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For Tokyo
Your situation
EmployeeUsually 'Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services', sponsored by your employer. 6 steps Highly skilled professionalA points-based status with a fast track to permanent residence. 4 steps Student'Student' status for a university or a recognised Japanese-language school. 4 steps Remote workerThe six-month digital nomad status, for high earners from eligible countries. 3 steps Founder'Business Manager' status, tightened in October 2025. 4 steps Open a step on the roadmap to see what it involves. Rules change
Almost every route starts with a Certificate of Eligibility applied for in Japan by your sponsor, then a visa from the embassy. Residence fees were raised in April 2025 and further increases have been proposed, so check the current schedule before you budget. This is a general guide, not legal advice. Confirm each step with the Immigration Services Agency of Japan before you rely on it.
Your roadmap · Employee 6 steps 4–6 months before → to Year 1 onwards 1 Step 1: Secure an offer4–6 months before + From a Japanese employer, in a role that matches your degree or ten years' experience (three for some language and cultural roles). The status of residence is decided by the job, so check which one applies. 2 Step 2: Employer applies for the Certificate of Eligibility3–4 months before + Filed at the regional immigration bureau, or online, with your degree, CV, contract and company documents. Allow one to three months. The certificate can now be issued by email. 3 Step 3: Get the visa4–6 weeks before + Take the Certificate of Eligibility and your passport to the Japanese embassy or consulate. It usually takes about a week. Enter within three months of the certificate's issue. 4 Step 4: Collect your residence card on landingDay 0 + At Narita, Haneda, Kansai and the other main airports the card is issued at immigration. Elsewhere it is posted once you register an address. 5 Step 5: Register your addressWithin 14 days + At the ward or city office within 14 days of moving in. You join the resident register, receive your My Number, and enrol in health insurance and the pension if your employer does not cover you. 6 Step 6: Extend before the card expiresYear 1 onwards + Periods of one, three or five years are granted. Apply up to three months before expiry. Permanent residence normally needs ten years, with shorter routes for highly skilled professionals. Get help with the move to Tokyo → Chat with Eva