Visa Types for Working in Japan: Which One Do You Need?

Planning to work in Japan? Understanding the right visa type is the first and most important step. Japan offers multiple types of work visas depending on your profession, skills, and job offer. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common work visas and help you figure out which one suits your goals.

1. Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa

This is one of the most popular work visas for foreign professionals. It's ideal for people working in fields such as:

• IT and Software Development
• Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, etc.)
• Translation, Interpretation, Marketing, and Teaching English

Requirements: A bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience, plus a job offer from a Japanese company.

2. Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visa

The SSW visa was created to attract workers in industries facing labor shortages. It covers 12 job fields, including:

• Food processing
• Construction
• Agriculture
• Elderly care
• Hospitality

Requirements: Passing a skills test and a basic Japanese language exam (usually JLPT N4 or equivalent). No academic degree required.

3. Instructor Visa

This visa is specifically for foreigners teaching in public schools or private educational institutions.

Requirements: A bachelor's degree and usually a job offer from a school board or dispatch company.

4. Highly Skilled Professional Visa

This visa is for experienced professionals with advanced qualifications and higher salaries. It’s point-based, rewarding academic level, work experience, income level, and Japanese ability.

Benefits: Fast-track permanent residency (as little as 1 year), visa for spouse and children, and more job flexibility.

5. Intra-Company Transferee Visa

For employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to a branch or subsidiary in Japan.

Requirements: Must have worked for the company overseas for more than 1 year.

6. Business Manager Visa

If you’re planning to open your own business in Japan, this visa allows you to manage or invest in a Japanese company.

Requirements: A clear business plan, office space in Japan, and investment capital (usually around 5 million yen).

7. Technical Intern Training Visa

This visa is designed for foreign trainees from developing countries to gain technical skills in Japan. It’s often used in manufacturing, agriculture, and construction industries.

Note: It’s a temporary training program and not a long-term employment path. However, some interns later switch to the SSW visa.

8. Working Holiday Visa (Limited Countries)

Young people (18–30) from selected countries can work and travel in Japan for up to 1 year.

Note: This visa is not meant for full-time career work, but it’s a good starting point for exploring job opportunities while living in Japan.

Which Visa is Right for You?

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you have a job offer in Japan?
• Do you hold a university degree or have relevant work experience?
• Are you seeking a career, training, or part-time opportunity?
• Can you pass a Japanese language test (e.g., JLPT)?

Your answers will help you decide the most suitable visa type. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult with your employer, embassy, or an immigration lawyer in Japan.

Conclusion

Japan offers a wide variety of work visas, each tailored to specific roles and industries. Whether you're an engineer, a chef, a care worker, or an aspiring entrepreneur, there's likely a visa path for you. Ensure that you research thoroughly and prepare your documents carefully. Your journey to working in Japan starts with the right visa!

Have questions? Leave a comment below or check out our other guides on job hunting and life in Japan.