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If you search for an “immigration lawyer” in Japan, you will find two types of licensed professionals who handle visa applications: bengoshi (attorneys) and gyoseishoshi. Both are national licenses, but they cover different kinds of work. This guide explains the difference, so you can choose the right professional for your situation.
What is a gyoseishoshi?
A gyoseishoshi is a nationally licensed legal professional who prepares documents submitted to government offices. The Japanese government’s English translation of the law calls them “Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialists.” In English, you may also see “administrative scrivener” or “Gyoseishoshi Lawyer.”
A gyoseishoshi who has registered with the Immigration Services Agency as an application agent (shinsei toritsugi) can:
- Advise you on which status of residence fits your situation
- Prepare your application forms and supporting documents
- Submit the application to the immigration bureau for the applicant
- Handle Certificate of Eligibility (COE), change of status, extension, and permanent residence applications
What is a bengoshi (attorney)?
A bengoshi is an attorney licensed to practice law in Japan. Bengoshi can handle all legal matters, including representing clients in court and in disputes.
Key differences at a glance
| Service | Gyoseishoshi | Bengoshi (attorney) |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare visa applications | Yes | Yes |
| Submit applications to immigration for the applicant | Yes (registered agents) | Yes (registered agents) |
| Lawsuits against immigration decisions | No | Yes |
| Deportation and detention cases | Limited | Yes |
| Disputes with employers or others | No | Yes |
| Criminal cases | No | Yes |
When a gyoseishoshi is a good fit
A gyoseishoshi is a good fit if you:
- Are applying for a work visa, such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
- Want to change your status (for example, from student to work visa)
- Need to extend your period of stay
- Are applying for permanent residence or a spouse visa
- Are an employer hiring foreign staff
When you need a bengoshi
Please contact a bengoshi if:
- You have received a deportation order or are detained by immigration
- You want to file a lawsuit against an immigration decision
- You are involved in a criminal case
- You have a legal dispute, such as unpaid wages or divorce proceedings
A gyoseishoshi cannot represent you in these matters. If your case needs a bengoshi, we will tell you.
What if my visa application is denied?
For most residence status decisions, there is no administrative appeal. The usual options are to ask the immigration bureau to explain the reasons, then reapply with stronger documents. A gyoseishoshi can help you with that reapplication. To challenge the decision in court, you will need a bengoshi.
If we handled your application and it is denied, we will prepare one reapplication for the same status of residence and purpose at no additional professional fee, as long as you ask within one month. For more on the steps after a denial, see What to Do If Your Visa Application Is Denied in Japan.
FAQ
Is a gyoseishoshi the same as a bengoshi?
No. They are separate national licenses under different laws. Both can handle visa applications, but only a bengoshi can represent you in court or in disputes.
Can a gyoseishoshi apply for my visa for me?
Yes. A gyoseishoshi can prepare your documents and submit them to the immigration bureau for you. But the applicant must be someone in Japan:
- Extension or change of status: you are the applicant.
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE): if you are in Japan, for example on a short-term visit, you can be the applicant yourself. If you are abroad, your employer, school, or family member in Japan is the applicant.
Because the gyoseishoshi submits the application, the applicant usually does not need to visit the immigration bureau. The bureau may occasionally ask the applicant to come in, for example for an interview.
How much does it cost?
Fees vary by office and by type of application. See our fees page for our fixed fees.
Can I apply for a visa by myself?
Yes. You can apply yourself. A professional helps you avoid missing documents and weak explanations that can lead to delays or denial.
Get help with your Japan visa
TKG Immigration Consulting Office is run by Keiichi Tanaka, a Gyoseishoshi (Immigration Specialist) registered as an immigration application agent. We support visa applications in English.
If you have any questions about your visa or your own situation, please feel free to contact us.