Work Visa
Working statuses of residence, from Engineer/Specialist to HSP and Specified Skilled Worker.
11 articles
-
Changing jobs on a work visa in Japan: the 14-day notification and why you may need a Certificate of Authorized Employment
Changing jobs in Japan on a work visa? The 14-day notification you must file, when to get a Certificate of Authorized Employment, and how to avoid renewal trouble.
Read article → -
From vocational school to Specified Skilled Worker (i): what graduates need to know before changing from Student
Graduating from a vocational school in Japan? When the Specified Skilled Worker (i) visa fits, the tests and documents you need, and the fields that are closed.
Read article → -
Graduating in 2027? Changing from Student to Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa, step by step
Graduating in March 2027 with a job offer in Japan? When to apply, what immigration checks, and the mistakes that cause refusals when changing from Student to ESI.
Read article → -
Going freelance on an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa: what’s covered, and when you need extra permission
Can you freelance or take side work on an ESI visa? What your status covers, when Permission for Other Activities is needed, and what renewal requires.
Read article → -
Japan May Tighten Income Requirements for the “Highly Skilled Professional” (HSP) Visa
Japan may raise income requirements for the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa, possibly by March 2027. What has been reported and what is unconfirmed.
Read article → -
ESI Visa 2026: Key Changes at a Glance
Three ESI visa changes in 2026: stricter job-duty lines vs. Specified Skilled Worker, new documents for dispatched workers, and Japanese-language proof.
Read article → -
Revisions to the “Business Manager” Visa
Business Manager visa rules changed in October 2025: ¥30 million capital, a full-time employee, an expert-reviewed business plan, and B2-level Japanese.
Read article → -
Promotion of Countermeasures against Illegal Employment of Foreign Nationals (Revised)
Four Japanese agencies revised their measures against illegal employment of foreign nationals in May 2024. Our translation of their analysis of recent trends.
Read article → -
Digital Nomad Visa Released
Japan's Immigration Agency has released the details of a new visa for international remote workers, the Digital Nomad Visa. The visa is available to citizens of 49 countries.
Read article → -
Latest Cases of Permission and Denial (ESI Visa Application)
Here are the latest cases of permission and denial of the ESI (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services) visa application.
Read article →
Have a question about your own situation?
Our articles cover general rules. For advice on your specific case, request a consultation with a licensed gyoseishoshi.
First inquiry free · Consultation JPY 8,800 (tax incl.), up to one hour by video call · Waived if you retain our services