Find a position and a Japanese employer who is willing to sponsor an application for a work visa. The majority of work visa applications require the applicant to submit documents certifying his qualifications to perform the work, such as a diploma, and outlining the activities that he will be involved in while in Japan. In some cases, these documents must be certified by the organization the applicant intends to work for. In other cases, the process can be streamlined by the company officials, who can handle the work visa application for the applicant.
Locate the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. Contact the consulate to find out more about the paperwork that will be required to apply for a work visa. Work visas are split into many different categories in Japan, and it's important to find out what category an occupation falls under and submit the appropriate application materials to the embassy. Ask about any fees that must accompany the visa application. The applicant may also have to make a trip to the embassy or consulate to obtain a copy of the work visa application.
Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility, if possible. Certificates of Eligibility can only be obtained in Japan, and usually eliminate the need for additional materials certifying the reason for the visa. They also make the application process move much more quickly, as the application won't be forwarded to an office in Japan for screening.
Gather together and photocopy all essential documents. Besides the specific documents required for an occupation, each visa application must be accompanied by a copy of your passport, two passport photos taken in the past 6 months, payments to cover any fees and two completed applications. Bring all original documents to the embassy or consulate in addition to the copies, just in case.
Wait for the application to be processed. When applying for a work visa from outside of Japan, the process can take several months, especially if a Certificate of Eligibility is not submitted along with the application. If approved, the work visa will be issued and the applicant will be cleared to enter Japan.
