Japan•AsiaVaries
3,000 JPY
3 years
Yes
Not Required
Allowed
No
Not Required
Visa for learning or research of Japanese traditional arts and culture. For activities like tea ceremony, calligraphy, martial arts, and traditional crafts under professional guidance.
The Cultural Activities Visa is a Japanese long-term residency status for individuals pursuing specialized, unpaid study or research in traditional Japanese arts and culture — such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, martial arts, or traditional music — under the guidance of a recognized expert or institution.
The visa is granted for up to 3 years and is renewable. No work authorization is granted; applicants must demonstrate sufficient personal funds or sponsorship to cover all living expenses. Dependents may accompany the holder and can apply for restricted work permission separately. No PR pathway exists.
This visa is ideal for artists, researchers, and cultural practitioners who want extended immersion in a Japanese traditional discipline without earning income during their stay.
Must be engaged in academic or artistic activities without income.
Must be conducting specialized research on Japanese culture or arts.
Must be learning or acquiring skills in Japanese culture or arts (e.g., tea ceremony, flower arrangement, judo) under the guidance of an expert.
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover all living expenses during the stay in Japan, as no remuneration is permitted.
Must not pose a threat to public order, security, or health.
Education
none or higher
Valid passport.
Visa application form.
Photograph (35mm x 45mm).
Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
Documents certifying the activities and duration of stay.
Outline of the organization where the activity will take place.
Proof of academic or professional background related to the activity.
Proof of financial ability to cover all expenses (e.g., bank statements, scholarship certificates).
| Application for Certificate of Eligibility - Cultural Activities | — |
| Application Steps | Arrange tutor/program: Find professional tutor or cultural institution in Japan; Prepare documents: … | mofa.go.jp |
| Dependent Visa | Dependents allowed | mofa.go.jp |
| Fee Breakdown | Application fee: 3000 JPY | mofa.go.jp |
| Fees | JPY 3000 | mofa.go.jp |
| Forms | Application for Certificate of Eligibility - Cultural Activities | mofa.go.jp |
| Included Nationalities | — | mofa.go.jp |
| Job Offer Required | false | mofa.go.jp |
| Application Portal | https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/procedures/16-1.html | moj.go.jp |
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