Useful Columns

The Highly Specialized Visa, established by the Japanese government to give preferential treatment to outstanding foreign nationals, offers significant advantages over regular visas (e.g., shorter time to apply for permanent residence). However, in order to enjoy these advantages, it is necessary to accurately understand and apply for the complicated point calculation system...

For foreigners with a stable foundation in Japan, a permanent residence permit (permanent residency) is one of their biggest goals. However, in recent years, the screening process for permanent residence has become increasingly rigorous, and checks regarding "fulfillment of official obligations" have become very strict. In this column, we will discuss the latest screening trends and how to obtain a permanent residence...

In Japan, where labor shortages are becoming increasingly serious, the specified skills program is an important means of securing foreign workers who can be immediately effective in the workforce. However, many companies may be puzzled by the requirements they must meet and the complexity of the procedures. In this column, we will discuss the requirements for companies that are considering accepting foreign nationals with specified skills....

For internationally married couples, obtaining a "Spouse or Child of Japanese National" (commonly known as a "Spouse Visa") is the first step toward a new life in Japan. However, the application requirements are strict, and there are many cases where the application is "denied" due to lack of preparation. In this column, we will discuss some of the most important points to keep in mind when applying for a spouse visa...

For those in charge of human resources at companies that have started to hire foreigners but are not sure which visa is required, or have stopped hiring because of complicated procedures. In order to successfully hire foreign nationals, it is essential to correctly understand the types of visa statuses that you need to have and to follow the appropriate procedures...

  Video Explanation The Quietly Approaching "Wall" of Visa Renewal Currently, stricter requirements for the "Management and Administration Visa" are being implemented. While much of the media coverage has focused on the increased difficulty of "new applications," many people who already hold a visa and are running a business in Japan...

  What is Fake Student Enrollment? Tightened Immigration Screening and Key Points to Note 1. Definition of Fake Student Enrollment What is Fake Student Enrollment?.

The planned amendment to the Ministerial Ordinance governing the "Business Manager" residence status, expected in mid-October 2025, is highly likely to be a game-changer for foreign nationals aiming to start a business in Japan. The planned amendment to the Ministerial Ordinance governing the "Business Manager" residence status, expected in mid-October 2025, is highly likely to be a game-changer for foreign nationals aiming to start a business in Japan.

Audio Commentary (English) 🚀 Will the Startup Visa (Designed Activities) Screening Get Tougher? A. Since the ...

The proximity to neighboring residences is a major factor that creates significant differences in regulations and the startup process in Kyoto. 't just a matter of physical distance; it also reflects the social and cultural back...

In recent years, an increasing number of companies are hiring foreign nationals as regular or contract employees. However, when hiring foreign employees, it is important not to forget about "visa (status of residence) renewal. If the employee does not renew his/her status of residence before it expires, he/she will be in Japan illegally, and the company will be...

As of November 2025, the Immigration Bureau is in the midst of a full-scale transition to IC cards for residence cards, and it has finally become clear that the transition will be complete by the end of 2026. The plastic card will be replaced by a new residence card with an IC chip equivalent to a My Number card. ...

Residence Management to be Digitally Accelerated on June 14, 2026The "Specified Residence Card" is finally set to begin operation on June 14, 2026 (counter acceptance from June 15). This card will combine the functions of the existing "Residence Card" and "My Number Card" into a single card. Voluntary acquisition: Not mandatory for all, but for those who wish...

In the midst of a labor shortage due to the declining birthrate and aging population, foreign students are a valuable asset to the workforce. However, when hiring them, it is necessary to properly understand the rules specific to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act), which are not applicable to Japanese part-time workers. In particular, the "28-hour-per-week limit" is lenient...

Good news for foreign residents living in Japan and companies that employ foreigners! The "Residence Card" and the "My Number Card," which have previously been bulky and separate in your wallets, can now be combined into a single card. It's called the "Tokutei Zairyu Card." Starting June 2026...

When renewing "Spouse or Child of Japanese National" status (Spouse Visa), the screening process tends to become stricter year by year, and particular attention should be paid to the following points. 1. stability and continuity of marital life Continuity of cohabitation: In principle, it is most important that the couple lives together and is substantially married....

⏳ 1. Introduction: Why is my visa application so slow? Many people spend anxious days wondering when they will be granted a visa (status of residence) after applying for one. The examination period at the Immigration Bureau (Immigration Bureau) is usually from one to three months, but some applicants may wait as long as six months...

Applying for a permanent residence permit through the Highly Specialized Professional (HSP) points system is a very powerful route that can significantly shorten the normal "10 years of residence" requirement. However, in preparing the application, there are points that should be carefully considered, such as the choice of the competent authority that will conduct the examination and the timing of the career change...

Some of you who are currently working under the "Specified Technical Skills 1" status may be considering changing your status of residence to "Technical/Humanities/International Services" ("Gijinkoku") in the future. In this issue, we will discuss the change of status of residence from Tokutei Gijutsu 1 to Gijinkoku...

Important: Effective October 16, 2025, the requirements for the "Management and Administration" visa have been significantly tightened. The conventional wisdom of "investment of 5 million yen" or "one-person start-up" no longer applies. October 16, 2025 will be a historic turning point for foreigners who wish to start a business in Japan...