Useful Columns

Permanent residence (permanent residence permit) is an attractive status that allows you to live in Japan without worrying about the expiration date of your stay, but the screening process is rigorous. Currently, based on the guidelines of the Immigration and Residency Management Agency, some of the requirements are being considered for strengthening (e.g., clarification of Japanese language ability and income criteria). In this column, we will discuss the basic...

With the shortage of labor in Japan, foreign human resources are expected to play an active role in the country, and the speed of procedures related to status of residence is extremely important for both the company and the individual. However, many people have the image that "the immigration office is always crowded" or "the procedures are complicated and hurdles are high...

One of the most attractive residence statuses for talented foreign human resources working in Japan is the "advanced professional visa. Compared to other general work visas such as the "Technical/Humanities/International Services" visa, the "Highly Specialized Worker Visa" offers unparalleled preferential treatment, including a drastically shortened period of stay until permanent residence is granted. In this article, we will discuss the 2026...

International Gyoseishoshi Lawyers based in Kyoto must be aware that we are part of the inheritance of the history, culture, and exceptional brand value that this place has built up over the past millennium. With the wave of globalization sweeping over Kyoto, what is required of us is not merely "immigration...

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...

As administrative scriveners specializing in visa applications, there is one fact that we must always keep in mind and continue to communicate to society. It is a harsh reality that not all companies are qualified to accept foreign human resources. The other side of "securing the labor force" is...

  Listen to the Project Overview Picture this: Waking up to cherry blossoms drifting past your window in a stunning centuries-old wooden townhouse. Mastering ancient craftsmanship with your own hands. Turning forgotten gems into vibrant ...

  Voice Commentary When I am involved in the field of visa application, many clients tell me, "We just don't have enough people. We receive earnest inquiries from our clients, "We need to hire people as soon as possible, even if they are foreign nationals. However, although it is very painful, we sometimes think, "Hiring in the current state is not a good idea for your company....

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...