Working in Japan is a dream for many Indian professionals — thanks to the country’s high-demand job market in tech, engineering, healthcare, hospitality, teaching, research, and more. But before you can pack your bags, you’ll need to understand Japan’s work visa process, eligibility rules, required documents, fees, timeline and more.
A work visa is a long-term visa that allows Indian citizens to live and work in Japan legally based on a job offer from a Japanese employer.
This visa is not simply a tourist visa — it is specifically issued for employment purposes and requires approval from Japanese immigration authorities. The length of stay generally ranges from 1 to 5 years and can usually be extended.
Before you apply, you must meet certain key eligibility criteria:
You must have a job offer from a registered Japanese employer. The employer acts as your sponsor, applying to Japanese immigration authorities for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on your behalf.
This is the most critical document. Without a CoE, the visa application won’t be processed. The employer in Japan applies for this with the Immigration Services Agency and sends the approved CoE to you.
Most work visas require a university degree and/or relevant professional experience. Some visa categories (like engineering, IT or specialist roles) strictly expect a bachelor’s or higher.
Applicants with serious criminal history are less likely to get a visa. Japan places a strong emphasis on character and compliance.
While not always mandatory, you may need to show you can support yourself initially via bank statements, payslips, and tax returns.
There is no hard Japanese language requirement for most work visas, but proficiency (JLPT N4 or above) or English skills can significantly improve job chances.
Here’s a typical document list you must prepare before applying (exact paperwork may vary with visa type):
✔️ Valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
✔️ Completed visa application form
✔️ Passport-size photos meeting specifications
✔️ Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) issued by Japan
✔️ Job offer letter or contract from Japanese employer
✔️ Academic certificates (degree, mark sheets)
✔️ CV / resume (with work history)
✔️ Employer’s support documents (company registration, guarantee letter)
✔️ Bank statements or financial proof
✔️ Income Tax Returns (last 3 years)
✔️ Proof of accommodation in Japan
✔️ Health insurance details
✔️ Resume in Japanese/English (optional)
💡 Note: The Certificate of Eligibility is required before you submit your visa application. Without it, the embassy won’t accept your application.
Here’s a simple roadmap to follow:
Search for jobs in Japan (remote job boards, recruiters, LinkedIn) and secure an offer. The employer becomes your sponsor.
Your employer applies to the Japanese immigration office for your Certificate of Eligibility. This can take about 2–4 months.
Once you receive your CoE, submit your visa application form and supporting documents to the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in India (e.g., New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru).
Pay the visa fees and attend a short interview if requested.
If approved, your passport will receive a work visa stamp allowing entry to Japan.
✔️ Visa Fee (single entry): Approximately ¥3,000 (~₹2,000–₹3,000)
✔️ Visa Fee (multiple entry): Approximately ¥6,000 (~₹4,000–₹6,000)
(Fees may change over time.)
✔️ Visa Validity: Usually 1–5 years depending on your employment contract and type of visa.
Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): ~2–4 months
Visa Processing (after CoE): ~5–10 working days
(Times may vary by consulate workload and documentation accuracy.)
Japan doesn’t have a single “work visa.” Instead, there are multiple categories based on job role, skill level, and industry.
Common categories include:
Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services – IT, engineering, business
Skilled Labour – chefs, craft specialists
Intra-company Transferee
Technical Intern/Special Skills – specified industries like care work, manufacturing
🤔 Which one you apply for depends on your job profile and contract.
🚫 Applying without a CoE
🚫 Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
🚫 Poorly scanned photos and incorrect photo sizes
🚫 Misunderstanding job category
🚫 Not allowing enough time for CoE processing
Once your visa is stamped and you land in Japan:
✔️ Obtain your Residence Card
✔️ Register your address at the local city hall
✔️ Open a bank account
✔️ Get enrolled in health insurance and pension
✔️ Follow Japanese work and tax rules
Getting a Japan work visa as an Indian citizen is a multi-step process but absolutely achievable if you follow the rules carefully:
✔️ Secure a job offer
✔️ Get your Certificate of Eligibility
✔️ Submit a complete visa application
✔️ Pay attention to every document detail
Japan offers excellent career opportunities — whether you’re in tech, engineering, hospitality, research, teaching, or other skilled professions. With the right preparation and patience, your Japanese work adventure can begin! 🇯🇵✈️
