Job Discussion Forums

jillybean · Joined: 01 Jul 2011 Posts: 32 Location: JAPAN

I was just wondering if there are any people on this board that have a nisei visa....

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

I don't, but just what did you want to know about it?

jillybean · Joined: 01 Jul 2011 Posts: 32 Location: JAPAN

I was curious as to how difficult it is to obtain one....I don't really have great documentation of my status. My dad was born in Japan, but left when he was a preteen. I don't have originals of my dad's paperwork, I don't know the proper way to obtain a koseki. My name would not be on it, so I think my dad would have to apply for it...? And I don't know if I'll be able to still apply for an extension of my humanities visa if my nisei visa application is refused--? My dad gave up J citizenship when he was about 22, would that be a problem? And who is usually the sponsor of a nisei visa? Sorry for all the questions; there is so much conflicting info on the internet! I suppose I should go to the immigration office, but I'd at least like to know if I have a chance of making this happen....

Inflames · Joined: 02 Apr 2006 Posts: 486

First thing is that the status is technically called long-term resident (as it isn't just for nikkeis).

Without documentation (you need a koseki) you have absolutely 0% chance. You also need a birth certificate.

The best people to ask would be immigration - if you go there and ask them they'll tell you what you need. They're actually really helpful when they don't think you're trying to con the system.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Bottom of this immigration guidebook link tells you the documentation you need.
http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/tetuduki/kanri/shyorui/Table3-1.html

I agree with Inflames. Ask immigration how to jump through their hoops.

Can I ask why you want to switch to that visa?

A little info on getting the koseki. Basically, I think you're going to have to be in Japan (or know someone who is, and to whom you've given legal right to get it) and have to know the right city hall where it is kept.
http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~jpnwgw/Koseki.html

jillybean · Joined: 01 Jul 2011 Posts: 32 Location: JAPAN

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Perks?
I got a credit card with just a Humanities visa. What else did you envision? And, what type of work do you think you can get? Most non-teaching jobs require experience, the proper education, and a fairly high level of Japanese. Not sure if you have those.

If you just want to work PT, you can with the Humanities visa after the first year, as long as your income meets certain (vague undefined) standards. You can also ask for special permission to do work outside of the realm of the Humanities visa.