2026-06-11

When considering employment in Japan or hiring foreign workers, the process of obtaining a “work visa” is an essential step. Furthermore, there are important legal procedures you need to be aware of regarding “temporary returns home” during your period of stay. This article explains the basic points that both foreign workers and Japanese companies should understand.

Basics of Hiring Foreign Nationals and Work Visas

When a company in Japan hires a foreign national, it is mandatory to obtain a “work visa” that matches the nature of the work to be performed. While there are many types of work visas, such as “Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, and International Services,” applicants must meet specific requirements regarding educational background and work experience in all cases.

For foreign nationals considering naturalization in Japan in the future, obtaining this work status, maintaining continuous residence in Japan, and fulfilling public obligations such as tax payment are key requirements for the application.

Companies are required to accurately identify which visa category applies to the talent they seek and promptly arrange the necessary documents. Selecting the appropriate visa and handling renewal procedures are not only essential for protecting the foreign national’s career but also serve as a critical foundation for corporate compliance and maintaining stable employment.

How “Deemed Re-entry Permission” Works

Foreign nationals living in Japan on a work visa who plan to “temporarily return” to their home country to visit family or for business purposes must understand an important rule under Japan’s Immigration Control Act (ICA).

Particular attention should be paid to the “Deemed Re-entry Permit” system, which applies when returning to Japan within one year of departure. While this system eliminates the need to obtain complex prior approval from the Immigration Bureau, it is essential to check the appropriate box on the “Re-entry/Departure Record (ED Card)” at customs or other immigration counters at the airport upon departure.

If you forget to complete this procedure before departing, your work visa may expire, and the residency status you have worked so hard to establish could be nullified. It is also important for corporate HR personnel to thoroughly verify this procedure before foreign employees travel overseas and to provide support to prevent problems before they arise.

Benefits for Both Companies and Foreign Nationals

For foreign nationals who hope to naturalize in Japan in the future, a stable work environment at their current job is a major positive factor in the naturalization screening process. When Japanese companies demonstrate understanding of the various work visa procedures and schedule management related to temporary returns to their home country, and provide attentive support, this serves as a powerful motivator for deepening trust within the company.

Additionally, while the naturalization application requires “continuous residence in Japan for at least five years,” it is important to note that leaving Japan for an extended period during a given year may be deemed a break in the continuity of residence.

By sharing these legal considerations in advance and creating an environment where foreign employees can travel between their home country and Japan with peace of mind, companies can prevent employee turnover and lay the groundwork for successful long-term talent retention and organizational globalization.

Summary

To successfully secure employment in Japan, achieve naturalization, and ensure the success of a company’s hiring of foreign nationals, a thorough understanding of “work visas” and proper management of “temporary return to home country” procedures during travel are essential. By ensuring both parties correctly understand the rules and work together, legal issues can be avoided, and a strong relationship of trust can be built.