Relocation to Japan

Would you like to move to Japan?

Moving to JapanPrepare in advance to ensure the process goes smoothly.
One of the easiest ways to emigrate is to find a job before you arrive. If you arrive on a tourist visa and find a job, you will need to leave so that your employer can apply for a visa.
Many people are attracted by the high salaries and quality of life in Japan. However, a high standard also means a high cost of living for foreigners. But there are also advantages: excellent medicine, schools, good food.
It makes sense to socialize with foreigners - you can make friends and learn new things. Attend online and offline events for expatriates.
It is not difficult to bring things to Japan. It is advisable to make detailed lists in English and Japanese in advance. With a 6-month proof of ownership, you can import goods duty-free.
Pets can also be imported. However, a 7-day quarantine applies to cats and dogs. This can be extended if you are unable to present all documents.
You will need the standard vaccinations as well as a vaccination against Japanese encephalitis caused by mosquito bites. Although the disease is more common in rural areas, it is worth vaccinating those who travel a lot.

Knowing the Japanese language can help you immerse yourself in the country. It is worth attending a language course or practicing on your own to learn the basics of communication.
For some visas (e.g. work visas), proof of a certain language level may be required. These are measured by standardized tests and certificates.
The most renowned test is the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test). There is also the EJU, an exam for admission to Japanese universities. Language schools can conduct their own entrance exams.
However, it is not only the exam results that are important. Practical skills, fluency and cultural understanding are also indicators of level.
Therefore, it is important not only to prepare for the exams, but also to practice as much as possible in communication and daily use of the language.

To obtain a residence permit, you must apply for a long-term visa at the Japanese embassy/consulate. This entitles you to permanent residence.

There are 3 types of work visas:

• Standard - for employment in Japan
• For highly qualified professionals
• Temporary work visa for young people

To work permanently in Japan, you need the appropriate visa and a certificate from the Immigration Office for the employer. Family members are also allowed to enter with a work visa.

With a family visa, you can live with a Japanese relative for up to 3 years (renewable). You can work if you are married to a Japanese citizen. Requirements for the application:

• Marriage to a Japanese citizen;
• a relative is a Japanese citizen;
• a family member of a foreign worker in Japan.

To obtain a visa, the relative must apply in advance for a certificate of eligibility confirming relationship and financial ability. It is easier to apply for a visa at a Japanese consulate.

Student visa - for long-term study. The duration - from a few months to 2 years. You can work up to 18 hours per week.

If you enter Japan for more than 3 months, you will be issued a residence permit, which is the most important document in Japan. You must have it with you at all times.

A five-year stay in Japan is required to obtain a permanent residence permit. However, this period may vary depending on the status of your current residence permit.
Marriage to a Japanese citizen shortens the residence permit period to one year. If you enter with a highly skilled worker visa, the period for obtaining permanent residence can be one to three years. Citizenship can be acquired by birth, registration or naturalization.
It is important to note that Japan follows the principle of single citizenship, which excludes the possibility of dual citizenship for its citizens. In the case of dual citizenship, one of the two citizenships must be renounced in order to retain the other.

Advantages:

• High standard of living and developed infrastructure
• Security and low crime rate
• Modern health and social security system
• Rich traditional culture and cuisine
• Career opportunities in a developed economy
• Breathtaking nature and climatic diversity
• Good opportunities for children's education and development

Disadvantages:

• High cost of living, especially in the big cities
• Complicated and lengthy bureaucratic process for obtaining a residence permit
• Language barrier and complex writing system
• Closed society and difficult adaptation for foreigners
• High competition in the education and labor market
• Frequent natural disasters due to geographical location (typhoons, tsunamis, earthquakes)
• Long working hours and workaholism

Obtaining a permanent residence permit in Japan is a time-consuming and laborious process, but it can be done. Much depends on the purpose of the foreigner's entry and their personal situation.

If you are working as an employee or running a business, opening cultural projects or even marrying a Japanese citizen, you may initially be granted a temporary residence permit, with the right to apply for a permanent residence permit later. It is worth considering the specifics of Japanese immigration law.

If you are prepared to consistently fulfill all formal requirements and to be flexible and patient with the slow bureaucratic system, permanent residence in Japan is perfectly feasible. The main thing is the desire to immerse yourself in the country's unique atmosphere.