Transitioning from an e-visa to a long-term visa in Japan is a crucial step for individuals planning to extend their stay beyond the typical 90 days allowed under the e-visa program. Whether you are moving to Japan for work, study, family reunification, or other long-term purposes, navigating the visa process can seem complex.

This guide offers a clear road map covering the actions you will need to undertake, the required paperwork, and what to expect on the journey. From getting a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to finishing your visa application and getting to Japan, this article will help guarantee a seamless arrival to your new life in Japan.

Understanding Japan Visa Categories

Japan’s visa system is divided into short-term and long-term categories, each designed for specific purposes. The Japan e-Visa is typically valid for stays of up to 90 days and is suitable for:

1. Tourism: For travellers exploring Japan’s attractions.
2. Visiting Family: For brief stays with relatives.
3. Attending Conferences: For those visiting Japan for academic, business, or professional events.

If your stay extends beyond 90 days or requires work or study, you will need to transition to a long-term visa, which includes the following categories:

1. Work Visas: For skilled professionals (e.g., engineers, IT specialists, educators) with job offers in Japan.
2. Student Visa: Anyone planning to attend school in Japan can apply for a student visa.
3. Family Reunification Visa: For spouses or children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents.
4. Business/Investment Visa: For entrepreneurs and investors planning to establish businesses in Japan.

Eligibility Requirements for Transitioning

Before switching from an e-Visa to a long-term visa in Japan, you must meet the qualifying requirements. Japanese immigration restrictions are rigorous, and applicants must meet visa category requirements.

Clear Purpose for Visa Application

Clearly define the reason for your stay, whether for employment, study, family reunification, or business, ensuring it aligns with the visa category you apply for.

Visa-Specific Eligibility Criteria

1. Work Visas: Requires a valid job offer from a Japanese employer, proof of qualifications, and a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the employer.
2. Student Visas: Requires proof of enrollment at an accredited institution and evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover expenses.
3. Family Reunification Visas: Requires proof of the relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates) and evidence of financial support from the sponsor in Japan.
4. Financial Stability: Bank statements, salary records, or tax returns can all attest to an applicant's capacity to sustain themselves or their sponsor's ability to do so.
5. Compliance with Immigration Laws: Ensure compliance with Japanese immigration regulations during your stay, as violations (e.g., overstaying) can affect future visa applications.
6. Document Translation: All documents must be in Japanese or English. Non-Japanese documents should be professionally translated to meet immigration requirements.

Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

1. Mandatory Document: You must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility before applying for a long-term Japan visa (e.g., work, student, or marriage visa).
2. Issued by Authorities: The certificate is issued by Japan's Immigration Services, confirming your eligibility for a visa.
3. Sponsor Requirement: To obtain the certificate, you need a sponsor or proxy in Japan to handle the application on your behalf.

Certificate of Eligibility: Application Process

Sponsor Submission

The COE application must be submitted by a sponsor in Japan, such as an employer, educational institution, or family member, to the Immigration Bureau. The sponsor is responsible for ensuring all necessary documentation is provided.

Required Documents

The documents necessary for the COE application are contingent upon the type of visa, but they typically consist of:

FROM THE APPLICANT’S SIDE	FROM THE SPONSOR’S SIDE
Copies of passport, recent photographs, and personal information.	Work Visa: Employment contract. Student Visa: Admission letter from the Japanese educational institution. Family Visa: Letter of guarantee, proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates). Financial Statements: Documentation from the sponsor showing their financial ability to support your stay.

Processing Time

The processing period for the COE normally runs between one and three months, depending on the Immigration Bureau's workload and the intricacy of the case.

Applying for a Long-Term Visa

After receiving the Certificate of Eligibility (COE), the next step is to formally apply for a long-term visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country. This step is essential to complete the transition to a long-term stay in Japan.

Required Documents

1. Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Japan to apply for a long-term visa.
2. Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form, which can be accessed online or obtained at the consulate.
3. Passport-Size Photo: Provide a recent photograph that meets Japan's visa specifications.
4. Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Submit both the original COE and a copy.
5. Additional Documents (depending on the visa type):
   • Proof of Financial Support: Financial proof such as bank statements, scholarship letters, or a financial guarantee will be required.
   • Proof of Relationship: For family-related visas, submit marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other relevant documents.

Procedure

Step 1: Submit the Documents: Bring all required documents to the embassy or consulate.

Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee: The visa fee varies depending on the location of the consulate or embassy.

Step 3: Processing Time: The typical processing time is between 5 to 10 business days, although this can vary depending on the consulate's workload.

Fees for Long-Term Visa Application

Application fees vary by nationality and visa type. They usually rely on visa category and number of entries (single or multiple). Check the relevant Japanese embassy or consulate for the most current fee information for your visa type.

Validity of Long-Term Visas

The validity of a long-term visa in Japan depends on the type of visa issued and the specific circumstances surrounding your application. Below are key points regarding visa validity:

Visa Validity Period	Work and Business Visas: These visas are typically issued for periods of 1 to 5 years, depending on the nature of the employment or business activity. Student Visas: Generally issued for the duration of your academic program, typically ranging from 6 months to 4 years. Family Reunification Visas: These visas are typically valid for 1 to 3 years and may be extended based on the ongoing relationship with the sponsor.
Re-entry and Multiple Entries	Single-entry visas allow you to enter Japan only once, while multiple-entry visas allow you to re-enter Japan during the visa’s validity period without needing a new visa. If you leave Japan on a single-entry visa, you must apply for a new visa to re-enter.
Extension of Stay	Extension applications for long-term visas (e.g., work, study, or family) can be made before the visa expires. Extensions are generally granted based on continued compliance with visa conditions (e.g., ongoing employment, education, or family status).
Permanent Residency	In some cases, long-term residents may apply for permanent residency after living in Japan for a specified period, typically 10 years (or less for those married to a Japanese national or permanent resident). Permanent residency provides indefinite stay rights and eliminates the need for regular visa renewals.

Arrival in Japan and Next Steps

Upon arrival in Japan with your long-term visa, there are several important steps to complete to ensure your legal status and compliance with local regulations.

1. Residence Card Issuance: Upon arrival, immigration officers at the airport will issue you a Residence Card (Zairyu Card). This card is required to be carried at all times and functions as evidence of your legal status in Japan.
2. Resident Registration: Within 14 days of securing accommodation, you must register your address at the local municipal office. This is a mandatory step for all long-term residents of Japan. The registration process involves filling out forms and submitting your Residence Card.
3. Health Insurance Enrolment: It is mandatory for all long-term residents to enrol in the National Health Insurance (NHI) system. This health insurance covers a significant portion of medical expenses and is essential for accessing healthcare services in Japan. You must register for NHI at your local municipal office as part of your residency registration process.

Tips for a Successful Long-Term Visa Application

To ensure a smooth long-term visa application process for Japan, follow these essential tips:

1. Understand Visa Requirements: Carefully review the requirements for your visa type, whether for work, study, or family, and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
2. Complete and Accurate Documentation: Make sure all documents are accurate and complete. Missing or inaccurate information delays or rejects your application, potentially causing significant setbacks in processing and necessitating reapplication.
3. Show Financial Stability: Provide evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself or show proof of sponsorship to cover living and other expenses in Japan.
4. Verify Document Validity: Ensure that documents such as your passport and certificates are valid and meet Japanese immigration standards, with translations where necessary.
5. Be Honest: Provide truthful and transparent information in your application to avoid complications or rejection.
6. Plan Ahead: Send in your application rather well ahead to account for processing times, especially for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
7. Track Visa Expiration: Keep track of your visa’s expiration and apply for extensions or adjustments before it expires.
8. Seek Professional Help if Needed: If unsure, consult an immigration expert or consultant to ensure your application is correctly prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the risks of overstaying my e-Visa while waiting for a long-term visa? Can I reuse documents from my e-Visa application for my long-term visa? Are interviews part of the long-term visa application process? How do I coordinate my long-term visa and work permit applications? Do I need to show language proficiency for certain long-term visas? Are there any travel restrictions within Japan after transitioning to a long-term visa?

Content Disclaimer: Even though this information was last refreshed in January 2025, we suggest checking with the relevant agencies, embassies, and airlines to guarantee total precision concerning your travel arrangements.