Visa for Short-Term Stay in Japan
A status of residence refers to the permit required for a foreign national to stay in Japan for a short period of time. It applies to temporary entries such as sightseeing or visiting family members, and the decision to grant or deny entry is made by the Japan Immigration Services Agency (immigration officer) at the airport upon arrival.
Specifically, the following situations are eligible, with permitted stays ranging from a minimum of 15 days to a maximum of 90 days.
- Visiting acquaintances, friends, or relatives
- Sightseeing, recreation, or leisure activities
- Staying for medical treatment
- Participating in athletic competitions or contests
- Factory tours, trade fairs, or inspection/observation visits
- Attending lectures, conferences, or briefings at educational institutions or companies
- Short-term business activities such as market research or business negotiations
- Temporary stay for university entrance examinations
※ Please note that employment is strictly prohibited under a Short-Term Stay Visa. You may not engage in any work for remuneration, including part-time jobs, nor may you engage in any activities outside the permitted scope of your status.
This is the status of residence for foreign nationals who wish to stay in Japan for a short-term purpose such as tourism, visiting family or friends, or business meetings and inspections. The permitted period of stay is 15, 30, or 90 days. Nationals from visa-exempt countries/regions may be able to enter without a visa. Employment is not permitted.
This is the status of residence (a type of "Designated Activities") for foreign patients receiving medical treatment, health check-ups, or recuperation in Japan, as well as their accompanying companions. The permitted stay is within 90 days, 6 months, or 1 year, and the application must be processed through an accredited guarantor organization (such as a medical coordinator).
This is the status of residence (a type of "Designated Activities") for international students who have graduated from Japanese universities or vocational schools and wish to continue job-hunting activities in Japan after graduation. The standard permitted period is 6 months, extendable by an additional 6 months upon renewal. Once employment is secured, a change to a work-related status of residence (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services) is required.
