
For those of you who don't want to cry "disapproval."
Guided by a former Kyoto Prefecture official, a reliable visa application with a 100% approval rate.
Please feel free to contact us first!
Alex International Immigration & Legal Office
Representative: Motoyasu Matsutani, former Kyoto Prefectural Government Official (35 years in office)
Brief personal record:
Academic Background: Graduated from Ritsumeikan University, Faculty of Business Administration (majoring in marketing).
Kyoto Prefectural Government: He worked for 35 years in international relations, small business support organizations and so on.
Global Experience: Formerly stationed in Singapore (seconded to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications).
The one and only visa strategy that knows Kyoto’s administrative procedures inside and out.
Served for 35 years at the Kyoto Prefectural Government. With a meticulous administrative officer's perspective and a sensibility rooted in the local community, we will ensure your first step in Japan.

Unique Selling Proposition of our Office
“A bridge between the strict administration of Kyoto and your global ambitions.
Read how we secure your 100% success.”

Trust your visa application to experienced experts for total peace of mind.

The Mission of Immigration Lawyer to Protect the Future and Order in Kyoto
Our mission is to preserve Kyoto’s thousand-year legacy and social order for future generations. We work exclusively with partners who share this vision.
Kyoto is more than just a tourist destination. Its unique culture, historic cityscape, and the "social order" that the community has cultivated over the years are the treasures of this city.
Based on 35 years of administrative experience as a former Kyoto Prefecture official, Alex International Immigration & Legal Officedoes not just aim to "obtain your visa".Our true mission is to protect the beautiful scenery of Kyoto and maintain the peaceful order of the community.
Currently, we approach our work with the following strong convictions
- Support for those who respect the value of Kyoto: We will do our best to support those who have a deep love for Japanese culture, a passion to contribute to the preservation of Kyoto's landscape, and a sincere desire to contribute to the development of Japan.
- Inheritance of Kyomachiya and traditional techniques: As a "new guardian of Kyoto," we are promoting a project to utilize the expertise of foreign nationals in the restoration of Kyoto machiya houses and the maintenance of traditional architecture. We are convinced that this is the true form of harmony between landscape protection and international cooperation.
- Maintaining strict ethics and order: In light of our firm's philosophy, we will not accept any requests that do not share the values of the community or that may disrupt order. This is so that we can focus our limited resources on "good partners" who can truly contribute to the future of Kyoto.
Our Services
A former Kyoto Prefectural Government official, now Immigration Lawyer (Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialist), will reliably guide you from Work Visas to Permanent Residency. We fully support your acquisition of resident status, from preparing necessary documents to interview coaching, backed by a proven 100% approval rate.
Status of Residence (SOR) Applications: Smooth Acquisition of New Visas
A Kyoto-based Immigration Lawyer swiftly handles the application process for various Status of Residence, including Work Visas, Dependent Visas, and Student Visas.
-Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services VisaFor professionals such as:
System Engineers, Programmers, Mechanical Designers, Technical Developers, IT Engineers, Accountants, Planners, Marketers, Consultants, Public Relations Specialists, Sales Representatives (requiring specialized knowledge), Translators, Interpreters, Language Instructors (e.g., in language schools), International Business Professionals, and Designers.
We prepare application documents tailored to the scope of your business and expedite the approval process.

- Specified Skilled Worker VisaSupport for Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Visas active in fields facing labor shortages, such as construction, nursing care, and manufacturing.
We efficiently prepare documents for the skills exam and proof of Japanese N4 level proficiency, ensuring the successful application for Specified Skilled Worker Status (Type 1 and 2) with our 100% approval rate.

- Skilled Labor VisaFor highly advanced technicians and specialists. We meticulously compile documents to prove your practical experience, accelerating approval.
- Dependent VisaProcedures to protect family bonds. We provide support tailored to your life planning, accelerating approval.
- Student VisaSmooth entry into universities and language schools in Kyoto. We provide continuous follow-up support for visa renewal, accelerating approval.
Highly Skilled Professional Visa: More than Just a Visa

Feel free to reach out anytime, regardless of the time difference. We accept inquiries 24/7 from anywhere in the world. Inquiries in English are welcome.
Change or Renewal of Resident Status: Visa Procedures to Flexibly Accommodate Changes in Your Life
A Kyoto-based Immigration Lawyer in Kyoto efficiently handles changes from your current status of residence to a Work Visa, as well as period renewals.
We prevent expiration and help maintain a stable life in Japan.
- Application for change of status of residenceSeamless transition when getting married or changing jobs. We prepare the minimum necessary documentation, accelerating approval.
- Application for extension of period of staySuccessful extension procedures with a 100% approval rate. Zero errors guaranteed through pre-submission review, accelerating approval.
- Permission to engage in activities other than that permitted under the current status of residenceLegally engaging in side jobs or part-time work. We support the diversification of your income sources, accelerating approval.
- Re-entry permitEnsuring peace of mind during overseas business trips. Flexible support for both short and long-term stays, accelerating approval.

Feel free to reach out anytime, regardless of the time difference. We accept inquiries 24/7 from anywhere in the world. Inquiries in English are welcome.
Permanent Residency Application: Long-Term Support to Achieve Permanent Residence in Japan
A Kyoto-based Immigration Lawyer provides comprehensive follow-up for Permanent Residency applications for those seeking continuous residence in Japan.
We utilize our expertise in handling applications for those with 5 or more years of residency, helping you achieve your dream of permanent settlement.
- Application for permanent residence permitStrategic planning based on screening standards. Gain an advantage with our 100% approval rate expertise, accelerating approval.
- Preparation of necessary documentsAccurate collection of income verification and residential history. Efficiency enhanced through digital tools, accelerating approval.
- Creating a statement of reasons for applicationCompelling composition of your individual story. Capturing the attention of the immigration examiner, accelerating approval.
- Follow-upPost-application progress checking and follow-up actions. Full-fledged backup support system.


Feel free to reach out anytime, regardless of the time difference. We accept inquiries 24/7 from anywhere in the world. Inquiries in English are welcome.
Naturalization Application: Secure Acquisition of Japanese Citizenship in Kyoto
Immigration Lawyer in Kyoto expertly manages Naturalization applications for those seeking Japanese citizenship.
We handle everything from interview preparation to all necessary documentation, opening the door to your new life with our 100% approval rate.
- Application for naturalization permissionDeveloping a plan to satisfy residency requirements and Japanese language proficiency. Accelerating approval.
- Collecting necessary documentsSmooth processing of Family Register and tax certificates. We also handle the translation of overseas documents, accelerating approval.
- Interview preparationPractice of anticipated questions and creation of response scripts. Allowing you to face the interview with confidence.
- Preparation of application documentsSubmission in a perfect format compliant with Legal Affairs Bureau standards. Accelerating approval.

Feel free to reach out anytime, regardless of the time difference. We accept inquiries 24/7 from anywhere in the world. Inquiries in English are welcome.
Spouse Visa Application: Support to Protect Your Bond of Love with a Visa
A Kyoto-based Immigration Specialist (Gyoseishoshi) handles applications for the Status of Residence as a Spouse of a Japanese National or Permanent Resident with sensitivity.
We provide proof of your relationship history to ensure the reliable acquisition of your family visa.
- Spouse of Japanese National VisaTotal support, from marriage certification to life planning. Accelerating approval.
- Spouse of Permanent Resident VisaProcedures for stepping up your status. Connecting you to future Permanent Residency, accelerating approval.
- Preparation of 'Statement of RelationshipsCompelling documentation of your relationship history from the first meeting to the present. Accelerating approval.
- Preparation of supporting documentsComprehensive collection of evidence, such as photos and bank passbooks, to improve the screening success rate. Accelerating approval.

Feel free to reach out anytime, regardless of the time difference. We accept inquiries 24/7 from anywhere in the world. Inquiries in English are welcome.
Business Manager Visa Application: Accelerating Your Business Launch
A Kyoto-based Immigration Specialist (Gyoseishoshi) provides full support for the Business Manager Visa application for foreign nationals establishing or expanding a business in Japan.
We guide you to success—from drafting your business plan to company incorporation—with our 100% approval rate.
- Company establishment supportOne-stop service for Articles of Incorporation and registration procedures. Utilizing the advantages of a Kyoto location.
- Business Plan ConsultingDetailed revenue forecasting and market analysis. We ensure application success from an investor's perspective, proposing custom strategies that leverage Kyoto's regional characteristics (tourism and traditional industries). Accelerating approval.
- Fundraising and Investment Certification ConsultingStrategic planning to ensure the transparency of funding sources. Utilizing Kyoto's incubation network.
- Office Acquisition and Operational AdviceFrom finding a property that leverages Kyoto's location to preparing documentation proving the substance of your business.
We provide comprehensive consulting that addresses heightened screening requirements, ensuring stable residence in Japan.

Feel free to reach out anytime, regardless of the time difference. We accept inquiries 24/7 from anywhere in the world. Inquiries in English are welcome.

To all foreign entrepreneurs dreaming of launching a business in Kyoto, and to the supporters who stand by them:
Are you aware of the harsh reality hidden beneath the glamorous promotional slogans of Kyoto Prefecture’s “Startup Visa”?
Currently, many experts are raising alarms, stating that “Kyoto Prefecture’s support system has failed completely to keep pace with the newly tightened regulations.”
Customer Testimonials
Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
Mr. N.A.M. (Vietnam)
evaluation: ★★★★★Thanks to your professional advice and prompt support, I can now work in Japan utilizing my specialized skills. Thank you very much!
Specified Skilled Worker
Mr. M.K. (Myanmar)
evaluation: ★★★★★ I achieved my dream of working at a Japanese company thanks to obtaining the Specified Skilled Worker visa! I sincerely appreciate the support you provided to ensure I can live safely and securely in Japan.
Business Manager
Mr. I.T. (China)
evaluation: ★★★★★Thank you very much for your truly thorough support, from company incorporation right through to the visa application process. We were completely unfamiliar with the initial steps required, but your guidance clearly outlined the necessary documents and points of attention for each stage, allowing us to proceed without worry.
Application Process




Consultation
Document Preparation
Application
Approval
FAQ
What are the application requirements for the Work Visa (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services)?
The requirements for applying for a Work Visa in Kyoto are: a university degree or 10 years of professional experience, remuneration equivalent to an annual income of ¥3 million or more, and the existence of an employment contract. Our office offers expert support to ensure the highest possibility of success for your Kyoto visa application., assisting you from document preparation through to the application review process. Please contact us for a free consultation to find out more.Immigration and Immigration Control Agency Reference Page
What are the requirements for applying for Permanent Residency?
The requirements include at least 10 years of residence in Japan (with 5 years or more of employment), fulfillment of tax and social insurance obligations, good conduct, and economic stability. Although the review process is strict, our office provides thorough support, from document preparation to interview coaching. We can evaluate your situation during a free consultation.Immigration and Immigration Control Agency Reference Page
How long does the visa application process take?
For a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) application, the screening period typically takes about 1 to 3 months. Applications for a change or extension of status generally take around 1 month. It is crucial to check documents beforehand, as deficiencies can cause delays. As specialists in Kyoto visa applications, our office supports quick and smooth procedures.Immigration and Immigration Control Agency Reference Page
Is it possible to change my current status of residence (e.g., Student, Temporary Visitor) to a different visa (e.g., Work Visa)?
Yes, it is possible. Changing the status of residence (e.g., from Student visa to Work visa, or Dependent visa to Spouse visa) is one of the most common applications. However, as a general rule, changing from a Temporary Visitor visa to a long-term visa is not permitted. To file an application for a change of status, you must fully satisfy the requirements for the new status and provide appropriate reasons for the change. Specifically, when changing from a Student visa to a Work visa, there are many scrutiny points, such as the relevance between the job duties and your academic major, and the stability of the hiring company.
Why were the requirements for the Business Manager Visa (Investor/Manager Visa) tightened (made stricter) in October 2025?
Effective October 16, 2025, the previous lenient requirements—namely the minimum capital of 5 million yen and no restrictions on academic background or work history—have been abolished. The new requirements mandate a minimum capital of 30 million yen (or proof of equivalent fundraising) and the employment of at least one full-time employee. Furthermore, a Business Status Report (detailing business activities and reasons for changes) is now compulsory for renewal applications.

