Job Discussion Forums

[Zabac]

Hi everyone,

I'm (probably) planning to move to Japan this fall, somewhere not-Tokyo, and I'm wondering about visa stuff. I've gotten different information from different sources. As an American, I understand it's a little trickier. Here's what I think I know:

- If you don't get a working visa before you enter Japan, you have to get a 90-day tourist visa.
- If you get a tourist visa, the implication is that you will not seek employment.
- If you get caught trying to get a job on a tourist visa, it's possible that you'll be fined or deported or imprisoned.
- People do it anyway and basically are never caught, and employers have no problem setting the visa in motion even if you're already in Japan.

Am I correct? Any help on this would be greatly appreciated.

Elizabeth

[Glenski]

It is not "trickier" for Americans.

Get a visa before you come, or get one afterward. The only caveat is not to tell immigration or customs when you arrive that you are job hunting, or they will put you on the plane back home.

Few countries actually have a tourist visa. As an American, your passport serves as a visa waiver for tourist purposes. Come and stay for 90 days that way.

[Zabac]

Got it, thanks.