Immigration

December 21, 2016

How are points awarded for a highly skilled professional under Japan’s immigration system?

Under Japan’s new point-based immigration preference system, points are given to highly-skilled foreigners for a variety of accomplishments.  For example, points can be awarded for having a doctorate, years of work experience, Japanese fluency, high salary and published papers among other things.  Accumulating over 70 points allows the highly-skilled foreigner to qualify for special immigration preference.
December 1, 2016

How do I apply to extend my visa to stay in Japan?

Applications to renew a Japanese visa are accepted starting 3 months before the foreign national’s visa expires and will continued to be accepted right up until the last day of the visa.  To apply for a renewal of a Japanese visa, the applicant needs to prepare the necessary documents as part of the application packet.  These include the application form, a 4cm by 3cm photo of the applicant, supporting documents, passport and residence card.  The applicant must also prepare the application fee.  These documents must be submitted to the local immigration office.  Processing can take anywhere between two weeks to […]
November 9, 2016

What is a Japan Long Term Resident Visa?

A Long Term Resident visa (teijusha visa) is a visa provided to foreign nationals who are granted special permission to stay in Japan by the Minister of Justice.  The requirements for this visa are not as clearly defined as other Japanese visas but it was designed to meet a very specific purpose.  Basically the long term resident visa is granted to foreign nationals who should be allowed to stay in Japan for a special humanitarian reason. 
October 21, 2016

How long do Japanese visas last and can they be renewed?

Foreign residents in Japan are usually granted visas lasting 1, 3 or 5 years.  However, that does not mean that the foreign national must leave the country at the end of the visa term.  In general, Japanese visas may be renewed continuously, which allows the visa holder to stay in Japan for extended periods.