2025-12-28

For companies exploring the use of global talent, hiring British nationals can be a significant asset. However, securing the appropriate work visa is essential for them to work in Japan. This article explains the basics of work visas, specific considerations for British nationals, and key points for successful visa acquisition.

What is a Work Visa?

A work visa is a residency status that foreigners must obtain to engage in paid activities in Japan. Officially termed “residency status permitting employment,” it is categorized based on the nature of the work, such as “Engineering, Humanities, and International Services,” “Highly Skilled Professional,” or “Management and Administration.”

Simply wanting to hire a foreigner is not sufficient grounds for obtaining a visa; the job duties must align with the permitted activities under the residency status.

Key requirements for the company include: a valid employment contract, remuneration equal to or higher than that of Japanese employees, and the business’s continuity and stability. The relevance of the foreigner’s education and work history to the job duties is also a major point of review. A significant difference from hiring Japanese nationals is that the work visa process scrutinizes not only the foreigner but also the hiring company’s structure.

How can British nationals obtain a work visa?

British nationals seeking a work visa in Japan generally face no special advantages or disadvantages based on nationality.

The crucial factor is determining which residence status applies. For example, roles like interpreter/translator or overseas business operations would fall under the “Technical/Humanities/International Services” status. IT engineers would be considered for the same status or the “Highly Skilled Professional” status.

The typical procedure involves the Japanese company acting as the host entity and first applying to the Immigration Services Agency for a “Certificate of Eligibility.” After receiving this certificate, the individual applies for the visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in the UK before entering Japan.

While degree certificates and resumes can be submitted in English, attaching Japanese translations may facilitate smoother processing depending on the content.

Key Points for Acquisition

The most crucial factor for smoothly obtaining a work visa for British nationals is “clarifying the job duties.” If the job description is abstract, it risks being deemed unskilled labor during review, increasing the likelihood of rejection. It is vital to specifically detail and explain the expertise required and the reasons why the role is difficult to fill with Japanese nationals in the job description.

The employment contract’s contents are also crucial. Clearly state the remuneration amount, working hours, and employment period, and explicitly demonstrate compliance with Japanese labor laws.

Furthermore, for newly established companies or SMEs, submitting a business plan and financial statements to supplement explanations of business stability is highly effective. Consulting with specialists like administrative scriveners enhances document quality and improves approval rates.

Summary

When obtaining a work visa for British nationals, the nature of the work and the company’s structure are prioritized over nationality. Selecting the appropriate residency status and preparing documents that substantiate expertise are key to success. To facilitate the smooth hiring of foreign nationals, consulting a specialist at an early stage is recommended.