The 2025 Guide to Work, Student & Dependent Visas in Japan
Everything International Job Seekers Need to Know — and How JAAFFORCE Can Help
Introduction
Japan’s demand for skilled talent continues to rise, yet the rules surrounding immigration and employment can feel like a maze. This in‑depth guide breaks down the three visa types most relevant to international candidates—Work, Student, and Dependent/Family—and explains how JAAFFORCE supports each stage of your journey.
1. Work Visas (在留資格：就労)
| Main Categories | Typical Job Fields | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services | IT, engineering, translation, marketing | Degree or 10 yrs experience in relevant field |
| Specified Skilled Worker (i & ii) | Agriculture, caregiving, shipbuilding, F&B, etc. | Skills test + N4 (i) or N3 (ii) Japanese |
| Highly Skilled Professional | R&D, management, advanced tech | “Points‑based” system—get 70 pts for fast‑track PR |
Renewal & Transition Tips
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Renew 90–30 days before expiry; JAAFFORCE provides document checklists.
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After 3 years on a Work Visa, you may qualify for permanent residency or a family visa sponsorship.
2. Student Visas (留学)
Why It Matters: More than 40 % of foreign students in Japan switch to a full‑time job after graduation.
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Weekly work limit: 28 hrs (40 hrs during long breaks).
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Switching to employment: Apply for a “Change of Status” before graduation; an employment offer letter is mandatory.
JAAFFORCE Advantage: We host quarterly career fairs geared toward graduating students and pre‑screen employers willing to sponsor visa changes.
3. Dependent & Family Visas (家族滞在・家族滞在者就労)
Dependents can now work up to 28 hrs/week with a shikakugai katsudō permit.
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Path to full‑time: Transition to a regular Work Visa once you secure a qualifying job offer.
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Common hurdles: Japanese résumé formatting, proof of relationship documents.
JAAFFORCE’s multilingual consultants walk you through the paperwork, interview prep, and employer matching.
4. Frequently Asked Visa Questions
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Can I change from Student to Specified Skilled Worker? — Yes, if your major matches an SSW field and you pass the skills/JLPT tests.
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How long does the Change‑of‑Status process take? — 4–8 weeks on average; JAAFFORCE fast‑tracks employer documentation to cut delays.
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Is remote work outside Japan allowed? — Generally no; Japanese visas expect physical presence.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Understanding visa categories is the first step. Partner with JAAFFORCE for free eligibility checks, document templates, and introductions to visa‑sponsoring employers.
Ready to start? [Register here] and book a 15‑minute visa consultation today.
