Essential requirements to go to Japan: visa, language, accommodation and more

Traveling to Japan or ordering a longer stay there (study, work, or life) is an exciting adventure… But it also requires planning. Know in advance the Requirements to go to Japan It will allow you to enjoy the experience without last-minute surprises. In this article, we’ll go over what you need, from visa to language, accommodation, and other key formalities.

For a sightseeing visit, many countries have a visa waiver agreement with Japan. According to the Japan Guide website, “if you are a citizen of one of the more than 50 countries with an exemption arrangement, you only need a valid passport to enter as a ‘temporary visitor’ for up to 90 days.” If you are not in that agreement, you will have to apply for a visa before traveling. In addition to a passport, a round-trip ticket, means of subsistence or accommodation, address of stay, etc. are usually requested.

How long you can stay depends on status: for tourism usually up to 90 days, without the right to work. If you are going to study, work or reside, you need a suitable residency status. Before you travel, clearly define whether it’s “normal” tourism or a longer project.

As we indicated, if your country has an exemption, enter without a visa for a short tourism. If not, it must be processed. It is essential to see that you cannot legally work under this status.

If your plan is to learn at a Japanese language school, university, or technical institute, you will need a student visa. The official Study in Japan website indicates that “foreigners who wish to study in Japan must first obtain a visa and a residence status determined according to their planned activity.” In addition, it is advisable to prepare for certain requirements that demonstrate economic solvency, letter of acceptance, etc.

To work or make a career in Japan, you need an appropriate visa (engineers, humanities specialists, international activities, etc.). The official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan lists numerous states of residence for paid jobs.

There are other types: cultural training, unpaid activities, shop assistants, business managers… Always check the exact type that corresponds to your situation.

If you are planning to travel or relocate to Japan, here is a summary of the most relevant requirements for your application:

• Most Spanish-speaking countries do not require a tourist visa to visit Japan for up to a maximum of 90 days. Countries such as Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela could require. Always check the information at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.
• You must have a valid passport. It is recommended that it be valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry.
  
• Upon arrival, it is necessary to comply with the usual immigration controls and respect the permitted length of stay.

• If your plan is to study, work or reside in Japan beyond a tourist stay, you will need to apply for the corresponding visa (student, work, etc.).

• There is the possibility of applying for a “Working Holiday” program for young people under 30 years of age from Argentina, Spain and Chile who want to work and travel for up to a year in Japan. This type of visa has additional requirements such as age range, own funds for the initial stay, valid passport, among others.

• The procedure is initiated at the Embassy of Japan in your country. There you receive applications for different types of visas, you can check the specific requirements for each category and you can submit the necessary forms.
  
• For long-stay visas (study, work), documents such as a letter of admission from a Japanese institution, employment contract or sponsor, proof of economic solvency, itinerary, among others, must be submitted.

Although basic Japanese or even without knowing anything can be enough for tourism, certifications such as the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) are required to study or work. Having knowledge of Japanese demonstrates integration skills and increases your options.

At Doki Doki Japan we offer courses that allow you to acquire vocabulary, useful expressions, understand cultural etiquette and prepare you for everyday life in Japan. Learning earlier gives you confidence when you land. Whether you want to go as a tourist or apply to school or jobs in Japan.

The cost of living varies greatly depending on the city and lifestyle. According to Numbeo, Japan shows high average expenditures for housing, transportation, and food. For example, in Tokyo, rents and services are usually higher than in other cities.

For student or work visas it is often asked to prove that you have sufficient funds for your stay without relying on external aid. For example, student visa guides indicate these requirements as part of the application. A good practice: prepare bank statements, certificate of funds or sponsor, estimated budget and clear plan.

Finding accommodation in Japan can be complex: there are requirements such as guarantor, “key money” (initial gratuity), contracts in Japanese. Ideally, you should contact agencies that cater to foreigners or student accommodation. In cost analysis, it is indicated that monthly rent can vary quite a bit, depending on the city.

If you’re staying longer than three months, you must register with National Health Insurance or the employee insurance system. It is also mandatory to register your residence at the corresponding town hall, and to obtain the “Residence Card” if applicable.

• Plan ahead: visa fees, processing times, accommodation.
• Make a realistic budget: city (Tokyo vs smaller cities), rent, transportation, food.
• Take advantage of the fact that you are already studying Japanese with us to familiarize yourself with culture, etiquette and everyday language.
  
• Have a backup plan: in case of change of plans, visa, renewal, so that you know your options.
• Check official sources (Japanese embassy in your country, consulates) for changes in regulations, as they may vary.

At Doki Doki Japan we are committed to making your time in Japan unforgettable and smooth. We offer you:

• Personalized advice on requirements to go to Japan: visa, language, accommodation.

• Practical Japanese courses for travelling, studying or working.

• Support in finding housing, understanding paperwork, and adjusting to Japanese life.