Global Major Cities Guide

Essential information on visa applications, renewals, and immigration office support for foreign residents.

Sections

1. Immigration Services in Kyoto: Overview

Kyoto does not have a dedicated Regional Immigration Bureau like larger cities such as Osaka or Tokyo. Instead, immigration services for Kyoto residents are handled by the Osaka Regional Immigration Services Bureau and its Kyoto Branch Office. This branch office provides services for visa applications, residence status changes, re-entry permits, and other immigration-related matters.

2. Visa Categories

Japan offers a variety of visa types depending on the purpose of your stay. Below are the main categories relevant to Kyoto:

Short-Term Stay (Tourist Visa)

For tourism, visiting family/friends, or attending conferences.
Duration: Up to 90 days (depending on nationality).
Citizens of many countries are visa-exempt for short stays (check Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the list).

Work Visas

For employment in specific fields such as teaching, engineering, research, or skilled labor.
Examples: Instructor Visa (for teaching English), Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa, etc.

Student Visa

For studying at universities, language schools, or vocational schools in Kyoto.

Spouse or Dependent Visa

For spouses or dependents of Japanese nationals or foreign residents.

Cultural Activities Visa

For those engaging in unpaid cultural or artistic activities, such as studying traditional Japanese arts in Kyoto.

Permanent Residency

For long-term residents who meet specific criteria (e.g., 10 years of continuous residence in Japan, or less for certain visa holders like spouses of Japanese nationals).

Other Visas

Business Manager Visa, Highly Skilled Professional Visa, and others.

3. Application Procedures

The process for applying for a visa or changing your residence status involves several steps:

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Identify the visa category that matches your purpose of stay.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

See the "Required Documents" section below for details.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Applications are submitted to the Kyoto Branch Office of the Osaka Regional Immigration Services Bureau.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Processing times vary depending on the visa type (typically 1-3 months for most applications).

Step 5: Receive Your Residence Card

If approved, you will receive a residence card (在留カード, Zairyū Kādo), which serves as your official ID in Japan.

4. Required Documents

The documents required depend on the visa type. Below are general requirements:

For Work Visas:

Passport (original and copy).
Completed visa application form.
Recent passport-sized photo (4cm x 3cm).
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by your employer in Japan.
Employment contract or offer letter.
Proof of qualifications (e.g., degree certificates, professional licenses).

For Student Visas:

Passport (original and copy).
Completed visa application form.
Recent passport-sized photo.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issued by the educational institution.
Proof of financial support (e.g., bank statements, scholarship documents).

For Spouse/Dependent Visas:

Passport (original and copy).
Completed visa application form.
Recent passport-sized photo.
Marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificate (for dependents).
Proof of financial support.
Residence card of the sponsoring resident in Japan.

For Permanent Residency:

Passport and residence card.
Application form for permanent residency.
Proof of continuous residence in Japan (e.g., tax records, employment history).
Letter of recommendation from your employer or guarantor.

5. Associated Costs

Visa application fee: ¥4,000 to ¥6,000 (depending on the visa type).
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) issuance: No fee (but your sponsor/employer may incur costs).
Permanent residency application fee: ¥8,000.

6. Office Locations

Kyoto Branch Office of the Osaka Regional Immigration Services Bureau

Address: Kyoto Dai-ni Red Cross Building, 2nd Floor, 1-3 Higashikujo Kitakarasuma-cho, Minami-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture.
Access: A 5-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station (Hachijo Exit).
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).
Phone: +81-75-672-6165.

Osaka Regional Immigration Services Bureau (Main Office)

If your case requires more complex processing, you may need to visit the main office in Osaka.
Address: 1-29-53 Nankokita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture.
Access: A 10-minute walk from Cosmosquare Station on the Chuo Line.

7. Cultural and Local Considerations

Politeness and Formality: Japanese culture places a high value on politeness and formality. Always address immigration officers respectfully and use polite language.
Punctuality: Arrive on time for appointments or visits to the immigration office.
Documentation: Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and neatly organized. Missing or incorrect documents can delay your application.
Language Barrier: While some staff may speak English, it’s helpful to bring a Japanese-speaking friend or translator if you’re not fluent in Japanese.
Peak Times: Immigration offices can be crowded, especially during peak periods (e.g., April and October, when many students and workers arrive). Arrive early to avoid long waits.
Residence Card: Always carry your residence card with you, as it is required by law for foreign residents in Japan.

8. Additional Tips

Health Insurance: Once you receive your residence card, register for Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) at your local ward office in Kyoto.
Ward Office Registration: Foreign residents must register their address at the local ward office (区役所, Kuyakusho) within 14 days of moving to Kyoto.
Language Schools: If you’re on a student visa, Kyoto has many reputable language schools and universities, such as Kyoto University and Ritsumeikan University.
Cultural Adaptation: Kyoto is a traditional city, so learning basic Japanese phrases and understanding local customs (e.g., bowing, removing shoes indoors) will help you integrate smoothly.

If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!