Japanese Visas consist of two types, the seal type and the stamp type. The seal type Japanese visa displays a visa seal inside a passport and is usually issued to overseas Japanese embassies such as Korea, Thailand and the Philippines. These countries release a large number of visas. The stamp type shows a visa stamp that is marked in the passport which is given out to other Japanese embassies.

Aside from these two types, there are also seven categories which uses the status of residence as basis as to what type of visa will be issued. The seven categories include: Diplomatic visa, Official visa, Working visa, Temporary Visitor’s visa, Transit visa, General visa and Specified visa. Of these seven visa categories, the Temporary Visitor’s visa, Transit visa and General visa does not allow the person being issued visa to the permit to work.

Diplomatic Visa – Foreigners with diplomatic visas are in accordance to the treaties and agreements between the two countries. This covers everyone in the diplomatic corps.

Official Visa – Granted to government officials with official business with the government of Japan.

Working Visa – these are divided in several categories, depending on skill and profession which will determine the status of residency (anywhere from 1 year to 3 years). If a foreigner changes jobs while in Japan, the status of his residency must also be changed in accordance to what his current line of profession is.

Student Visa – for students wishing to study in Japan (Japanese Language Students not included here). They are not allowed to engage in any business activities.

Spouse Visa – Valid from 1 to 3 years (until renewal), for foreign nationals with Japanese spouses.

Permanent Residence Visa – for foreigners who have been residents of Japan for at least 5 years.

Alien Registration – Foreigners staying in Japan for 90 days or more have to acquire an alien registration card. This card is required for instance, in opening a bank account, and must be carried all the time.

Reentry Permit – Required when a visa holder is temporarily leaving Japan during the duration of his/her residence.

Naturalization – Foreigners staying in Japan for at least 5 years or more may apply for naturalization but must convert to one nationality only, as Japan does not allow for dual citizenship.