To recruit a foreign worker residing overseas, a two-step process is required: first obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in Japan, then the worker applies for a visa at the Japanese embassy/consulate in their country.
Reference: Immigration Services Agency of Japan, “Certificate of Eligibility Application”
Overall Process
| Step | Content | Duration | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hiring decision & employment contract | — | Company |
| 2 | Document preparation | 2-4 weeks | Company & applicant |
| 3 | COE application | 1-3 months | Japanese immigration |
| 4 | Send COE to applicant overseas | 1-2 weeks | Mail/EMS |
| 5 | Visa application at Japanese embassy | 1-2 weeks | Embassy/Consulate |
| 6 | Arrival in Japan | — | Airport |
Note: The COE is valid for 3 months from issuance. Entry must occur within this period.
Who Applies?
The overseas applicant cannot apply directly. A representative in Japan must file:
- Company employee (most common)
- Administrative scrivener (with filing authorization)
- Attorney (with filing authorization)
Country-Specific Notes
China
- CHSI academic verification may be required
- Allow extra time for visa issuance
Vietnam
- Credential re-issuance can be difficult — start early
- Verify recruitment agency fees
Nepal/Bangladesh
- Academic verification may take longer
- Detailed reason letters recommended
Korea/Taiwan
- Relatively smooth process
- Standard document preparation sufficient
Schedule for April Start
| Timing | Action |
|---|---|
| October (prior year) | Hiring decision, contract execution |
| November | Begin document preparation |
| December | Submit COE application |
| January-February | Screening period |
| February-March | COE issuance & overseas delivery |
| March | Visa application at local embassy |
| April | Arrival & employment start |
Our Support
For overseas recruitment of foreign talent, trust Kaneko Hidetaka Administrative Scrivener Office.
- 98% approval rate
- Languages: Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese
- Free initial consultation
- Serving Chiba, Tokyo, and nationwide (online consultation available)