Japan•AsiaEngineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa
At a Glance
Processing Time
30-90 days
Application Fee
3,000 JPY
Stay Duration
Up to 5 years
Renewable
Varies
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Allowed
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Work visa for skilled professionals in engineering, IT, humanities, and international services. Requires bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience. Most common employment visa category.
The Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa is Japan's primary employment visa for skilled foreign professionals. It covers three main categories: engineering and IT professionals, professionals in humanities and international services, and cultural/linguistic specialists. Approximately 86% of international students transitioning to work visa status obtain this visa.
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Requirements
Personal
Education
Bachelor or higher
Professional
Experience
0+ years
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport
With at least 6 months validity
Passport photos
Recent photos
Employment contract
Job offer letter detailing position, duration, salary
Certificate of Eligibility
Issued by Immigration Services Agency
Educational credentials
University diploma and transcripts
Work experience documents
Resume, reference letters, employment certificates
Health certificate
Optional
OptionalSponsor Documents
Company registration
Certificate of business registration
Financial statements
Recent balance sheets and profit/loss statements
Employment contract copy
Signed offer letter
Job description
Detailed scope of work and responsibilities
Organizational chart
Structure showing applicant's position
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Advantages
- Most common work visa with wide eligibility
- Allows spouse and children to obtain dependent visas
- Can lead to permanent residency
- No government quota or lottery system
- Recognized professional pathway
Considerations
- Requires bachelor's degree or 10 years work experience
- Must have confirmed job offer
- Employer-dependent status
- Minimum salary requirement
- Processing takes 1-3 months
Application Process
Secure job offer
Receive employment contract from Japanese employer
Employer applies for COE
Company submits Certificate of Eligibility application
Receive COE
Immigration Services Agency issues COE
Apply for visa
Submit visa application at Japanese embassy with COE and employment contract
Pay visa fee
Pay 3,000 JPY for single-entry visa
Receive visa
Visa stamped in passport
Application Forms
Application for Certificate of Eligibility
Ready to Apply?
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