Sapporo

1. Overview of Work Visas and Permits in Japan

In Japan, work visas are issued based on the type of work you will be doing. Each visa category corresponds to a specific job type or professional field. Common work visa categories include:

• Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services (for IT professionals, engineers, translators, etc.)
• Skilled Labor (for chefs, artisans, etc.)
• Instructor (for teachers in schools)
• Business Manager (for entrepreneurs or business owners)
• Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) (for industries like agriculture, construction, and hospitality)
• Highly Skilled Professional (for highly qualified individuals in specialized fields)

Each visa type has its own eligibility criteria, required documentation, and application process.

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2. Key Steps to Obtain a Work Visa for Sapporo

The process for obtaining a work visa involves several steps, which are outlined below:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

• You must first secure a job offer from a Japanese employer. The employer will act as your sponsor and provide necessary documents for your visa application.
• Ensure that the job aligns with one of the visa categories mentioned above.

Step 2: Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

• Before applying for a work visa, you need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which is issued by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
• The COE is typically applied for by your employer on your behalf. It serves as proof that you meet the requirements for the visa.
• Processing Time for COE: 1–3 months.
• Documents Required for COE:
  • Completed COE application form (provided by your employer)
  • Passport copy
  • Recent passport-sized photo
  • Employment contract or offer letter
  • Company registration documents (provided by your employer)
  • Job description and qualifications (e.g., degree certificates, professional licenses)

Step 3: Apply for a Work Visa

• Once you receive the COE, you can apply for a work visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
• Documents Required for Work Visa Application:
  • Original COE
  • Completed visa application form
  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Recent passport-sized photo
  • Additional documents as requested by the embassy/consulate
• Visa Processing Time: 5–10 business days (varies by country).
• Visa Fee: Approximately ¥3,000–¥6,000 (varies by nationality and visa type).

Step 4: Enter Japan and Register

• After receiving your visa, you can travel to Japan. Upon arrival, you will receive a Residence Card at the airport if you are staying for more than 3 months.
• Within 14 days of moving to Sapporo, you must register your address at the local ward office (区役所, kuyakusho).

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3. Local Considerations in Sapporo

Sapporo has its own unique characteristics and resources that can help you settle in and navigate the work visa process:

Immigration Office in Sapporo

• The Sapporo Regional Immigration Services Bureau handles immigration-related matters, including COE applications, visa extensions, and status changes.
  • Address: 12 Chome-1-1 Kita 1 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0001
  • Phone: +81 11-261-7502
  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00 PM–4:00 PM
  • Website: Immigration Services Agency of Japan

Ward Offices in Sapporo

• After arriving in Sapporo, you must register your address at your local ward office. Sapporo has 10 wards, and you should visit the one corresponding to your residence.
  • Example: Chūō Ward Office
    • Address: 11 Chome-1-1 Odorinishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042
    • Phone: +81 11-231-4111

Employment Support Services

• Hello Work Sapporo (ハローワーク札幌):

  • A government-run employment service center that provides job listings, career counseling, and support for foreign workers.
  • Address: 1 Chome-1-3 Kita 4 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0004
  • Phone: +81 11-233-0185
  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:15 PM
  • Services are available in Japanese, but some staff may assist in English.

• Hokkaido Foreign Resident Support Center (HFSC):

  • Offers multilingual support for foreign residents, including advice on employment, visas, and living in Sapporo.
  • Address: 1 Chome-1 Kita 3 Jōnishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0003
  • Phone: +81 11-200-9595
  • Website: HFSC Website

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4. Costs Associated with Work Visas

• COE Application Fee: Free (handled by your employer).
• Visa Application Fee: ¥3,000–¥6,000 (varies by nationality).
• Residence Card: Free (issued upon arrival in Japan).
• Address Registration: Free (done at the ward office).

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5. Tips for a Smooth Process

• Language Barrier: Most immigration and government offices in Sapporo operate primarily in Japanese. Consider bringing a Japanese-speaking friend or hiring a translator if you are not fluent.
• Plan Ahead: Start the visa process as early as possible, as COE issuance can take up to 3 months.
• Stay Informed: Regulations and requirements may change, so check the latest updates on the Immigration Services Agency of Japan’s website or consult with your employer.

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6. Additional Resources

• Japan Visa Support Services: If you need professional assistance, there are agencies in Sapporo that specialize in visa applications for foreign workers.
  • Example: Visa Navi Japan
    • Website: Visa Navi Japan
• Cultural Adaptation: Consider joining local expat communities or international groups in Sapporo to ease your transition. Platforms like Meetup or Facebook often have active groups for foreigners in Hokkaido.

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By following these steps and utilizing the resources available in Sapporo, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the work visa process and start your career in this beautiful city. Let me know if you need further assistance!