Can I work on a business visa?

No. Business visas are for meetings, conferences, and market research only. You cannot receive payment or perform work that generates income in Japan.

Typically 15-90 days per visit, determined by immigration based on your stated business purpose. The visa itself is valid for 3 months from issue date for entry.

What if my COE is delayed?

Contact your Japanese sponsor to check status. COE applications can take 2-8 weeks depending on the immigration office workload. Plan accordingly and don't book non-refundable flights until you have the COE.

Do I need an invitation letter if I have a COE?

Yes. The COE proves eligibility but you still need an invitation letter from your Japanese business contact detailing meeting purpose, dates, and expense responsibility.

Can I extend my business visa in Japan?

Extensions are possible but require strong justification and must be applied for before your current status expires. Apply at regional immigration offices in Japan with supporting documents.

How to Get a Business Visa for Japan

You need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from your Japanese business partner or sponsor, then apply at a Japanese consulate with your passport, application form, and supporting documents. The process takes 5-10 business days and costs $27-55 depending on your nationality.

Get your Certificate of Eligibility. Your Japanese business partner, client, or sponsor must apply for your COE at the regional immigration office in Japan. This takes 2-4 weeks. They'll send you the original certificate by mail - you need the physical document, not a copy.
Complete visa application form. Download form from the Japanese consulate website for your country. Fill out completely in black ink or type. Attach one 2x2 inch passport photo taken within the last 6 months with white background.
Gather required documents. Bring your passport (valid 6+ months), original COE, completed application form, passport photo, and invitation letter from Japanese company detailing your business purpose, dates, and who pays expenses.
Apply at Japanese consulate. Submit in person or by mail to the consulate that covers your area. Some consulates accept walk-ins, others require appointments. Check their website for current procedures and hours.
Pay visa fee and wait. Fee is $27 for single entry, $55 for multiple entry (some nationalities exempt). Processing takes 5-10 business days. You'll get a visa sticker in your passport valid for 3 months to enter Japan.

Can I work on a business visa?: No. Business visas are for meetings, conferences, and market research only. You cannot receive payment or perform work that generates income in Japan.
How long can I stay?: Typically 15-90 days per visit, determined by immigration based on your stated business purpose. The visa itself is valid for 3 months from issue date for entry.
What if my COE is delayed?: Contact your Japanese sponsor to check status. COE applications can take 2-8 weeks depending on the immigration office workload. Plan accordingly and don't book non-refundable flights until you have the COE.
Do I need an invitation letter if I have a COE?: Yes. The COE proves eligibility but you still need an invitation letter from your Japanese business contact detailing meeting purpose, dates, and expense responsibility.
Can I extend my business visa in Japan?: Extensions are possible but require strong justification and must be applied for before your current status expires. Apply at regional immigration offices in Japan with supporting documents.