Working in Japan: The Engineer/Humanities/International Services Visa Guide
The Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (EHI) visa is the primary pathway for foreign professionals to build a career in Japan. Whether you are a software developer, a marketing specialist, or a translator, this guide covers everything you need to know.
1. Eligibility Requirements
Before you apply, ensure you meet at least one of the three primary “Qualification Pillars.”
| Pillar | Requirement |
| Education | A Bachelor’s degree or higher. Your major must generally align with your job duties. |
| Experience | 10 years of professional experience (or 3 years for translation/interpretation/language teaching). |
| IT Certification | Specific government-recognized IT certifications (applicable only to IT roles). |
Key Conditions:
Job Offer: You must have a signed contract with a company based in Japan.
Salary Parity: You must earn a salary equal to or greater than a Japanese national in the same position.
Job Nature: The role must require “professional knowledge” (not manual labor).
2. The 5-Step Application Process
The journey from job offer to landing in Japan typically takes 3 to 5 months.
Step 1: Secure a Job & Contract
You cannot apply for this visa independently. You must first secure a job offer and sign an employment contract.
Step 2: Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
This is the most critical stage. Your employer in Japan submits an application to the Japanese Immigration Services Agency on your behalf.
Timeline: 1–3 months.
Outcome: You receive a digital or physical COE.
Step 3: Embassy Visa Application
Once you have your COE, take it to the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
Timeline: 5–10 working days.
Outcome: A visa sticker is placed in your passport.
Step 4: Entry & Residence Card
Upon arrival at a major Japanese airport (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, etc.), present your visa and COE.
Action: An immigration officer will issue your Residence Card (Zairyu Card) immediately.
Step 5: Local Registration
Within 14 days of finding a place to live, visit your local Ward Office (City Hall) to register your address and enroll in the national health insurance system.
3. Required Documents Checklist
Ensure you have high-quality scans and physical copies of the following:
From the Applicant:
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months.
Education: Original Degree/Diploma and full Academic Transcripts.
Proof of Experience: Signed letters from previous employers (if not using a degree).
Photos: Recent digital and physical photos ($4cm \times 3cm$).
From the Employer:
Signed Employment Contract.
The company’s most recent Financial Statements.
Company Registration (Tokyobun).
A “Letter of Reason” explaining the necessity of hiring a foreign professional.
4. Pro-Tips for a Successful Application
The “Matching” Rule: Japan Immigration looks closely at the link between your education and your job. If you have a degree in Fine Arts but are applying for a Java Developer role, prepare for a potential rejection unless you have significant work experience to bridge the gap.
Avoid “Simple Labor”: Ensure your contract does not mention tasks like cleaning, serving food, or cash register operation.
Check Company Health: If you are joining a startup, ensure they have a solid business plan, as Immigration may scrutinize their ability to pay your salary.
Here is our Success
