What core documents are required for visa application? (e.g., diploma, employment certificate, contract, business plan, etc.)

Relocating to JapanVisa applicationDocument PreparationCore DocumentsImmigration ConsultationOverseas Procedures
Created At: 8/11/2025Updated At: 8/18/2025
Answer (1)

Hey there! Seeing you ask this question makes me feel like you're already starting to prepare for your trip to Japan – that's a fantastic first step!

Preparing documents is indeed the top priority when applying for a visa. But it's just like seeing a doctor: you need to know what's wrong before the doctor can prescribe the right treatment. Visa applications work the same way. The core documents you need to prepare depend entirely on the type of visa you're applying for (i.e., your "purpose for visiting Japan").

Below, I've outlined the requirements for the most common scenarios. This should help you understand where to focus your efforts.

1. Work Visa (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, etc.)

This is the most common type, for example, going to Japan to work as a programmer, in marketing, as a translator, etc.

Core Logic: Prove to Japanese Immigration that a legitimate Japanese company wants to hire you and that you meet the requirements for the position.

  • The Most Important Card: Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
    • This is absolutely crucial! Think of it as an "entry permit" issued by Japanese Immigration. It's usually applied for by the Japanese company hiring you. Once you have the COE, your visa is mostly secured.
  • Documents Proving "You're Qualified":
    • Diploma/Degree Certificate: Proves your educational background. E.g., IT roles often require a relevant bachelor's degree or sufficient years of work experience.
    • Resume/Work Experience Certificate: Proves your work history is relevant to the new position.
  • Documents Proving "The Job is Real":
    • Copy of Employment Contract with the Japanese Company: Clearly states your position, salary, job duties, etc., in black and white.

Simply Put: For work visas, most complex documents (like the company's financial statements, reasons for hiring, etc.) are prepared by the Japanese company to apply for the COE. You mainly need to prepare your own educational and work experience proofs.

2. Student Visa

For attending Japanese language schools, vocational schools, universities, or graduate schools in Japan.

Core Logic: Prove you are a genuine student and have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

  • The Most Important Card: Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
    • Again, this is typically applied for by the Japanese school you'll attend.
  • Documents Proving "You're a Student":
    • Letter of Admission: The school's offer letter.
    • Graduation Certificate for Your Highest Level of Education: E.g., a high school diploma if going for university.
  • Documents Proving "You Have Money" (This is very critical!):
    • Proof of Financial Capability: This is often the most challenging part for parents.
      • Bank Deposit Certificate: Generally requires the equivalent of around 200,000 RMB, frozen for 3-6 months.
      • Employment and Income Proof of the Financial Sponsor: Usually parents'. Proves the source of the funds is legitimate and sustainable.

3. Business Manager Visa

For starting your own company or becoming a business owner in Japan.

Core Logic: Prove you have a real, viable business plan, along with startup capital and management ability. This is significantly more complex.

  • The Soul Document: Business Plan
    • This is the core of all materials! You need to detail what your company does, market analysis, profit forecasts, staffing plans, etc. Immigration will scrutinize this to judge if your business is viable.
  • Documents Proving "The Company is Real":
    • Company Registration Documents (Articles of Incorporation, Certificate of Registered Information, etc.): Prove you have established or are establishing a company.
    • Office Lease Agreement: Must have a separate, real office address.
  • Documents Proving "You Have Startup Funds":
    • Proof of Capital: Prove you have transferred at least 5 million yen in capital to the company account.
  • Documents Proving "You Can Manage":
    • Personal Resume: Prove you have relevant management experience.

4. Spouse/Dependent Visa

Your spouse or parent is in Japan, and you are going to join them.

Core Logic: Prove your relationship is genuine and that the family member in Japan has the financial capacity to support you.

  • Documents Proving "The Relationship is Real":
    • Notarized Marriage Certificate (Spouse): If married in China, requires notarization and authentication.
    • Notarized Birth Certificate (Children):
    • Life Photos Together, Chat Records, etc.: Supplementary evidence to prove the relationship's authenticity.
  • Documents Proving "The Family Member in Japan Can Support You":
    • Employment/Income Proof of the Relative in Japan (Certificate of Tax Payment, Certificate of Income Tax Paid): This is key, proving they have stable income.
    • ID Proof of the Relative in Japan: Such as passport copy, Residence Card copy.

Summary: The "Essential Trio" Needed for Almost All Visas

No matter which visa you apply for, you'll almost certainly need these three:

  1. Original Passport: Must have sufficient validity.
  2. Visa Application Form: Download from the Embassy or Consulate website and fill out truthfully.
  3. Passport Photo: Usually white background, taken within the last 6 months, with specific size requirements.

Friendly Tips: Some Practical Advice

  • Always Refer to Official Sources: What I've shared is general experience, but policies can change. The most authoritative information always comes from the official website of the Japanese Embassy/Consulate General in China. Always check the latest document list on the official site before you start!
  • About Translation: All Chinese documents, such as diplomas, employment certificates, contracts, etc., usually require Japanese or English translations attached.
  • Document Validity Period: Many documents, like bank deposit certificates and employment certificates, have validity requirements, typically "valid for 3 months from the date of issue." Don't prepare them too early.
  • Better to Have More Than Less, But Keep it Tidy: While meeting official requirements, if supplementary materials can better support your case, include them. However, ensure all documents are organized clearly and logically for the visa officer's review.

Best of luck! Preparing documents can be tedious, but take it step by step, and you'll definitely get it done.

Created At: 08-11 12:16:24Updated At: 08-12 02:20:30