Types of Visas & Permits

Visa fees cost about 3,000 yen for a single-entry visa and 6,000 yen for multiple entries. Some countries have visa arrangements with Japan and they can avail of reduced fees or are exempted altogether. 

There are the several types of Japanese Visa and Permits that foreign national must be aware of:

1. Diplomatic Visa – Foreigners with diplomatic visas are in accordance to the treaties and agreements between the two countries. This covers everyone in the diplomatic corps.
2. Official Visa – Granted to government officials with official business with the government of Japan.
3. Working Visa – these are divided in several categories, depending on skill and profession which will determine the status of residency (anywhere from 1 year to 3 years). If a foreigner changes jobs while in Japan, the status of his residency must also be changed in accordance to what his current line of profession is.
4. Student Visa – for students wishing to study in Japan (Japanese Language Students not included here). They are not allowed to engage in any business activities.
5. Spouse Visa – Valid from 1 to 3 years (until renewal), for foreign nationals with Japanese spouses.
6. Permanent Residence Visa – for foreigners who have been residents of Japan for at least 5 years.
7. Alien Registration – Foreigners staying in Japan for 90 days or more have to acquire an alien registration card. This card is required for instance, in opening a bank account, and must be carried all the time.
8. Reentry Permit – Required when a visa holder is temporarily leaving Japan during the duration of his/her residence.
9. Naturalization – Foreigners staying in Japan for at least 5 years or more may apply for naturalization but must convert to one nationality only, as Japan does not allow for dual citizenship.