VisaJapan

Status of Residence · 技術・人文知識・国際業務

Documents for a Japan Work Visa

A practical checklist of the documents you and your employer need for a Japan work visa — from your degree certificate to the company's financial records.

LAST UPDATED · 2026-06-121 MIN READSOURCE · IMMIGRATION SERVICES AGENCY

The paperwork splits in two: what you provide, and what your employer provides. Get both halves ready before filing the Certificate of Eligibility.

What you provide

  • A valid passport and a recent photo (4cm × 3cm)
  • Your degree certificate (and sometimes transcripts)
  • An updated CV showing relevant experience
  • For some roles, professional certifications or a portfolio

What your employer provides

  • The signed employment contract or offer letter
  • Company registration () and a recent financial statement
  • A breakdown of your duties and how they match your background
  • The company's most recent tax withholding record

Documents in a language other than Japanese or English usually need a Japanese translation. Keep originals — immigration may ask to see them.

A note on timing

Degree certificates from overseas can take weeks to obtain. Request yours early — it is the item most likely to delay an otherwise ready application.