Visa & Residence articles
Articles about Visa & Residence, explained from practical experience by Kaneko Hidetaka Administrative Scrivener Office.
Why the Engineer Visa Is Harder for Vocational School Graduates | Proving the Link Between Coursework and Job Duties
The Immigration Services Agency guideline judges relevance "flexibly" for university majors but requires "a considerable degree of relevance" for vocational schools. This article explains how to prove that link by matching transcripts against employment contracts.
[2026] Summary of Immigration System Changes｜The Big Picture of What Changed This Year and What Is Coming
2026 is a year in which immigration system changes have been concentrated: higher residence fees, the launch of the Specified Residence Card, stricter Japanese-language checks for students, and more. This article organizes what changes when, both chronologically and by your situation, and guides you to the detailed article for each.
Extending a Dependent Visa｜Proving You Are "Supported" and What to Do When You No Longer Are
A statute-based guide to what the Immigration Services Agency examines when you extend a Dependent residence status: proof of dependency, the 28-hour weekly cap on activities outside the status qualification, and options when a child turns adult, starts work, or a marriage ends.
For Those Handling Residence Procedures in Chiba｜Which Immigration Office, Counter Hours, and Online Applications
A guide to the immigration offices with jurisdiction over Chiba Prefecture residents (the Chiba and Matsudo branch offices of the Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau, and the main bureau in Shinagawa), their locations, counter hours, and when to use online applications — based on information published by the Immigration Services Agency.
When Your Residence Application Is Denied｜Confirming the Reason and Rebuilding a Reapplication
What to do when a change of status, extension of period of stay, or COE application is denied. A gyoseishoshi lawyer explains how to confirm the reason, what to change by denial type, how it affects your period of stay, and where appeals fit in.
Changing from Temporary Visitor to Another Residence Status｜What Are 「Unavoidable Special Circumstances」
You found a job while visiting Japan, or you married a Japanese national during a short stay. Can you change your residence status on the spot? We explain the proviso to Article 20(3) of the Immigration Control Act and the correct route via a Certificate of Eligibility.
What Is the Long-Term Resident Notification?｜The Listed Categories and the Difficulty of Item 6 (Minor, Unmarried Biological Children)
A certified administrative scrivener sets out, item by item, the categories in the Long-Term Resident Notification (Ministry of Justice Notification No. 132 of 1990), and explains why Item 6 (minor, unmarried biological children) is hard to prove, plus how non-notification cases are handled.
Revocation of Residence Status (Article 22-4) and Notification Duties | Don't Lose Your Status Over Three Months
An article-by-article explanation of the revocation of residence status under Article 22-4 of the Immigration Control Act: the three-month rule for work statuses, the six-month rule for spouses, notification deadlines and penalties, and the hearing procedure.
What Is Designated Activities No. 46 (Graduates of Japanese Universities)? An Option for Jobs the Engineer Visa Cannot Cover
Designated Activities No. 46 lets graduates of Japanese universities with high Japanese ability work in a wide range of duties, including customer service and production lines. Education and language requirements and the difference from the Engineer visa, based on the official guideline.
From April 2026: Tighter Monitoring of Student Part-Time Work | The 28-Hour Rule and New Checks by Japanese Language Institutions
From April 2026 the Immigration Services Agency of Japan requires Japanese language institutions to check students' outside-status activities every three months, keep records and report to the authorities. Counting the 28 hours, consequences of breaches, and how students, schools and employers should prepare.
From July 2026: Stricter Japanese Proficiency Checks for the Student Visa | 150 Study Hours Are No Longer Enough
The Immigration Services Agency of Japan has revised its handling of the Student status of residence. Japanese proficiency must now be verified by a test certificate or an interview. Timing, accepted tests, exceptions and practical steps explained.
What Is JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization)? How Short-Term Stays Will Change
JESTA will require visa-exempt short-term visitors to obtain online authorization before travelling to Japan. An administrative scrivener explains who is covered, when it starts, and what it means for foreign residents and employers, based on Immigration Services Agency materials.
2026 Reform: Higher Immigration Fees | What the ¥100,000 and ¥300,000 Caps Mean
The Immigration Control Act amendment enacted on May 29, 2026 raised the statutory fee ceiling to ¥100,000 for change/extension and ¥300,000 for permanent residence. Actual amounts are still to be set by Cabinet Order.
What Is the Specified Residence Card? Merging Your Residence Card and My Number Card (Launched June 14, 2026)
A guide to the Specified Residence Card launched on June 14, 2026: what the residence card and My Number Card merger means, why it is optional, no online application, 10 extra days to issue, and the validity period trap.
Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa for Interpreters and Translators｜Qualifying Work and the CEFR B2 Requirement for Customer-Facing Roles (2026 Update)
An administrative scrivener explains the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa for interpretation, translation, and other international-services work. Covers the scope of qualifying work and the target and countermeasures for the CEFR B2 language requirement for customer-facing roles taking effect in April 2026.
How the Period of Stay for the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa Is Decided (5 Years, 3 Years, 1 Year)
An administrative scrivener explains how the period of stay for the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa is determined. Covers the differences between 5 years, 3 years, 1 year and 3 months, the conditions that make a longer period of stay more likely, and key points at renewal.
Complete Guide to Required Documents for the Gijinkoku Visa｜Checklist by Category 1-4
A gyoseishoshi explains the required documents for the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa, broken down by company Category 1-4. Covers the documents to prepare for certification, change, and renewal, plus the 2026 language requirement.
Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa for Sales and Marketing｜Eligibility Under International Services and Tips for Proof
An administrative scrivener explains how to obtain the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa for sales and marketing roles. Covers eligibility under Specialist in Humanities and International Services, the link between education and duties, tips for proof, and how to avoid denial.
Changing from an Engineer/Specialist Visa to a Business Manager Visa｜Procedures for Foreign Nationals to Go Independent and Start a Business
An administrative scrivener explains the procedures for foreign nationals to change from an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa to a Business Manager visa and start a business in Japan, covering requirements, necessary preparation, timing, and key points.
Required Documents and Application Flow for the Intra-company Transferee Visa｜Adapting to the April 2026 Document Changes
A category-by-category guide to the documents required for the Intra-company Transferee visa. A gyoseishoshi lawyer outlines the flow of the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) application and key points on the document changes taking effect on April 1, 2026.
Complete Guide to the Intra-company Transferee Visa｜Requirements, Eligible Companies, and Period of Stay Explained
An administrative scrivener explains the requirements of the 'Intra-company Transferee' status of residence, the scope of eligible companies, the period of stay, and how it differs from Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services. A comprehensive overview of the basics when transferring employees from overseas locations to Japan.
The "One Year or More of Continuous Employment" Requirement and Capital Relationship for Intra-company Transferee｜Scope of Overseas Subsidiaries and Affiliates
An administrative lawyer explains the core requirements of the Intra-company Transferee visa: "one year or more of continuous employment immediately prior to the transfer" and the capital relationship of the overseas subsidiaries and affiliates that qualify. Summary of key points for proof and cautions.
Intra-company Transferee: Extension, Job Change, and Options After the Transfer Period｜Changing to Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
An administrative scrivener explains the Extension of Period of Stay for the Intra-company Transferee visa, procedures when changing jobs, and how to handle the status of residence after the transfer period ends. We outline cases of changing to Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services and returning home.
Intra-company Transferee vs. Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services: Which Status of Residence Should You Choose?
A thorough comparison of the Intra-company Transferee visa and the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (Gijinkoku) visa. An administrative scrivener explains which to choose when bringing overseas employees to Japan, from the perspectives of requirements, education, period of stay, and freedom to change jobs.
What Not to Do While Your Naturalization Application Is Pending: Moving, Changing Jobs, Travel, and Traffic Violations
An administrative scrivener explains key points to watch during a pending naturalization application. We cover how moving, changing jobs, extended travel abroad, and traffic violations affect the review, how to respond when circumstances change, and points to note under the 2026 tightening.
Naturalization for Filipino Nationals｜Loss of Nationality Certificates and Features of Required Documents
An administrative scrivener explains naturalization for Filipino nationals. We summarize how to gather home-country documents (birth and marriage certificates), the handling of nationality, points to note regarding dual nationality, and the procedures and documents specific to the Philippines.
Naturalization Interview Tips｜Questions at the Legal Affairs Bureau and How to Prepare
An administrative scrivener explains what you will be asked in the naturalization application interview. We summarize common questions, what to prepare, and points to note on the day, with tips for staying calm.
Naturalization for Minor Children: Applying Together With Parents and Required Documents
An administrative scrivener explains naturalization for minor children. We summarize how to apply together with parents, documents specific to children, and points to note when a child is born in Japan or naturalizes alone.
How to Choose Your Name After Naturalization｜Rules for Your New Family Register and Name
An administrative scrivener explains how to decide the name you will use after naturalization. Covers the rules for Japanese characters, how to keep your commonly used name, the creation of a new family register, and how surnames for spouses and children are handled.
Spouse Visa Required Documents｜Checklist by 3 Types: COE, Change, and Extension
An explanation of the documents required for a spouse visa (Spouse or Child of Japanese National), organized by three types: Certificate of Eligibility application, Change of Status of Residence, and Extension of Period of Stay. A gyoseishoshi lawyer summarizes income-proving documents and key points.
How to Bring Your Overseas Spouse to Japan｜A Guide to the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Application
A certified administrative scrivener explains the steps for applying for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to bring a spouse living overseas to Japan. We summarize the required documents, examination period, the process up to arrival, and key points to note.
Complete Guide to the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa (Spouse Visa)｜Requirements, Period of Stay, Eligibility
An administrative scrivener explains the eligible persons, requirements, and period of stay for the Spouse or Child of Japanese National status of residence. A comprehensive overview of the differences between spouses, biological children, and special adoptees, and the basics of obtaining a marriage visa.
Avoiding Suspicion of a Sham Marriage: How Spouse Visa Screening Examines a Genuine Marriage and Key Points of Proof
An administrative scrivener explains how spouse visa screening examines the substance of a marriage. We summarize cases that tend to raise suspicion of a sham marriage, trustworthy methods of proof, and the documents you should prepare.
How to Write the Questionnaire for a Spouse Visa｜Conveying Your Path from Meeting to Marriage Accurately
An administrative scrivener explains how to write the questionnaire (Statement of relationship) for a spouse visa application. We cover the path from meeting to marriage, evidence of the relationship, and points to watch when writing, and introduce how to create a questionnaire that earns trust during screening.
April 2026 Engineer Visa Reform | New CEFR B2, Declaration Form & Dispatch Rules
Explaining the key changes to the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa effective April 15, 2026. Covers CEFR B2 language requirements, representative declaration forms, and new dispatch worker rules.
Will Naturalization Screening Become Stricter from April 2026? The Gap Between Media Reports and Reality
An administrative scrivener explains the discrepancy between media reports and the actual situation at Legal Affairs Bureaus regarding the tightening of naturalization screening from April 2026.
Naturalization for Business Owners and Corporate Officers｜Corporate Tax Requirements and Additional Documents
A licensed administrative scrivener explains the additional documents, corporate tax checkpoints, and post-approval registration changes that apply when company owners and corporate officers apply for naturalization in Japan.
Good Conduct Requirement for Naturalization｜How Traffic Violations, Criminal Records, and Tax Arrears Affect Your Application
An administrative scrivener explains how traffic violations, criminal records, and tax/social insurance arrears specifically affect the good conduct requirement (Article 5, Paragraph 1, Item 3 of the Nationality Act).
Japanese Language Requirements for Naturalization｜What Level Is Needed for the Test and Interview
A certified administrative scrivener explains the Japanese language level required for naturalization applications, what to expect in interviews and written tests, and how to prepare if you're concerned about your Japanese proficiency.
Naturalization for Korean Nationals｜Family Register and Loss of Nationality in Practice
A guide to the unique considerations for Korean nationals applying for Japanese naturalization. A gyosei-shoshi explains how to obtain the Korean family register, the nationality renunciation process, and key record-keeping points.
Naturalization Livelihood Requirement | How Much Income and Assets Do You Need? Assessed on a Household Basis
A certified administrative scrivener explains the livelihood requirement for naturalization applications (Article 5, Paragraph 1, Item 4 of the Nationality Act), including income and asset benchmarks, key points for the self-employed, and how the household is assessed as a whole.
How to Write a Naturalization Statement of Motivation｜Key Points Evaluated During the Review
A certified administrative scrivener explains how to write the statement of motivation for a naturalization application, covering what reviewers value, expressions to avoid, and tips for structuring your statement effectively.
Naturalization Residence Requirement | How to Handle Excessive Absence Days Due to Business Travel or Home Country Visits
A certified administrative scrivener explains the residence requirement for naturalization applications (continuous residence in Japan for 5 or more years), including the impact of frequent overseas business trips or home country visits and practical countermeasures.
Japan Naturalization Statistics｜70-Year Analysis of Approval Rates and Application Trends
A licensed administrative scrivener analyzes 70 years of Japan's naturalization data published by the Ministry of Justice, covering application numbers, approval rates, rejection rates, nationality trends, and the 2026 outlook.
Naturalization for Vietnamese Nationals｜Loss of Nationality and Key Document Requirements
A guide to the unique considerations for Vietnamese nationals applying for Japanese naturalization. A gyosei-shoshi covers the nationality renunciation process, document acquisition, and translation requirements.
CEFR B2 Language Requirement for Engineer Visa | New Rule from April 2026
Thorough explanation of the new CEFR B2 language proficiency requirement for Engineer visa applications from April 2026. Covers the relationship with JLPT N2, target work types, exemption conditions, and equivalent tests for various languages.
Engineer Visa for Dispatch Workers | 2026 New Rules and Application Tips
Requirements and procedures for obtaining an Engineer visa as a dispatch worker. Covers the 2026 new rules, required documents, differences from SES contracts, and obligations of dispatch and client companies.
Complete Guide to Engineer Visa Categories 1-4 | Which Category is Your Company?
Complete guide to company categories 1-4 for Engineer visa applications. Covers how to determine your category, differences in required documents, and the impact of the 2026 reform.
Engineer Visa Guide for Chinese Nationals | Education Credentials & Key Points
Key points specific to Chinese nationals applying for an Engineer visa. Covers academic credential verification, degree certification, employment history documentation, common denial patterns and solutions.
Engineer Visa Guide for Vietnamese Nationals | Education Proof & Practical Tips
Key points specific to Vietnamese nationals applying for an Engineer visa. Covers education credential verification, switching from Technical Intern Training, recruitment agencies, and common pitfalls.
Changing Jobs on an Engineer Visa | Notifications, Certificates & Renewal
Required procedures when changing jobs on an Engineer visa. Covers notification obligations, Certificate of Authorized Employment, renewal considerations, and the risk of long employment gaps.
Bringing Family to Japan on an Engineer Visa | Dependent Visa Guide
How Engineer visa holders can bring their spouse and children to Japan using the Dependent visa. Covers requirements, documents, financial capacity proof, and practical tips.
Online Application for Engineer Visa | How to Use the Immigration Online System
How to use the Immigration Online Application System for Engineer visa applications. Covers eligibility, application steps, advantages and disadvantages, and tips for document preparation.
Engineer Visa Processing Times | How Long and Tips for Faster Approval
Processing times for Engineer visa applications by type and category. Covers reasons for delays and 7 practical tips for faster approval.
How to Write a Reason for Employment Letter | 5 Tips for Engineer Visa Approval
How to write a compelling reason for employment letter for Engineer visa applications. Covers what examiners look for, 5 key elements, and examples of explaining the connection between education and work.
Engineer Visa in the Hotel & Hospitality Industry | Approved vs. Denied Work
Which hotel and hospitality jobs qualify for an Engineer visa and which don't. Covers front desk, interpretation, marketing, training periods, and the comparison with Specified Skilled Worker visa.
Engineer Visa for Cool Japan & Content Industries | Anime, Games & Fashion
How to obtain an Engineer visa in anime, game, manga, music, and fashion industries. Covers approved work types, education requirements, portfolios, and freelance considerations.
Engineer Visa for Designers & Fashion Industry | Creative Professionals Guide
How graphic designers, web designers, UI/UX designers, and fashion designers can obtain an Engineer visa. Covers education evaluation, portfolio preparation, and salary standards.
How to Recruit Foreign Workers from Overseas | Engineer Visa COE Application Guide
Step-by-step guide to recruiting foreign workers from overseas using the Certificate of Eligibility. Covers the full process, required documents, scheduling, and country-specific tips.
Engineer Visa Through 10 Years of Work Experience | No Degree Required
How to obtain an Engineer visa with 10+ years of work experience instead of a university degree. Covers counting methods, proof documentation, the 3-year route for international services, and common pitfalls.
Switching from Technical Intern Training to Engineer Visa | Requirements & Process
Requirements and procedures for changing from Technical Intern Training to an Engineer visa. Covers education requirements, job restrictions, comparison with Specified Skilled Worker, and success tips.
Engineer Visa for Newly Established Companies | Category 4 Strategy Guide
How newly established companies can successfully obtain Engineer visas despite strict Category 4 screening. Covers business plan writing, supplementary documents, and common mistakes to avoid.
Can You Have a Side Job on an Engineer Visa? | Rules for Multiple Employment
Rules and procedures for Engineer visa holders who want to work side jobs. Covers when permission is needed, allowed and prohibited side work, notification duties, and tax implications.
Engineer Visa Revocation Risks | How to Avoid Losing Your Status
7 cases where an Engineer visa can be revoked and how to prevent them. Covers the revocation system, process, consequences, and daily prevention measures.
Engineer Visa Denial Cases and Countermeasures | Five Pitfalls
Five typical patterns that lead to denial in Engineer visa applications, with concrete countermeasures. We explain cases such as falling under unskilled labour, insufficient relevance, and insufficient remuneration.
The Points System in Permanent Residence Screening | Positive Factors and Negative Risks
The factors emphasized in permanent residence screening, sorted into 'positive factors' and 'negative risks.' An Administrative Scrivener explains the points that put your application in a favorable position.
Costs and Compensation for Specified Skilled Worker | The Full Picture of Company-Borne and Worker-Borne Costs
An overview of the costs of employing Specified Skilled Worker foreign nationals. We explain test fees, travel costs, support outsourcing fees, salary levels, and the costs borne by companies and workers respectively, by field.
10 Procedures to Complete After Naturalization Is Approved | Where to File and Deadlines
A list of the notifications and change procedures required after naturalization is approved. Handle family register notification, passport, driver's license, bank accounts and more without omissions.
Engineer Visa for IT Engineers | How to Use the Information Technology Engineers Examination
How IT engineers can obtain an Engineer visa. We explain substituting information processing qualifications such as the Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination for the academic requirement, and the mutual recognition of overseas examinations.
A Complete List of Documents Required for a Permanent Residence Application | Checklist by Category
A complete list of the documents required for a permanent residence application, organized by category. A checklist for preparing personal status, employment, financial, and social insurance documents without omissions.
Differences Between Specified Skilled Worker and the Engineer Visa | Which Visa Is Best for You?
A thorough comparison of Specified Skilled Worker and Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (the Engineer visa). Compares the two across 7 items including educational requirements, job restrictions, freedom to change jobs, and the path to permanent residence.
5 Reasons Naturalization Applications Are Denied and How to Address Them
Reasons for denial of naturalization applications classified into five patterns. Explains concrete measures for avoiding denial, covering traffic violations, unpaid taxes, false declarations and more.
How to Obtain an Engineer Visa as a Vocational School Graduate | Using the "Diploma of Specialist"
Conditions for vocational school graduates to obtain an Engineer visa. The key is the "Diploma of Specialist" title and the relevance of the field of study. Explains application points for graduates of Japanese vocational schools.
Applying for Permanent Residence as a Family | Key Points for Simultaneous Applications with a Spouse and Children
Key points when the whole family applies for permanent residence. We explain the requirements for spouses and children, how to calculate household income, and the advantages of applying simultaneously.
Specified Skilled Worker in Food Service and Food/Beverage Manufacturing | Securing Talent for the Food Industry
How to make use of the Specified Skilled Worker visa in the food service and food and beverage manufacturing sectors. Explains test content, scope of work, and key points for accepting workers, for businesses in the food industry.
Naturalization Applications for Chinese Nationals | Loss of Nationality and Distinctive Required Documents
Procedures specific to Chinese nationals naturalizing in Japan. An Administrative Scrivener explains the withdrawal-of-nationality procedure under Chinese nationality law and how to obtain documents at the Chinese embassy.
Engineer Visa Salary Requirements | Criteria for "Equal to or Above Japanese Nationals"
Specific criteria for the Engineer visa salary requirement of "remuneration equal to or greater than that received by a Japanese national performing the same work." Covers salary levels, regional differences, and consideration of years of experience.
The Fastest Route from an Engineer Visa to Permanent Residence | How to Obtain Permanent Residence in 5 Years
An explanation of the fastest route to obtaining permanent residence from an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa. We explain in detail the conditions that make a permanent residence application possible with 5 years of employment.
Specified Skilled Worker in the Construction Field | The Special Requirements of CCUS Registration and JAC Membership
The special requirements that apply when hiring Specified Skilled Worker foreign nationals in the construction field. We explain conditions not found in other fields, including registration with the Construction Career Up System (CCUS), JAC membership, and monthly salary payment.
Tax and Pension Checkpoints for Naturalization Applications | Non-Payment Is Fatal
The payment status of taxes (resident tax, income tax), pension, and health insurance examined in naturalization applications. We also explain how to recover if there are unpaid amounts.
Checklist to Avoid Denial When Renewing Your Engineer Visa
Key points for the application for extension of period of stay on an Engineer visa. We explain the notification obligation when changing jobs, the impact of changes in job duties, and the documents required for renewal in checklist form.
If Your Permanent Residence Application Is Denied | Analyzing the Reasons and Strategy for Reapplying
What to do if your permanent residence application is denied. An Administrative Scrivener explains how to find out the reason for denial, the five main denial patterns, and how to prepare for reapplying.
Complete Guide to the Highly Skilled Professional Visa | Points Calculation and Preferential Treatment
An Administrative Scrivener explains in detail how points are calculated for the Highly Skilled Professional visa, the difference between 70 and 80 points, and the preferential measures (permanent residence in as little as 1 year). For those who want to build a career in Japan as highly skilled talent.
Guide to Permanent Residence Applications | Requirements, Processing Period, Required Documents
An Administrative Scrivener explains in detail the requirements for permanent residence, the conditions on period of stay, required documents, and the processing period. There are also cases where it can be obtained without 10 years of residence.
Complete Guide to the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa
An Administrative Scrivener explains in detail the requirements, application procedures, and required documents for the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa (Engineer visa). Covers a wide range of occupations including engineers, interpreters, and marketing positions.
Support Plan for Specified Skilled Worker (i) | A Detailed Explanation of the 10 Items of Mandatory Support
A detailed explanation of the content and implementation methods of the 10 items of mandatory support for Specified Skilled Worker (i) foreign nationals, including pre-arrival guidance, securing housing, and life orientation.
The Naturalization Process and Examination Period | A Complete Guide from Consultation to Approval
A step-by-step explanation of the naturalization procedure from the preliminary consultation at the Legal Affairs Bureau through to approval. We also introduce estimated examination periods and key points for the interview.
Client Story: Obtaining an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa
We introduce a case of residence status acquisition supported by our office. Here we summarize the process and key points of how a foreign engineer obtained an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa.
Requirements and Cautions for Companies Hiring on an Engineer Visa | Categories 1-4
For Engineer visa applications, the required documents differ greatly depending on the category of the employing company. We explain the differences between Categories 1-4 and the documents companies should prepare.
What Is the Revocation of Permanent Residence? | Covered Conduct and How to Prevent It
The system for revocation of permanent residence introduced by the 2024 amendment to the Immigration Control Act. We explain the conduct subject to revocation and concrete measures to protect your permanent residence.
Obligations of Companies Accepting Specified Skilled Workers | Everything About Support Plans and Notifications
An explanation of the obligations of companies employing Specified Skilled Worker (i) foreign nationals. Covers formulating a support plan, outsourcing to a Registered Support Organization, quarterly notifications, and other rules accepting organizations must follow.
Checklist of Documents Required for a Visa Application
A checklist summarizing the documents required for a visa application. We introduce key points for moving your application forward smoothly.
Naturalization Applications for Spouses of Japanese Nationals | Eligible After 3 Years of Residence
For foreign nationals married to a Japanese national, Article 7 of the Nationality Act relaxes the residence requirement, making a naturalization application possible after 3 years. Explains the requirements and points of caution for spousal naturalization.
Mismatch Between Your Major and Your Job? Mastering the Engineer Visa Relevance Requirement
Engineer visa applications where there is no relevance between the university major and the job duties at the employer. We explain the criteria for judging relevance and the points for getting through screening.
What Is Residence Status? Let's Cover the Basics
An explanation of the basics of the residence status system. We have summarized in an easy-to-understand way what types exist and what requirements apply.
No Need to Wait 10 Years! 7 Exception Patterns for the Permanent Residence Period Requirement
Permanent residence in principle requires 10 years of residence, but spouses can apply after 3 years and Highly Skilled Professionals in as little as 1 year. An Administrative Scrivener explains the 7 exception patterns.
Procedures for Moving from Technical Intern Training to Specified Skilled Worker | Conditions for Test Exemption
Those who have satisfactorily completed Technical Intern Training (ii) can move to Specified Skilled Worker (i) with a test exemption. A detailed explanation of the correspondence table of eligible sectors and the flow of procedures.
Naturalization for Special Permanent Residents | Requirements and Procedures for Simplified Naturalization
Naturalization applications by Special Permanent Residents (Korean residents in Japan) have relaxed requirements. An Administrative Scrivener explains simplified naturalization under Articles 6 and 8 of the Nationality Act.
Specific Examples of Occupations and Job Duties Accepted for the Engineer Visa
We explain with concrete examples which occupations are accepted and which are not accepted under the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa. Check the eligibility of IT, accounting, translation, marketing, and other roles.
Permanent Residence and Taxes, Pension, and Health Insurance | How to Build a Flawless Payment Record
Resident tax, pension, and health insurance payment records are given great weight in permanent residence screening. An Administrative Scrivener explains in concrete terms how to recover if you have missed payments.
Specified Skilled Worker Exam Guide | Test Content by Sector and Japanese Language Requirements
Details on the skills tests and Japanese language tests required for the Specified Skilled Worker visa. Covers test content by sector, testing locations, passing standards, and the difference between JLPT N4 and JFT-Basic.
Naturalization or Permanent Residence? A Thorough Comparison of 7 Differences
A comparison of naturalization (acquiring Japanese nationality) and permanent residence from 7 perspectives including voting rights, passports, pensions, and inheritance tax. Decide which one suits you.
Changing from Student to Engineer Visa | Preparing Your Application Before Graduation
Explains the procedure for changing status of residence from Student to Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services. Covers application timing, required documents, and the flow from job offer to approval of the change.
Income Requirements for Permanent Residence | Guidelines by Household Size and How to Prove Them
An explanation of the income levels required for a permanent residence application, broken down by household size. Also covers how to read tax certificates and payment certificates, and what to do if your income falls short.
Expansion of the Fields Covered by Specified Skilled Worker (ii) | The 11 Fields That Opened a Path to Permanent Residence
The Cabinet decision of June 2023 substantially expanded the fields covered by Specified Skilled Worker (ii). We explain the newly added fields, including manufacturing, food service, and accommodation, and the path to a permanent residence application.
List of Documents Required for a Naturalization Application | Prepare Everything with a Checklist
The documents required for a naturalization application organized by category: personal status, personal history, assets, tax matters and more. A complete checklist including additional documents by nationality.
[Revised December 2024] Explaining the Changes to the Engineer Visa Guidelines
The guidelines clarifying the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services residence status were revised in December 2024. An Administrative Scrivener explains the new standards and the key changes in detail.
[2025 Revision] Summary of Changes to the Guidelines for Permission for Permanent Residence
An explanation of the main changes in the Guidelines for Permission for Permanent Residence revised in February 2026. An Administrative Scrivener explains the permanent residence revocation system and the points where screening has become stricter.
Complete Guide to the Specified Skilled Worker Visa | Differences Between (i) and (ii) and the 19 Eligible Sectors
An explanation of the Specified Skilled Worker visa system. Clearly explains the differences between (i) and (ii), the 19 eligible sectors, period of stay, accompanying family members, and whether changing jobs is possible, with comparison tables.
A Thorough Explanation of the 7 Requirements for Naturalization | Article 5 of the Nationality Act
An Administrative Scrivener explains in detail the seven requirements for a naturalization application (residence, capacity, good conduct, livelihood, prevention of dual nationality, ideology, and Japanese language ability) based on Article 5 of the Nationality Act.