is general educational information, not legal or immigration advice, and Visa & Beyond is not affiliated with any government. Confirm everything on the official website before you apply. Disclaimer

Overview

Japan organises stays by “status of residence”. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues visas through embassies and consulates, while the Immigration Services Agency manages residence inside Japan.

This guide does not list fees or test requirements. Check the official sites for the status that fits your situation.

Visa pathways

The main routes people research for Japan. Names are given for orientation; read eligibility, fees and processing information on the official page.

Visit & tourism

Short-term stay

Many nationalities can visit without a visa for short stays. Others apply at a Japanese embassy or consulate.

Study

Student

For students admitted to Japanese universities, colleges or language schools.

Official page
Work

Specified Skilled Worker

A residence status for workers in designated sectors who pass the required skills and language tests.

Work

Professional residence statuses

Several statuses cover engineers, specialists and other professionals with a job offer from a Japanese employer.

Work

Highly Skilled Professional

A points-based status with additional benefits for highly qualified professionals.

Work opportunities

Most work statuses depend on a job offer and, in many cases, a Certificate of Eligibility obtained by the employer. JETRO, the government trade organisation, publishes information for foreign businesses and professionals.

Work abroad guides

Study opportunities

Study in Japan, run by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), is the official guide to studying in Japan. The Ministry of Education (MEXT) runs Japanese Government Scholarships.

Study abroad guides

Estimated living costs

Living costs vary widely by city, household size and lifestyle. We have not yet published verified figures for this guide. When we do, each estimate will show its source and date. Use this list to plan the categories you will need to budget for.

Rent (shared or one-bedroom)Figure pending verification
Utilities & internetFigure pending verification
GroceriesFigure pending verification
Local transportFigure pending verification
Health insurance / healthcareFigure pending verification
Mobile phone planFigure pending verification
Initial set-up costs (deposit, furniture)Figure pending verification

Important requirements

Commonly requested across many visa types. The official document list for your specific visa always takes priority.

  • A valid passport. Many countries require it to remain valid for a minimum period beyond your stay; check the exact rule for your visa.
  • A completed application submitted through the official government portal or an authorised visa application centre.
  • Evidence of the purpose of your stay, such as an offer letter, letter of admission, invitation or itinerary.
  • Proof that you can support yourself financially, usually through bank statements, sponsorship letters or scholarship letters.
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo), medical examinations or police certificates may be requested for some visa types.
  • Payment of the official government fee. Fees are published on the official website and can change.

Official government resources

Official sources for Japan

Life in Japan

Japanese language ability greatly improves daily life and job prospects outside international companies. Newcomers often mention residence registration, the residence card and joining national health insurance as early steps.

Life abroad guides

Keep reading

Essential guides

Other destinations