Japan
This content was last updated in March 2024.
Generally, foreign nationals who come to Japan must apply for landing permission at the port of entry. The appropriate status of residence (zairyu shikaku) from among the 38 different types (there are 29 official categories) will be granted if the Japanese passport control officers grant landing permission and depending on the nature and period of the stay. In Japan, foreign nationals are only allowed to engage in those activities permitted under the status of residence granted.
In most cases, foreign nationals are recommended to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) prior to coming to Japan, except for temporary visitors.
In addition, foreign nationals are generally required to obtain an appropriate visa from a Japanese Consulate. In Japan, the term "visa" carries all or at least one of the following meanings:
- A visa issued from a Japanese Consulate located overseas
- Landing permission applicable at the port of entry
- A visa granting residency status
To avoid confusion, this chapter will refer to the specific category (i) as a visa, (ii) as landing permission and (iii) as either status of residence or visa status.
In Japan, the focus is on facilitating entry and residency for foreign nationals with specialized knowledge and skills, whereas the admission of unskilled foreign nationals has generally been outside the scope of discussion.
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