Processing Time to Get Your Japan Work Visa from Thailand | เวลาประมวลผลวีซ่าญี่ปุ่น
Start to Finish Processing Time for Japan Work Visa for Thailand: 1-3 Months
The whole process to get a Japan Work Visa for Thailand’s nationals can take 1-3 months. This includes sourcing important documents, booking and attending your appointment, to waiting for the decision and receiving your visa.
Thais are usually exempted from needing Japanese visas [1] but for those looking to work or live in Japan for more than (90 days) 3 months, the same all other international talents, you are required to secure a Japanese Work Visa. [2]
Japan Work Visa Processing Time Upon Submission Documents: 5-10 Working Days[3]
On the day of your appointment, you will be given a receipt in exchange for your passport. The receipt will indicate a date (5 working days from appointment date) when you can get your passport back as well as the visa decision. However, if additional documents are requested after your appointment date, the decision date will also be pushed back. In this case, you may contact the Embassy with the 8-digit barcode number on the receipt after 10 working days to find out if your passport is for collection and if a decision has been made.
You need to travel to Japan before documents expire!
It’s imperative that you start the COE process with your company as early as they ask for the requirements, and to start your visa application somewhere between 1-3 months from your departure date. Too late and you’ll run out of time, but too early and some of your documents’ validity might expire. [4]
This time frame, however, does not include the amount of time you need to secure a job offer which is essential for a Japanese Work Visa. You can find out more about that from our complete guide on how to look for a job in Japan as a Thai.
Now, let’s drill down into everything you need to know about Japanese Work Visas! This comprehensive guide will walk you through start to finish—and beyond. We’ll also run you through the vital visa-related actions you need to do upon landing in Japan, renewing your visa, and key factors to know as early as possible if you’re interested in a permanent residence in Japan.
Without further ado, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a work visa for Japan:
Step 1: The Main Japanese Work Visa Requirement for Thais | ข้อกำหนดวีซ่าญี่ปุ่น: Secure a Job Offer
The first requirement to securing a work visa for Japan is to prove that you have signed an offer with a Japanese company. Your company will be acting as your sponsor guaranteeing that you will be able to afford living in Japan. You can learn more about getting a job in Japan as a Thai in our comprehensive guide.
With some Japanese companies that are highly experienced with taking in foreign talents, they might do the whole process for you. If not, the job agency (such as FAST OFFER International) you worked with may assist you with the visa application process.
Typically, after signing your contract with the Japanese company, the HR department will guide you through the process. Your company will also help you get the visa that best fits your job description. There are 16 kinds of Japanese Working Visas based on job type and qualifications.[5]
Different kinds of work visas in Japan:
- Professor (Examples: university professor, assistant professor, assistant, etc.)
- Artist (Examples: composers, songwriters, artists, sculptors, craftspeople, photographers, etc.)
- Religious activities (Examples: religious people such as monks, bishops, missionaries, etc.)
- Journalist (Examples: newspaper journalists, magazine journalists, editors, news camera operators, announcers, etc.)
- Business manager (Examples: company presidents, directors, etc.)
- Legal/Accounting services (Examples: attorneys, judicial scriveners, public accountants, tax accountants, etc. certified in Japan)
- Medical services (Examples: physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, etc. certified in Japan)
- Researcher (Examples: researchers, investigators, etc. at research institutes, etc.)
- Instructor (Examples: teachers, etc. at elementary schools, intermediate schools, and high schools)
- Engineer/Specialist in humanities/International services (Examples: scientific engineers, IT engineers, foreign language teachers, interpreters, copywriters, designers, etc.)
- Intra-company transferee (Examples: people transferred to the Japanese branch (head office of the same company, etc.)
- Nursing care (Example: certified care worker)
- Entertainers (Examples: musicians, actors, singers, dancers, sportspeople, models, etc.)
- Skilled labor (Examples: chefs specializing in the food of a foreign country, animal trainers, pilots, sports trainers, sommeliers, etc.)
- Specified skilled worker (Work-ready foreign nationals possessing certain expertise and skills in certain industrial fields.)
- Technical intern training (Examples: Technical intern)
Step 2: Get Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for your Japan Work Visa as a Thai
Processing time: 1-3 months.
As soon as you sign with your company, their HR department will also give you a list of requirements for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is acquired from an immigration office located in Japan but not to worry! Your employer in Japan will apply on your behalf. [6] It’s important to note that once issued, you need to travel to Japan before this document expires. This document confirms that you meet the entry requirements to land and work in Japan and are not taking part in any fraudulent activity.
It is important to submit your COE requirements as soon as possible. You need at least an e-mailed copy of this document by your scheduled visa appointment. Only book an appointment once you have a copy of your COE. [7]
ข้อกำหนดวีซ่าญี่ปุ่น | Required documents you need to submit to your company for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE):
- A completed COE application form. There are different CoE forms depending on your purpose. You can download a form for your category from the Japan Immigration Services Agency website or you can ask your company for the correct form.
- A scanned copy of your passport.
- Should be valid when you’re scheduled to go to Japan
- Must have at least 2 empty pages
- 3×4 cm photo taken within the past three months. Make sure you are not wearing glasses!
- Signed Work Contract with your Japanese Company indicating salary, position, contract length
- Additional documents on a case-to-case basis:
- Academic credentials (Transcript of Record, diplomas, and additional certificates mentioned in your resume )
- For Mid-career applicants, Certificate of Eligibility from all former employers to prove resume-cited work experience.
Step 3: Japan Work Visa Application from Thailand | การสมัครวีซ่าญี่ปุ่น
Visa Processing Time: Usually, 5-10 working days.
The average time the Japanese embassy requires to decide on your application is 5 working days upon submitting at the JVAC assigned to your residence. This date is printed on the receipt you get on the day of your application when you submitted your passport. You may also get back your passport on the day of the decision. However, in some cases where additional documents were required after submission, that time frame can extend. If you have not heard from JVAC in 10 days, you need to call and check the progress with JVAC using the 8-digit barcode number on your receipt.
On the date of application, JVAC will hand you a receipt in exchange for your passport and you will find the collecton date of your passport on the receipt. The average time required for the necessary examination is 5 working days, but in some cases the Embassy will request additional documents or an interview, which will take longer. If you have not heard from us more than 10 days after your application, you can call us and check progress by quoting the 8 digit barcode number on your receipt.
Required Documents for your Japanese Work Visa as a Thai | ข้อกำหนดวีซ่าญี่ปุ่น [8]
- Passport
- With more than 2 blank pages and with re-entry permit to Thailand.
- Validity should encompass your intended departure date to Japan
- Present old passports, if any
- A filled-out, signed, and printed visa application form here.
- One photograph
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Size: 2 x 1.4 inches
- Black and white or color with plain background
- Questionnaire is available at JVAC or can be downloaded here
- Original COE(if available) and a copy.
- Job offer letter (if required).
Reminders for your Document Requirements [9]
Here are a few technical things to remember when gathering the required documents for visa application:
- Depending on your status or circumstances, additional documentation may be requested.
- Print out a copy of your COE.
- Do not staple documents.
- The embassy keeps all documents submitted to us except for your actual passport. If certain original documents need to be returned, please inform the staff and submit photocopies.
- If the documents are insufficient or incomplete, JVAC will not be able to accept your application.
- Visa will not be granted if counterfeit or forged documents are submitted. However, the provision of satisfactory documents does not guarantee the issuance of a visa.
- All documents submitted to JVAC, except for your passport, will not be returned. If certain original documents need to be returned, inform the staff and submit photocopies.
Where to Apply for Your Japan Work Visa in Thailand
Once you receive your COE, you can apply for a work visa at the Japan Visa Application Center, Regional Intake Center, or Consulate-General of Japan in Chiang-Mai near you. JVAC and the intake centers are in charge of accepting visa applications only. The Visa examination is at the Embassy’s responsibility. However, it is important to note not to send your documents directly to the Embassy of Japan. You will be responsible for taking back your unprocessed documents.
The counters of intake centers is located inside the post offices and the applicants can apply through one of the 11 regional intake centers.
Japan Visa Application Center in Bangkok, Thailand [10]
- Office hours: Monday – Friday (Except Embassy’s holidays. Holidays 2013) | 08:30 – 12:00 / 14:00 – 16:00
- Address: 4th floor of Chamchuri Square (MRT Sam Yan Station, Exit 2)
Regional Intake Centers Accepting Japanese Visa Applications in Thailand[12] [13]
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 16:30
- Ayutthaya – Phra Nakhon Sri Ayutthaya Post Office[13]
- 123 Moo5, Uthong Road, Ho Rattanachai Sub-District, Phra Nakhon Sri Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Sri Ayutthaya 13000
- Bangkok – Camchuri Square Building, 4th Floor. Unit 403[14]
- 317 Phayathai Rd. Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
- Hat Yai – Hat Yai Post Office [15]
- 43 Niphat Songkhro Rd, Hat Yai Sub-District, Hat Yai District, Songkhla, 90110
- Khon Kean – Khon Kaen Post Office [16]
- 153/8 Klang Mueang Rd, Nai Mueang Sub-District, Muang District, Khon Kaen 40000
- Nakhon Rachashima – Nakhon Ratchasima Post Office [17]
- 371 Assadang Road, Nai Muang Sub-District, Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000
- Phetchaburi – Phetchaburi Post Office [18]
- 4Ratchavithi Rd., Klongkachang Sub-District, Muang District, Phetchaburi 76000
- Phitsanulok – Phitsanulok Post Office [19]
- 118 Phutthabucha Road, Nai Muang Sub-District, Muang District, Phitsanulok 65000
- Phuket – Phuket Post Office [20]
- 12/16 Montri Road, Talad Yai Sub-District, Muang District, Phuket 83000
- Rayong -Rayong Post Office [21]
- 125 Sukhumvit Road, Tha Pradu Sub-District, Muang District, Rayong 21000
- Sri Racha – Sri Racha Post Office [22]
- 7/ 1 Jemjomphon Road, Sri Racha Sub-District, Sri Racha District, Chonburi 20110
- Suratthani – Suratthani Post Office [23]
- 291/1 Taladmai, Tald Sub-District, Muang Suratthanipost 84000
- Ubonrachathani – Ubonratchathani Post Office [24]
- 145 Srinarong Rd, Nai Mueang Sub-District, Muang District, Ubonratchathani, 40000
Japan Work Visa Fee in Thailand [25]
Japanese Work Visa Fees Breakdown | ค่าธรรมเนียมวีซ่าญี่ปุ่น [26]
Total Cost of Japan Work Visa Fee for Thais: 1705-1955 BAHT
- 750 BAHT – Single Entry Japan Work Visa Fee (Refundable if application is rejected)
- 705 BAHT – JVAC Processing Fee (includes 7% VAT)
- 500 BAHT – Both ways Courier Fee for Intake Center Applications (Includes 7% VAT)
- 250 BAHT – Courier Fee to office/residential address/Thailand Post Office for Passport Return for JVAC Bangkok (Includes 7% VAT, Optional)
All charges are to be paid in cash only in Thai Baht on the date of your appointment. For submission of application through intake centers, you can pay in cash at Thai Post office.[27]
The total cost of your “Single-Entry” Japan Work Visa depends on four factors: when you filed your application, if you pass the application process, additional services, and which center you submitted to.
Japan Work Visa Fee for Thais
The cost for Japanese visas changes with every Japanese fiscal year (April 1 – March 31 of the next year). Thus, the cost of your Japanese work visa will depend on when you start your application. However, you will not have to pay this fee if your visa is rejected. On the other hand, if you use a third-party agency to help you, you’ll have to pay their service fee either way.
Agency Processing Fee and Optional Courier Fees
You will have to pay the agency processing fee and courier fees you avail yourself of on your appointment date. The Courier fee will depend on if you apply in Bangkok or an intake centre. Whether or not your application passes, these fees are nonrefundable.
Security Regulations and Reminders for Your Appointment at the JVAC[28]
Reminders for Your Appointment[29]
- Be ready to be photographed
- You will be digitally photographed during your appointment. Your digital photograph must show your full face. You cannot wear sunglasses, tinted spectacles, or a head covering unless it is worn for religious or ethical reasons. Applicants wearing head gear for religious purposes should ensure that as much of their face, forehead, and ears as possible is visible.
- Applicants should avoid wearing light-colored clothing, instead,bright-colored clothing is recommended.
- You can submit in person or through a representative
- You may submit your application in person, through a representative, or through one of the intake centers.
- Bring all relevant documents
- Best to bring both the originals and copies of all your supporting documents.
- Bring cash for the fees
- All fees should be paid on the day of your appointment in BAHT at the centre or the intake centre’s Thai Post Office.
Abiding by JVAC’s Security Regulations
For security purposes, JVAC have strict rules for the premises. Here are things to remember when visiting.
1. Come alone
The Visa Application Centre is restricted to visa applicants only.
2. Phones must be on silent or vibrate mode
Switch Mobile phonesmto silent or vibrate mode before entering the Visa Application Centre. Devices that cannot be switched on cannot be taken into the Visa Application Centre.
3. Photography, filming, and audio recording are not allowed
Under no circumstances is photography, filming or audio recording permitted. Mobile phones have to be put away when you are dealing with the centre’s staff.
4. Items not permitted at the Visa Application Centre:
- All bags such as travel bags, back packs, briefcases, suitcases, leather, jute or cloth bags and zip folders. Only a plastic bag containing your application related papers would be permitted. (You may use our cloaking facility to store your items. You may ask the guards and receptionists regarding the cost of the facility).
- All battery operated or electronic items such as cameras, tablets, audio/video cassettes, compact discs, MP3s, floppies, laptops, or portable music players, hard disk drive (HDDs), spy devices, audio recorders, or other devices which can hinder the centre’s functioning.
- Sealed envelopes or packages.
- Any inflammable item such as matchboxes/ lighters/ electric cigarettes /fuel.
- Any sharp objects such as scissors, pen knives or nail filers.
- Weapons, weapon – like objects or explosive material of any kind.
- Other items may be prohibited based on security staff discretion.
What Happens After Your Work Visa Appointment?
Check Your Acknowledgment Receipt for Passport Collection & Decision Date
Keep your receipt!
After 5 working days, you may collect your passport at the JVAC centre or Intake center where you submitted your documents as well as find out the visa decision. You can confirm the date on the receipt you received during the appointment. Expect to be delayed if you were made to submit additional documents after your appointment date. You may call the center 10 days after your appointment date to find out the status of your Japanese work visa. [30]
Make sure to bring the acknowledgment receipt to JVAC or the intake centre you submitted to. Provide an authorization letter should you use a third party representative. Full name of the passport(s) is required upon collection. [31]
If you submitted to an Intake Centre,Thailand Post Office will hold the passport for 7 days. Beyond 7 days, the passport will be returned to Japan Visa Application centre in Bangkok where it can be collected. [32]
Courier Service
Thailand Post will make 2 attempts to deliver your passport at the given address before it is returned to the Japan Visa Application centre in Bangkok where it can be collected.
Possible Japan Work Visa Challenges for Thais
Reasons for Visa Rejection
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan shared possible reasons visa applications may be rejected: [6]
- Applications from persons holding Japanese nationality
- The application is made to the Japanese Embassy / Consulate General outside your country (region) of birth or country (region) of residence.
- You currently hold a valid visa or re-entry permit.
- Your previous visa application to visit Japan for a specific purpose was rejected and you reapplied to visit Japan for the same purpose within six months of the rejection.
- The visa application is already being processed at a different Japanese Embassy / Consulate General.
- There are some errors or omissions in the submitted documents.
- The period of validity or the visa attachment space of your passport is insufficient.
- The application is made by a person without the qualifications to make a proxy application.
- An application for issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility is still pending.
- The applicant does not qualify for the status of residence due to insufficient income to live independently in Japan.
- Documents failed verification of the applicant’s identity and the validity of his/ her passport.
- Certificate of Eligibility was issued based on mistaken or fraudulent information.
- No university degree or lack of work experience
- Criminal records that fall within certain categories
- Report incorrect information
How to avoid a work visa rejection
Could you imagine failing at the very last step? After all the effort of securing a job and sending in your requirements, you can still fail to get a visa due to factors out of your hands. There is a way though to lessen that risk dramatically.
Before securing a job through FAST OFFER International, one of our talents was accepted as a teacher at a language school in Japan. However, the school was unable to help her secure a visa due to some technicalities outside of the talent’s control.
Smaller companies often need to prove the need for foreign workers more rigorously than established companies. Bigger, more established companies have a better chance of securing a work visa. Working with an experienced agency to find a well-vetted Japanese company can make all the difference.
Step 4: Travel to Japan & Get Your Residence Card [7]
- Processing Time: same day, or a few weeks
When and how to get your Japanese residence card
After obtaining your visa, you can travel to Japan. Upon arrival, present your visa and COE at immigration, and the airport will issue you your Residence Card. If you do not receive the card at your port of entry, it will be mailed to your permanent address later.
Reminders About your Residence Card
The Residence Card serves as your identification in Japan and must always be with you. Failure to present your residency card if asked to be seen by security, police, or immigration officers can lead to a 200,000 yen fine.[8]
Step 5: Register at Your Local City/Ward/Town Office [9]
Registration deadlines and penalties
Failing to register your local Japanese address in time can have big ramifications. Make sure you secure an address and register as soon as possible. City or ward offices are typically open from 9:00-17:00, Monday through Friday. No appointment is needed.
Within 14 days (2 weeks) of arriving in Japan, you must register your address at the local ward or city office. Failing to submit your fixed residential address within two weeks can lead to a fine of up to 200,000 yen. Going beyond 90 days (about 3 months) without a valid reason may lead to the revocation of your residence status.
A fixed address will also help you acquire your social security, SIM card, and bank account.
Updating your registered details and requesting a new residence card
You can notify your local immigration office if after registering you have a change of name, date of birth, gender, nationality/religion. This is also where you get your residence card renewed or reissued in case it is lost, stolen, destroyed, severely damaged, or defaced.
Insurance registration (for those not covered by an employer)
You can get your insurance registration at the same immigration office. If you are not covered by your employer’s insurance, after getting your residency card, you will also be registering for National Health Insurance. There is no joining fee. The insurance card and charges will be sent to your home later.
Additional Visa Information You’ll Want to Know: Renewing or Upgrading Your Japanese Work Visa
After completing the necessary registrations, you can legally start working in Japan. Following these steps will help Thais successfully obtain a work visa and embark on their careers in Japan.
Renewing Japanese Work Visas [10]
Work Visa Validity
Work visas are valid for 3 months, 1, 3, or 5 years, and can be renewed.
2-3 months before your work visa expires, you might get a notification from your company that your residence card is about to expire. To extend your stay in Japan by three or five years, you’ll need to renew your visa. If employed at a Japanese company, your employer or a company representative can apply on your behalf.
When do you renew your Visa?
You need to renew your work visa before it expires. You can start the renewal process as early as 2 months before your visa expires.
Required Documents to renew your visa
- A completed Extension of the Period of Stay Application Form (you can download it from the website of the Japan Immigration Services Agency) or get it here.
- Your passport
- Your Residence Card
- Passport-size picture of yourself, with the following specifications:
- Dimensions: 4cm x 3cm
- Taken within the last three months
- Plain and light-colored background, without any patterns and shadows
- You must be staring straight ahead, with a neutral facial expression.
- Your face must be fully visible.
- Focused, clear, and sharp good quality
- Proof you meet the financial requirements to continue living in Japan.
- Proof of continued employment which states the details of your employment, such as the salary, position, and duration
- The company’s registration documents
- Proof of the annual income and tax payment
Update related documents before they expire
When you renew your visa, a new residence card is issued. Avoid getting your bank account locked by updating your details with your bank branch before your old residence card expires. As soon as you get a new residence card, update your bank branch with your new residence card in person.
Qualifying for Permanent Residency
Want to work in Japan indefinitely? You might qualify for permanent residency. [11]
Types of visas who can apply for permanent residency:
- Visa for highly skilled professional sub-categories
- Visa for the spouse of a Japanese national
- Long-term visa, or10 years of continuous residency in Japan
PR Calculator for highly skilled professionals
For highly skilled professionals, you can use this PR calculator to check if you qualify.
You’ll be scored based on your age range, academic background, work experience, the organization you work for, annual salary, Japanese language ability, research achievements, and Japanese national qualifications.
- For those who have worked in Japan for 3 years, you need to score at least 70 points.
- For those who’ve only worked for a year in Japan, you need to score 80 points.
You’re all set to go! Start your journey today by learning Japanese or signing up with FAST OFFER International and getting that job offer!