Japan Work Permits & Visas: Employer Guide to Types & Sponsorship

Who Needs a Work Permit in Japan

In Japan, any foreign national intending to engage in paid employment must obtain a work permit, typically in the form of a work visa corresponding to their job type. Exceptions include permanent residents, long-term residents, and spouses or children of Japanese citizens or permanent residents, who possess inherent work authorization. Employers must verify that prospective international hires have the appropriate work visas before commencing employment to comply with Japanese immigration laws.

Work Permits and Visas in Japan

Difference Between Work Permits and Work Visas in Japan

In Japan, there is an important distinction between work visas and work permits:

Work Visa: A visa is permission to enter Japan, issued by Japanese embassies or consulates abroad. It is essentially an entry document that allows a foreign national to travel to Japan.

Status of Residence: What is commonly referred to as a "work permit" in many countries is actually called a "Status of Residence" (在留資格, Zairyū Shikaku) in Japan. This status determines what activities you can legally engage in while staying in Japan, such as working in specific fields, studying, or residing with family members. The Status of Residence is granted by the Immigration Services Agency upon arrival or when changing/extending your status within Japan.

Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This is a document issued by Japanese immigration authorities confirming that an applicant meets the requirements for a specific Status of Residence. While not mandatory, having a COE significantly streamlines the visa application process and almost guarantees the granting of the corresponding Status of Residence upon entry.

In summary, to work legally in Japan, you need both:

1. A visa to enter Japan (entry permission)
2. An appropriate Status of Residence that allows work activities (work authorization)

Types of Work Visas in Japan

Work-Related Status of Residence Categories

Non-Working Status of Residence Categories (Related to Work)

Not Sure What to Pay in Japan? Compare fair, local salaries with our free benchmarking tool.

Requirements for a Work Permit in Japan

To obtain a work permit in Japan, foreign employees must meet specific criteria aligned with the visa category. Generally, applicants should possess relevant educational qualifications or professional experience pertinent to the job role.

 
• Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field is often required, especially for specialized professions.
 
• Professional Experience: Substantial work experience can sometimes substitute for formal education, particularly for Skilled Labor visas.
 
• Job Offer: A confirmed employment offer from a Japanese company willing to act as a sponsor is essential.
 
• Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Employers need to secure this document from the Japanese Immigration Services Agency to verify qualifications and job details.
 
• Clean Criminal Record: Evidence of no prior criminal convictions may be necessary.

Japan Work Permit Application Process

 
• Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
  The foreign applicant must obtain a job offer from a Japanese employer willing to sponsor the work visa.
 
• Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
  The employer applies for the COE through regional immigration authorities, verifying qualifications and job details.
 
• Step 3: Apply for the Work Visa
  After receiving the COE, the applicant submits a visa application to the Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country.
 
• Step 4: Receive the Visa and Travel to Japan
  Once issued, the employee can enter Japan and begin work.
 
• Step 5: Register Residence
  Within 14 days of arrival, employees must register their address at the local municipal office and obtain a Residence Card.

Process for Visa Sponsorship in Japan

Employers play a pivotal role in sponsoring work visas. This involves applying for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) on behalf of the employee, providing necessary company documents, and demonstrating the legitimacy of the job offer. Ensuring compliance with immigration regulations and maintaining accurate records are crucial steps for a smooth visa sponsorship process.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Japan

The fees for obtaining a work visa in Japan vary based on the type of visa and entries permitted.

Note: The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Japan, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Japan

The processing time for a Japanese work visa involves two main stages. First, obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) can take up to three months, as it requires thorough verification by Japanese immigration authorities. Once the COE is issued, the subsequent visa application at a Japanese embassy or consulate typically takes about five working days, provided there are no issues with the application.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Japan

Work visas in Japan are generally issued for durations of 1, 3, or 5 years. To continue employment beyond the initial period, it is essential to apply for a renewal before the current visa expires. Renewal applications can be submitted up to three months in advance at the regional immigration office corresponding to the applicant’s place of residence.

The renewal process involves submitting the following documents:

 
• A completed renewal application form.
 
• A recent passport-sized photograph.
 
• Your current passport and residence card.
 
• Employment verification from the sponsoring company, such as a contract or employment certificate.

A fee of ¥4,000 is required for the renewal process. The review process typically takes about two weeks to one month.

Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Japan

Japan does offer a Digital Nomad Visa as of 2025.This is a relatively new addition to Japan's visa system that was introduced to accommodate the growing trend of remote work.

Japan's Digital Nomad Visa Details

The Digital Nomad Visa in Japan allows remote workers to stay in Japan for up to 6 months while working for employers or clients outside of Japan. Here are the key features:

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be from a visa-exempt country that has a bilateral tax agreement with Japan
• Must have private health insurance coverage
• Must have a minimum annual overseas income of JPY 10 million (approximately USD 67,000)
• Must be employed by a company outside Japan or be self-employed with clients outside Japan

Key Limitations:

• Valid for up to 6 months
• Non-renewable (you must leave Japan after the 6-month period)
• Does not permit employment with Japanese companies
• Does not allow working for local clients in Japan

Application Process:

• Typical processing time is 30-90 days
• Dependents (spouse and children) are eligible to accompany the visa holder
• Application must be made from outside Japan

Important Notes:

• This visa is specifically designed for temporary stays and does not lead to permanent residency
• Visa holders must continue to work for their foreign employer or clients
• Local employment is strictly prohibited

The Digital Nomad Visa represents Japan's recognition of changing work patterns globally, though it's more restrictive than some other countries' digital nomad visa programs due to its non-renewable nature and relatively high income requirement.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Japan

Employing foreign nationals in Japan presents several challenges. To navigate these effectively, consider the following common issues and tips:

 
• Navigating Complex Immigration Procedures: The process of obtaining work visas involves multiple steps and strict documentation requirements, which can be time-consuming and intricate.
 
• Ensuring Compliance with Labor Laws: Employers must adhere to Japanese labor regulations, including employment contracts, working hours, and employee benefits, to avoid legal issues.
 
• Overcoming Language and Cultural Barriers: Effective communication and integration of foreign employees require addressing language differences and cultural nuances within the workplace.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
• Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
• Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.