Moving to Japan
Step-by-step Immigration Guide

Japan, situated in the northwest Pacific Ocean, is a captivating jewel of East Asia known for its strong economy, rapid development, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its iconic cherry blossoms and a commitment to high living standards, Japan offers an unforgettable experience for those considering relocation. Residency in Japan brings numerous benefits, including an excellent quality of life, a safe and clean environment, and access to one of the world's top healthcare systems. Japan consistently ranks high across various aspects of life, making it a preferred destination for expatriates worldwide.

Whether a visa is required depends on your purpose of travel and your country of origin. Travelers visiting Japan for tourism or business, with a stay not exceeding three months, may not need a visa, depending on their nationality. However, for permanent relocation, a long-term stay visa must be obtained from Japanese diplomatic missions (embassy/consulate) in your home country.

Do US Citizens Need a Visa to Move to Japan?

US citizens can enter Japan without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. If planning to stay longer, a long-stay visa must be obtained from the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in the US before travel.

Expatriates interested in making Japan their long-term home can do so for various reasons, provided they apply for an appropriate long-stay visa. Long-term stay visas in Japan are categorized based on the purpose of stay, and obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility is typically the first step. Upon entering Japan with a visa, travelers receive a Landing Permit at the port of entry, which replaces the visa and allows legal residence in Japan.

For those seeking employment in Japan, obtaining a work visa is essential. Japan offers several types of work visas, including the regular Work Visa, Highly Skilled Professional Visa, and Working Holiday Visa. Employers in Japan must secure a Certificate of Eligibility from Japanese immigration authorities before expatriates apply for a Work Visa in their home country. Work visas grant the right to bring family members to Japan.

Family members of Japanese citizens or foreign residents in Japan can join their loved ones through a family visa. Eligibility includes being married to a Japanese national, being a dependent child of a Japanese national, or being the spouse or dependent child of a foreigner residing in Japan. The family member in Japan is responsible for initiating the application for a Certificate of Eligibility, allowing the issuance of a spouse visa. This visa can be extended for up to three years and permits employment for spouses of Japanese citizens or permanent residents.

Students enrolled in Japanese educational institutions must obtain a student visa for an extended stay. The educational institution should send the Certificate of Eligibility, allowing students to apply for a student visa at the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate in their home country. Student visas are issued for varying durations, up to two years, with the possibility of extension. However, students are typically limited to part-time work, not exceeding 18 hours per week.

Japan offers numerous advantages and some challenges:

Yes, you can bring your pets to Japan, but they must undergo import quarantine inspection. The quarantine period is typically 12 hours if your pets meet the import requirements. These requirements vary based on the country of origin:

For Pets from Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji Islands, Hawai, and Guam:

• Microchip identification (ISO 11784 and 11785 compliant).
• Residency requirements.
• Notification to the Animal Quarantine Service at least 40 days before arrival.
• Pre-arrival clinical inspection by a veterinarian.
• Certificate issued by the government agency of the country of origin.
• Direct transport from home country to Japan.

For Pets from Other Countries:

• Microchip identification before the first rabies vaccination.
• Two or more rabies vaccinations after microchip implant.
• Rabies antibody test.
• Arrival in Japan within 180 days of the rabies antibody test.
• Notification to the Animal Quarantine Service at least 40 days before arrival.
• Pre-arrival clinical inspection by a veterinarian.
• Certificate issued by the government agency of the country of origin.

By adhering to these requirements, you can bring your pets to Japan safely and legally.

Japan offers a diverse range of cities and regions that cater to expats with varying preferences. Here are some of the most popular places for expats to consider when moving to Japan:

Tokyo:

Tokyo is Japan's largest and most populated city, offering a dynamic mix of modern and traditional culture. It's an excellent destination for expats of all ages, boasting a strong job market with numerous opportunities. The city is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, extensive shopping districts, stunning gardens, and vibrant nightlife. Keep in mind that Tokyo can be expensive, with estimated monthly living costs of around €1000 (excluding rent).

Kyoto:

Kyoto offers a more serene and traditional living experience compared to bustling metropolises. Known for its rich cultural heritage, the city is home to Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, palaces, beautiful gardens, and exquisite cuisine. It's a safe and welcoming city with a lower cost of living compared to major urban centers. Maintaining a similar lifestyle in Kyoto can be significantly more affordable than in Tokyo, requiring around €3000.

Yokohama:

Located south of Tokyo, Yokohama is Japan's second-most populous municipality. It offers a humid subtropical climate, making it a pleasant place to live. The city features parks, traditional Japanese gardens, museums, excellent shopping, and dining options. Yokohama is known for its healthcare system, work-life balance, and is favored by retired expats seeking a peaceful environment.

Osaka:

Osaka is a bustling city with a relatively high cost of living. It's recognized for its port, business opportunities, and healthcare services. While it's an expensive destination, Osaka offers a quieter and safer lifestyle compared to some other major cities. It's also famous for its delectable cuisine, making it a fantastic place for food enthusiasts.

Sapporo:

As the capital of Hokkaido, Sapporo offers a unique experience for expats who enjoy mountainous landscapes, skiing, and a love for beer. This city is a popular tourist destination, known for its culinary delights, natural beauty, shopping centers, and vibrant nightlife. The cost of living in Sapporo is generally more affordable than in larger cities like Tokyo, with an average monthly cost of around €1000. It's a safe, foreigner-friendly city with efficient healthcare services.

To bring your household belongings to Japan, you can use sea or air freight while following the "customs clearance for traveler's baggage" procedure. It is crucial to declare these items to the Director-General of Customs and secure an import permit. Required documents include:

• Invoice.
• Bill of lading or Air Waybill.
• Certificate of origin (where a WTO rate applies).
• Generalized System of Preferences and certificates of origin (Form A).
• Packing lists, insurance certificates, and other relevant documents.
• Licenses, certificates, or other documents as per local laws and regulations.
• Detailed statement on customs duty reductions or exemptions.
• Customs duty payment receipts.

If you're moving permanently to Japan, you can import your household items without paying customs duty, provided you do so within six months of your arrival. Unaccompanied items require the submission of two copies of the Declaration of Accompanied Articles and Unaccompanied Articles to customs upon entry.

Prohibited Items:

Certain items are not allowed to enter Japan, including narcotics, firearms, explosives, materials that may harm public safety or morals, and counterfeit or forged items.

Becoming a permanent resident of Japan requires residing in the country for at least five consecutive years, although the required duration may vary based on the type of residency status held. For example, marriage to a Japanese citizen reduces the requirement to one year, while holders of highly skilled professional visas may become permanent residents after one to three years. Dual citizenship is not permitted in Japan, and individuals must renounce one citizenship if holding citizenship in another country. Japanese citizenship can be acquired through birth, notification, or naturalization.

Japan does not permit its citizens to hold dual citizenship. Consequently, individuals cannot simultaneously possess citizenship in Japan and another country. In cases of dual citizenship, you are required to choose one citizenship to retain, while renouncing the other.
Japanese citizenship can be obtained through one of the following methods:

1. By Birth: Individuals born to Japanese citizens are automatically granted Japanese citizenship.
2. Notification: This method applies to individuals who meet specific criteria, such as being born to Japanese parents in a foreign country. They can acquire Japanese citizenship through a notification process.
3. Naturalization: Foreign nationals who have resided in Japan for an extended period, typically five years or more, and meet other eligibility requirements, can apply for Japanese citizenship through the naturalization process.

These pathways lead to obtaining Japanese citizenship, but it's crucial to adhere to Japan's strict policy against dual citizenship.