VISA category in Japan

There are 28 categories of VISA in Japan.

24 are related with work, 4 are not related with work.

Please see followings.

Eligibility related with work in Japan
1.Official/Diplomat2.Professor3.Artist4.Religious Activities5.Journalist
6.Highly Skilled Professional7.Business Manager8.Legal/Accounting Services9.Medical Services10.Researcher
11.Instructor12.Engineer/ Specialist in Humanities/International Services13.Inter-company Transferee14.Nursing Care15.Entertainer
16.Skilled Labor17.Special Skilled Worker18.Technical Intern Training19.Cultural Activities20.Temporary Visitor
21.Student22.Trainee23.Dependent24.Designated Activities 
Eligibility not related with work in Japan
1.Permanent Resident2.Spouse or Child of Japanese National3.Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident4.Long Term Resident

When you face any case, please feel free to contact us!

Contact Information

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg.1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref.

Phone: 045-507-5689  Mobile:090-6707-8203
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com  yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp
Representative: Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Takahiro Kotani

Comparison of Current and Proposed Stricter Requirements for Business Manager Visa (CEO, Keieisha)   September 2025

Please watch carefully what is going on regarding to the conditions of Business Manager Visa in Japan.

Business Manager Visa in Japan is not so hard to get for Foreign Nationals. Government Officials check the actual activities of Foreign Nationals after coming to Japan. Then they recognize not so small numbers of Foreign Nationals do not work based on the registrations.

1st, Government decided to change the conditions of extension of Business Manager Visa in July 2025. When applying Visa Extension, Actula performance data of the company is mandatory.

2nd, Government is considering to make conditions stricter now.

Please see the following comparison.

CategoryCurrent Requirements Proposed Stricter Requirements by the Government
Capital RequirementAt least 5 million yenAt least 30 million yen
Employment RequirementCapital of 5 million yen OR at least 2 full-time employeesCapital of 30 million yen AND at least 1 full-time employee
Management Experience / EducationNo specific requirementAt least 3 years of management/administrative experience OR a master’s degree (or higher) in management/administration
Screening ProcessFormal review of business plan Verification of funding sources Actual office setupStricter review including business plan checked by certified professionals Verification of funding sources Actual office setup
Implementation TimelineCurrent system in effectPublic comments ongoing Expect to take effect in mid-October 2025 or later
Background Prevent shell companies, align with international standards

When you face any case, please feel free to contact us!

Contact Information

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg.1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref.

Phone: 045-507-5689 Mobile:090-6707-8203
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com  yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp
Representative: Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Takahiro Kotani

How to Receive Japanese Pension Benefits after Leaving Japan?

Foreign Nationals who contributed to Japan’s National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin) and/or Employees’ Pension Insurance (Kosei Nenkin) may have a chance to receive benefits after leaving Japan. The method depends on the length of contribution and the timing.

1. at least 10 years contributions (1) Receiving National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin)

– Procedure: Apply to the Japan Pension Service (JPS) at or after age 60
– Payment method: Pension can be transferred either to a Japanese bank account or to an overseas account. Taxation and transfer conditions may vary by country.

(2) Receiving Employees’ Pension (Kosei Nenkin)

– Eligibility: National Pension + Employees’ Pension combined.
– Procedure: Apply to the Japan Pension Service(JPS) at or after age 60
– Payment method: Same as the National Pension

2.  Less than 10years contributions (1) Receiving a Lumpsum Withdrawal Payment

Procedure: Apply a Lumpsum Withdrawal Payment to the Japan Pension Service(JPS) within two years after leaving Japan.
Payment method: Payment is usually transferred to an overseas bank account.
(Note) Withholding tax 20.42% is deducted at the time of payment. Tax refund may be claimed by filing a tax return with the Japanese tax office.

3. Citizens of countries with Social Security Agreements

– For citizens of countries with which Japan has social security agreements, contribution periods in both countries may be combined to meet eligibility requirements.

<Japan Pension Service   日本年金機構 >
Website: https://www.nenkin.go.jp/
Pension Call Center: +81-3-6700-1165 (from overseas)

 Please feel free to contact us.    We will introduce some specialists!

<Contact Information>

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg.1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref.

Phone: 045-507-5689 Mobile:090-6707-8203
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com  yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp

You want to start Used Cars sales business in Japan?

Foreign Nationals living in Japan established company willingly to start USED CARS business, please see the following.

1.Add “Secondhand Dealer Business” to the Article of Association by Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting and change the Company Registration at HOUMUKYOKU.

2.Obtain Business Facilities including sufficient space for used cars stocks

3.Apply Secondhand Dealer License (Kobutsusho Permit)
   – Submit application to the Public Safety Commission through the jurisdictional POLICE DEPARTMENT
   – Processing time: 2–3 months

 (Note)*If you apply repair/modification to the purchased cars, you will have to

 get another permits/ licenses (by Fire Law/Industrial Waste Law etc.)

4.(Option Join Auto Auction: common for sourcing used vehicles)
   – Requires Secondhand Dealer License
   – May require guarantors and business history

5. Purchase Used cars
   – Acquire cars with valid registration or de-registered

6. Get Export Certificate at TRANSPORT BUREAU
   – Apply for “Export De-registration Certificate” (Yushutsu Massho Shomeisho)
   – Valid Registration Cars need de-registration &Export de-registration, De-registered cars only need Export deregistration.

——-Certificates valid 6months

7.Apply for Exporter/Importer Standard Code (Optional but recommended)
   – Register with Customs for efficient clearance

8. Prepare Export Documents
   – Invoice/Packing List/Bill of Lading (B/L)/ Export De-registration Certificate
   – Pre-shipment Inspection Certificate (if required by destination country)

9. Export Customs Clearance
   – Submit documents to Customs
   – Undergo inspection if necessary
   – Obtain export permit          

10.Shipping
   – Load vehicles onto vessel
   – Receive Bill of Lading from shipping company

11. Post-export Procedures
   – Claim tax refunds (Consumption Tax, Recycling Fee, Insurance, etc.)

From 1 to 3, GYOSEISHOSHI will help you.

Please feel free to contact us!!

Contact Information

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg.1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref.

Phone: 045-507-5689 Mibile:090-6707-8203
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com   yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp
Representative: Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Takahiro Kotani

“Skilled Labor” Status of Residence   – No.1 to No.9

The following table summarizes the ‘’Skilled Labor’’ Status of Residence No.1 to No.9 with examples of professions.

No. CategoryExamples of Professions
1Chef/Cook for Foreign Cuisine with min 10years careerChefs/cooks of Chinese, Indian, Turkish, Mid-Eastern etc.
2Engineer/Craftsman for Foreign Special Architecture/ Public Works with min 10years careerTraditional foreign specific construction technicians
3Engineer/Craftsman for producing /repairing Foreign Special products with min 10years careerTechnicians of foreign specific machines
4Jewelry/Fur Processing Craftsman with min 10years careerJewelers, precious metal workers, fur processing craftsmen
5Animal trainer with min 10years careerAnimal trainers in Circus/Zoo
6Engineer/Technician for Developing/Exploring Subsea Resource or Geothermal EnergyOil/gas drilling engineers
7Aircraft Pilot with min 250hours flying CareerAirline pilots
8Coach for sports with min3years Career or  with participating in Famous International Competition gameProfessional athletes, coaches, managers
9Wine Sommelier with public certification or excellent result at international competitionWine Sommelier, Wine appraiser

When you face any case, please feel free to contact us!

Contact Information

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg.1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref.

Phone: 045-507-5689   Mobile:090-6707-8203
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com    yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp
Representative: Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Takahiro Kotani

Comparison of 2Business Manager Visa< Business Owner vs. Manager>

This summarizes the key differences between applying for a Business Manager Visa (KEIEI・KANRI VISA) as a Business Owner (KEIEISHA) vs. as a Manager (KANRISHA) in Japan.

Item Business Owner           (KEIEISHA)   Manager
  (KANRISHA)
Company Establishment Required Not Required
Eligible Position Founder / Representative Director Hired Manager (e.g., Director, Section Chief)
Experience Requirement Not mandatory, but business experience is beneficial Min3 years of management experience (or Min5 years without a degree) *1
Minimum Capital JPY 5 million or 2 full-time employees Hiring Company must meet this requirement
Employment Contract Not required (self-employed) Required (with clear duties and salary)
Work Responsibilities Business planning, financial management, overall controlDepartment or business unit management
Salary Requirement No minimum (as owner) Must be comparable to Japanese workers (approx. JPY 300,000/month)
Business Premises Required Company must have actual office
Visa Justification Running own company Managing operations on behalf of company

*1 Graduate University majoring business related area+ Min 3 years Manager experience        OR Not graduate University +Min 5years Manager experience

    When you face any case, please feel free to contact us!

Contact Information

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg.1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref.

Phone: 045-507-5689 Mobile:090-6707-8203
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com  yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp
Representative: Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Takahiro Kotani

New Requirements for Changes to Business Manager Visa or Business Manager Visa Renewal (Effective July 2025)

Starting from July 2025, the requirements for renewing the Business Manager Visa or changing to Business Manager Visa in Japan have been revised.

Business owners and managers of Foreign Nationals are now required to provide additional documentation to demonstrate the reality and continuity of their business activities.

New Requirement: Business Activity Explanation Documents

Applicants must now submit written documents explaining their business and management activities during the previous period of stay. These documents are mandatory for all renewals of the Business Manager Visa and changes to the Business Manager Visa.

The documents should include:

  • • Business performance (sales, profit, etc.)
  • • Business transactions and client relationships
  • • The applicant’s role in decision-making and management
  • • Hiring, training, and management of employees
  • • Changes since the last application and reasons
  • • Future business plans, challenges, and strategies

Background: Stricter Evaluation of Business Substance

The immigration authorities are now placing more emphasis on whether the business has real and substantial operations. Paper companies or businesses with no real activities are more likely to face difficulties in renewal.

This stricter evaluation is intended to prevent fraudulent visa applications, such as companies created only for residence purposes without real business activities.

When you face any case, please feel free to contact us!

Contact Information

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg.1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref.

Phone: 045-507-5689  Mobile:090-6707-8203
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com  yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp
Representative: Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Takahiro Kotani

Requirements and Steps for Foreign Nationals to Obtain Specified Skilled Worker Visa(i) in the Motor Vehicle Transportation Industry in Japan!!

<Requirements>

This VISA has been implemented in 2024.
To obtain the Specified Skilled Worker visa(i) in the Motor Vehicle Transportation industry, foreign nationals must meet the following requirements:

1. Pass the Skills Evaluation Test(CBT) specific to the Motor Vehicle Transportation field in Japan.
2. Pass a Japanese language proficiency test:   – JLPT N4 or higher level
3. Secure an employment contract with a Japanese company authorized to accept Specified Skilled Workers.
4. Be in good health and have no physical or mental conditions
that would impair driving ability.
5. Must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driving license in Japan (requirements depend on the type of vehicle).

<Step-by-Step Process>

1. Japanese Language Preparation
   – Study and pass JLPT N4 or JFT-Basic.

2. Skills Evaluation Test (CBT)
   – Prepare for and pass the Skills Evaluation Test in the Motor Vehicle Transportation field.

3. Job Search and Employment Contract
   – Find a Japanese employer approved to hire Specified Skilled Workers in the transportation sector.
   – Sign a formal employment contract.

4. Apply for the Specified Skilled Worker (i) Visa
   – Submit application with the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
   – Required documents include test results, employment contract, health certificates, etc.

5. Enter Japan and Begin Work
   – Upon visa approval, enter Japan and start employment.
   – The receiving organization or a registered support organization will assist with daily life and work adaptation.

<Differences Between Taxi, Bus, and Truck Drivers>

The Motor Vehicle Transportation industry includes various types of driving jobs, each with distinct responsibilities, licensing, and skills.

1. Taxi Driver
  – Primarily transports individual passengers within cities.
  – Requires a Type 2 driver’s license in Japan.
-Strong Japanese communication skills (N5 and higher) and detailed knowledge of city streets are essential.

2. Bus Driver
  – Transports multiple passengers along fixed routes or for tourism.
  – Requires a large vehicle or bus-specific license in Japan.
  – Emphasis on passenger safety and schedule management. – Strong Japanese communication skills (N5 and higher)


3. Truck Driver
   – Transports goods and cargo between locations.
   – Requires a medium or large vehicle driver’s license, depending on truck size in Japan.
   – Focuses on cargo handling, vehicle maintenance, and long-distance driving. – Japanese communication skills (N4 and higher)

Each role may have different training and employment conditions.

– It is highly recommended to work with a licensed immigration lawyer or administrative scrivener (gyoseishoshi) !
– Emphasize the feasibility and sustainability of your business in all documents.

Contact Information

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg. 1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref. Phone: 045-507-5689
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com   yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp
Representative: Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Takahiro Kotani

Permanent Resident will be able to Invite a Child under 18 years old to Japan under “Long-Term Resident” Status/not” Dependent” Status!

If a permanent resident in Japan wishes to invite a biological child under 18years old who lives abroad, the following procedure must apply for a ‘Long-Term Resident’ visa/not ‘Dependent’ visa:

1. Conditions:
– The child must be the biological child of the applicant.
– The child must be under 18 years old and unmarried.
– The applicant must have custody and be supporting the child financially.

2. Prepare Required Documents:
– Child’s birth certificate.
– Documents proving custody (e.g., court decision or agreement).
– Proof of financial support (e.g., remittance records, tax certificates).
– Residence certificate and employment certificate of the applicant in Japan.
– A letter explaining the reason for the invitation.

3. Apply for Certificate of Eligibility (COE):
– Submit all documents to the Immigration Bureau in Japan.
– Wait for the COE to be issued (usually takes 2-4 months).

4. Apply for Visa at Japanese Embassy/Consulate:
– Once COE is issued, send it to the child.
– The child applies for a visa at the Japanese embassy in their home country.

5. Entry to Japan and Resident Registration:
– Upon arrival in Japan, the child will receive a residence card.
– Complete resident registration at the local city office within 14 days.

If you have any questions or problems, please feel free to contact us!!

Contact Information

Name: Yokohama Trinity Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Office
Address: 51 Bizcomfort Aobadai, 3F Aobadai Sankusu Bildg.

1-5-4 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama -city, Kanagawa Pref.

Phone: 045-507-5689
Email: mail@office-yokohamatrinity.com     yokohamatrinity-tk@outlook.jp
Representative: Certified Administrative Procedure Specialist Takahiro Kotani

Comparison of Business Manager Visa< Business Owner vs. Manager>

When we talk about Business Manager VISA, we mostly explain about as ‘Business Owner: KEIEISHA’.
But there is one another as ‘Hired Manager: KANRISHA’. We will show the comparison as follows.

<Business Owner>
Company Establishment: Required
Eligible Position: Founder/Representative
Experience Requirement: Not mandatory
Minimum Capital: JPY 5 million or 2 full-time employees
Employment Contract: Not required (self-employed)
Work Responsibilities: Business planning, financial management, overall control
Salary Requirement: No minimum (as owner)
Business Premises: Required
Visa Justification: Running own company

<Hired Manager>
Company Establishment: Not Required
Eligible Position: Hired Manager (e.g., Director, Section Chief)
Experience Requirement: Min3 years of management experience +College degree (or Min5 years without a degree) *1
Employment Contract: Required
Work Responsibilities: Business Unit Management
Salary Requirement: Must be comparable to Japanese workers (approx. JPY 300,000/month)
Business Premises: Actual Office Required as hiring company
Visa Justification: Managing operations on behalf of company

*1
Graduate University/College majoring business related area+ Min 3 years Manager experience
OR
Not graduate University/College+ Min 5years Manager experience