Job Discussion Forums

clearview · Joined: 21 Sep 2005 Posts: 3

guys,

looking to land in Japan around March next year with a WHV.

Quick question. i've scanned my degree certificate and transcript in colour onto gmail. Will that be sufficient for applications and even for a visa switch at a later date?? or do i need to take an original? - i'd rather not, given im gonna be on the road for 5 months prior.

secondly, ive read March is a good time to arrive to find a position. Is earlier in March better or doesn't it really matter?

many thanks

ian

PAULH · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 4672 Location: Western Japan

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

Paul,
He's planning to come here with a WHV, then look for work so he can then switch to a work visa, if I'm not mistaken.

clearview,
Be safe and pack your original degree. Immigration is just like any government office back home. You can never tell what they want. If you absolutely cannot bring it, bring the scanned one, plus a certified copy, plus transcripts.

Apsara · Joined: 20 Sep 2005 Posts: 2142 Location: Tokyo, Japan

I've always been told that for immigration nothing but the original degree will do. It's possible to change status but you're going to need the original when you apply.

freddie's friend daniel · Joined: 17 Apr 2005 Posts: 84 Location: Osaka-fu

I can understand that back-packing around for 5 months with your original certificates somewhere in the botom of your bag is something you want to avoid. Couldn't you get someone to post them to you after you get to Japan? If, as Paul said, you don't need the originals (or indeed any certs) for the WHV, you'll be sure to have an address in Japan by the time you need the real thing. And if not, there's always Poste Restante.

Obviously, posting them carries a risk as well but at least they can be insured and you wouldn't have to hand them over crumpled, stained and smelling of old socks!

ronin · Joined: 22 Feb 2003 Posts: 50 Location: canada

You can work fulltime on a WHV.

clearview · Joined: 21 Sep 2005 Posts: 3

Thanks for the responses. will get it posted out when required, i guess.

As an aside, i've read a few bits of misinformation on the WHV over the last month - i.e starts when you receive it, only valid for 6 months etc.

I applied through London and have been given a one year WHV which begins when i enter Japan - which can be any time up to year from issue. So i can travel till next september and still land in Japan with a years visa. Not bad for �6!

Not sure if thats the same for all nationals though?

regards

PAULH · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 4672 Location: Western Japan