Japan manages entry and residence through immigration law and administrative procedures. Foreign nationals generally need a legal basis for entering, staying, and carrying out regulated activities. A central concept is status of residence, or zairyū shikaku. Categories are connected to purposes such as employment, study, family relationship, training, or long-term residence. A visa is normally used when seeking permission to travel and request entry. After admission, the granted status of residence controls the person’s activities and period of stay in Japan. Many medium-term and long-term residents receive a residence card called a zairyū kādo. The card is important identification, but the underlying immigration record and status remain legally decisive. Permission to work depends on the residence category and the activity performed. Some statuses broadly allow work, some allow only defined professional activities, and some require separate permission for additional paid activity. Changes in work, school, family circumstances, address, or identity information can create notification or application duties. A major change may also require a different status rather than a simple notice. Common procedures include extending a period of stay, changing status, obtaining permission for additional activity, arranging re-entry, and applying for permanent residence. Approval is not automatic merely because an application was submitted. Immigration decisions can affect employment, housing, family life, and access to services. Early planning, truthful documents, and consistent information are essential because errors can have serious consequences.
Immigration law in Japan
Immigration law in Japan is organized mainly around a person’s status of residence, called zairyū shikaku. This status determines the permitted purpose of stay and may limit work or other activities. A visa used for travel to Japan is related to, but not identical with, residence status after entry.
Tip
Check the exact Japanese and English name of your status of residence before accepting work or changing your main activity in Japan. Keep your passport, residence card, application copies, and official notices together. Contact immigration authorities or a qualified specialist before making a change that may fall outside your current status.