Work visa types
When hiring a non-Japanese national in Japan, the next crucial step is ensuring they obtain the correct work-related residence status.
Unless the individual already holds a status that allows unrestricted employment — such as permanent residency — they cannot legally work in Japan without the appropriate visa.
There are many types of work visas, and it can be confusing to determine which category applies. That’s why we recommend consulting with us first.
Below is a list of the most common work visa categories.
Gijinkoku
技術・人文知識・国際業務
- Engineer (STEM-degree positions)
- Specialist in Humanities（Humanities/Arts/Social sciences degree positions)
- International Services (interpreting, translation, ...and other similar roles)
Skilled Labour
技能
- Foreign cuisine chefs
- Jewellery processing specialists
- Aircraft pilots
- ...and other designated skilled professions
SSW/Tokutei Ginou
特定技能
- Food service
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- ...and other sectors
Business Manager
経営・管理
- Director（CEO）
- Manager（e.g. Plant manager)
Intra-company Transferee
企業内転勤
- Transfer from parent company or subsidiary
- Transfer from an affiliated company
- Transfer to the Japan Sales Office from other office
Designated Activities
特定活動
- Customer service, manufacturing jobs after graduation
- Working Holiday
- Internship
- ... and misc
Entertainer
興行
- Musician
- Dancer
- Professional sports player
- ... and misc
Nursing care
介護
- Care worker (Kaigo Fukushishi/介護福祉士)
Misc
その他
- Misc
If you are unsure which visa is suitable for your employee, please contact us. We can help you identify the correct status and guide you through the application process.