non-work visa required documents official

Official - Required Documents

Official - Required Documents

The Official status of residence is for persons engaged in official duties of a foreign government or international organization recognized by the Japanese government, and their family members. (Activities falling under the “Diplomat” status of residence are excluded.)

Applicable PersonsPersons engaged in official duties of a foreign government or international organization recognized by the Japanese government, and their family members
Period of Stay5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 3 months, 30 days, 15 days

Examples of Applicable Activities

  • Staff of foreign embassies and consulates (other than diplomats)
  • Staff of international organizations
  • Military personnel and civilian employees of foreign forces stationed in Japan
  • Family members of the above

Required Documents by Application Type

Important Notes Before Applying

  • For questions about how to fill out application forms, required documents, etc., please contact the Immigration Information Center. (TEL: 0570-013904)
  • Applications with incomplete documents may result in significant processing delays or denial of permission.
  • All certificates issued in Japan must be submitted within 3 months of the date of issue.
  • Documents written in foreign languages must be accompanied by a Japanese translation.
  • Submitted documents will not be returned in principle. If you wish to have them returned, please inform the office at the time of application.
  • You may be asked to submit additional documents during the review process.
  • Requirements for foreign nationals who may invite domestic workers and for domestic workers are stipulated in a Ministry of Justice public notice.

Application for Certificate of Eligibility (New)

This is the application for those who wish to newly enter Japan under the Official status of residence.

1. Application for Certificate of Eligibility — 1 copy

Go to application form

2. Photograph — 1

4cm (H) x 3cm (W), taken within 6 months prior to the application, front-facing, without hat, plain background. Write the applicant’s name on the back of the photo and attach it to the photo section of the application form.

3. Return envelope — 1

Standard envelope with the recipient’s address written on it and stamps for registered mail (404 yen) affixed.

4. Note Verbale (口上書) or other document issued by a foreign government or international organization certifying identity and purpose — 1 copy

Application for Change of Status of Residence

This is the application for those who are already residing in Japan under a different status of residence and wish to change to the Official status. Please apply promptly if you intend to engage in the applicable activities. If you are no longer engaged in activities based on your current status of residence, your status may be revoked.

1. Application for Change of Status of Residence — 1 copy

Go to application form

2. Passport and Residence Card

3. Note Verbale (口上書) or other document issued by a foreign government or international organization certifying identity and purpose — 1 copy

Application for Extension of Period of Stay

This is the application for those who are already residing in Japan under the Official status of residence and wish to extend their period of stay.

1. Application for Extension of Period of Stay — 1 copy

Go to application form

2. Passport

3. Note Verbale (口上書) or other document issued by a foreign government or international organization certifying identity and purpose — 1 copy

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