🇯🇵 Common Questions About Japanese Work Visas

Introduction

For anyone planning to work in Japan, understanding the visa system is the first and most important step. Japan offers several categories of work visas based on your skills, profession, and level of expertise.
This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about Japanese work visas and explains the key requirements clearly.

What Types of Work Visas Are Available in Japan?

Japan provides multiple visa options for foreign professionals, including:

Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services

For IT engineers, designers, translators, business specialists, and other professionals with specific technical or academic backgrounds.

Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa

For workers in 12 designated labor shortage industries, such as nursing care, construction, agriculture, food service, and cleaning.

Type 1: For entry-level skilled workers with JLPT N4 or equivalent Japanese ability.
Type 2: For advanced skilled workers in construction and shipbuilding, with long-term stay and family eligibility.

Many candidates connect with verified SSW employers directly through Japan Talent Matching.

Highly Skilled Professional Visa

For individuals with exceptional qualifications — such as advanced degrees, research experience, or high professional standing. Offers fast-track residency and family benefits.

Instructor / Education Visa

For teachers working at schools, universities, or language institutions in Japan.

Choosing the correct visa type is the foundation for a successful career in Japan.

What Are the General Requirements for a Japanese Work Visa?

To apply for a Japanese work visa, you generally need:

Job Offer: A confirmed offer from a registered Japanese employer.
Qualifications: A relevant degree, professional training, or equivalent work experience.
Language Proficiency: Required mainly for SSW visas (JLPT N4–N3 level).
Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): Issued by Japan’s Immigration Services Agency through your employer.

How Long Is a Japanese Work Visa Valid?

Work visas are usually issued for 1, 3, or 5 years depending on your contract and employer.
They can be renewed if you continue working in Japan.

Can I Change Jobs With a Work Visa?

Yes — but only if your new position falls under the same visa category.
If your new job belongs to a different category (e.g., switching from teaching to engineering), you’ll need to update your visa status through Immigration.

What Is the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa?

The SSW visa targets foreign workers who can help fill Japan’s labor shortages.

Type 1: Basic-level jobs in 12 industries. Requires JLPT N4 or equivalent.
Type 2: Advanced skilled workers eligible for permanent residence and family sponsorship.

Japan Talent Matching helps connect SSW-qualified candidates with sponsoring companies across Japan.

Do I Need Japanese Language Skills for a Work Visa?

SSW visas: Japanese ability (JLPT N4–N3) is mandatory.
Engineer / Specialist visas: English-friendly jobs exist; Japanese helps but isn’t always required.
Highly Skilled Professional visas: Japanese language is optional but strongly recommended for daily life and career growth.

How Do Employers Support Visa Applications?

Japanese employers typically handle most of the paperwork, including:

Preparing and submitting the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
Providing company documentation and support for the immigration process

For SSW visas, some employers also work with Registered Support Organizations (RSOs) to help foreign employees settle in Japan.

Can My Family Join Me in Japan?

Yes. Holders of long-term or Highly Skilled Professional visas can apply for Dependent Visas for their spouse and children. Family members can live in Japan during your employment period.

Conclusion

Working in Japan as a foreign professional becomes much easier once you understand the visa categories, eligibility rules, and documentation process.
Whether you’re aiming for an IT career, a technical SSW position, or a teaching opportunity, there’s a visa pathway designed for you.

Need guidance or want to find employers who sponsor work visas?
Explore verified opportunities on Japan Talent Matching — your trusted platform connecting international talent with Japanese companies.