Important Considerations When Renewing Your Working VisaNew!!
For those holding a working visa (Status of Residence) such as "Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services," applying for an Extension of Period of Stay is an unavoidable step to continue working in Japan.You might think, "I'm working hard at my current company, so I'll be fine." However, during the renewal screening, your entire past residency […]
Guidelines for Writing a Will: Necessity and Types Explained
A will is more than just a legal document; it is a letter written to protect your beloved family from inheritance disputes. For those wondering if they need one, here is a summary to help you decide. Cases Where a Will is EssentialA will is crucial if you are a childless couple, have children from […]
Changes to the Required Documents for Naturalization Applications
While numerous documents are required for a naturalization application, some of these requirements have been updated as of April 1, 2026.The specific changes are as follows: Particular attention should be paid to the "Documents proving that residence tax is being paid on time."In the past, it was sufficient to simply have no unpaid or delinquent taxes. […]
Key Points for Hiring Foreign Nationals for Interpretation and Translation Roles
Many companies, such as those in the hospitality industry, employ foreign nationals for front-desk operations and similar roles. On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, the Japanese government released updated guidelines regarding the "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services" status of residence. Specifically, these updates clarify the requirements for "interpersonal duties involving linguistic skills, such as translation and interpretation."The […]
New Required Documents for "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services" Visa Applications
For applications submitted on or after Wednesday, April 15, 2026, organizations falling under Category 3 or 4 are now required to submit the following additional documents: Regarding Japanese language proficiency, applicants will be deemed to possess proficiency equivalent to CEFR B2 if they meet any of the following criteria:
Launch of the "Specified Residence Card" System Starting June 14, 2026
Based on the "Act to Partially Amend the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act," which was promulgated on June 21, 2024, the new "Specified Residence Card" (Tokutei Zairyu Card) system will officially begin on June 14, 2026.This Specified Residence Card integrates the My Number Card with the Residence Card. Previously, after renewing a period of […]
Residency Requirement for Naturalization Revised from 5 to 10 Years
Previously, one of the key requirements for naturalization was the residency requirement of "having resided in Japan continuously for at least five years." In other words, if an applicant had lived in Japan for five consecutive years and met other necessary criteria, they were eligible to apply for Japanese citizenship.In contrast, applying for Permanent Residency […]
What to Do After Renewing Your Residence Card
Foreign residents living in Japan hold a Residence Card (Zairyu Card), which has an expiration date (with the exception of Special Permanent Residents). To continue staying in Japan beyond this date, you must apply for and receive an "Extension of Period of Stay." Once your extension is successfully granted and you receive your new Residence Card, […]
To Companies Employing Foreign Nationals
Companies that employ full-time employees are legally obligated to enroll in labor and social insurance.However, some companies remain un-enrolled despite having this legal obligation. In the past, even if a company employing a foreign national was not enrolled in these insurance programs, the employee's application for an extension of period of stay was sometimes granted. […]
New Documentation Requirements for "Intra-company Transferee" Status
Starting April 1, 2026, individuals residing in Japan under the "Intra-company Transferee" status will be required to submit the following additional documents: Previously, immigration authorities occasionally requested photographs or other materials regarding the overseas office. However, moving forward, it is mandatory to present documents confirming the physical and operational existence of both the office prior to the transfer and the office in […]