Japan Visa Types 2027: Which One Fits You?
Explore the main types of Japanese visas in 2027, from tourist and student visas to work, family and permanent residence, the new rules, and how to apply for each one.
Charlotte Whitmore
Last updated
Why Choosing the Right Japanese Visa Matters
Japan attracts millions of visitors, students and workers every year with its safe cities, rich culture, strong economy and growing need for foreign workers. But each purpose of stay needs a different visa, called a “status of residence” in Japan, and each has its own rules. For most long stays, the process starts in Japan: your school or employer first applies for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE), and then you use it to get your visa at the Japanese embassy in your country. Choosing the right status from the start saves time and avoids problems later.
Short Visits: Tourist and Business Visas
Citizens of more than 70 countries and territories can visit Japan without a visa for short stays, usually up to 90 days, for tourism, family visits or business meetings. Other travellers need a short-term visa, and some nationalities can now apply online through Japan’s eVISA system. Since 1 July 2026, the fee for a single-entry visa has risen from 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen. A short-term visa does not allow you to work in Japan.
Studying in Japan
To study at a Japanese university, college or language school, you need the “Student” status of residence. Your school applies for your Certificate of Eligibility, and you then use it to apply for your student visa at the Japanese embassy in your country. You must show that you can pay for your studies and living costs, and you can usually work part-time if you get permission for activities outside your status. Many students later stay to work in Japan after graduating.
Working in Japan
Japan has several work statuses. The most common, “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”, is for office jobs like IT, engineering, business and translation, and usually needs a university degree. The Specified Skilled Worker status is for jobs in sectors with labour shortages, such as caregiving, construction and food service, and from April 2027 a new Employment for Skill Development program will replace the old technical intern training program. Highly skilled professionals who score enough points can also get a status with extra benefits.
Family and Permanent Residence
Spouses of Japanese citizens and of permanent residents can get their own status of residence, and many work visa holders can bring their spouse and children as dependants. For permanent residence, most people need about 10 years of living in Japan, but highly skilled professionals can apply much sooner. Each path has its own rules, so check the details with the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
What Is a Certificate of Eligibility?
It is a document from Japan’s Immigration Services Agency that confirms you meet the conditions for your status. Your school or employer usually applies for it in Japan, and it makes getting your visa much faster.
Do You Need to Speak Japanese?
Not for every visa. Many universities and some companies use English. But Japanese is required for some jobs, like those under the Specified Skilled Worker status, and it helps a lot with daily life.
Can You Change Your Status Inside Japan?
Often yes, for example from student to work status after graduating. You must apply to the Immigration Services Agency before your current status expires.
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