The "Entertainment Visa" is a status of residence required for foreigners to engage in entertainment or sports activities in Japan. This visa is applicable to activities in various entertainment fields, such as dancers, singers, actors, models, and professional athletes. Careful preparation and proof of performance are required for application, and professional support is important.
Table of Contents
- What is an entertainment visa?
- Eligible Activities
- Period of stay and renewal
- Required Documents and Application Requirements
- Points for review of entertainment content
- Common Reasons for Disapproval
- Flow of obtaining a permit
- Support by administrative scriveners
What is an entertainment visa?
The entertainment visa is a status of residence for foreigners who engage in "activities related to theatrical performances, performances, musical performances, sports, and other entertainment". Activities at commercial facilities, event venues, television, movies, productions, etc. are expected to be engaged in.
Eligible Activities
- Performances on stage as singers, dancers and performers
- Appearances in movies, dramas, commercials, etc.
- Fashion show and advertising model
- Wrestling, boxing and other sports entertainment
- Touring circus, traditional performing arts, etc.
Period of stay and renewal
The period of stay for an entertainment visa is set as "15 days," "3 months," "6 months," or "1 year" depending on the activity. Since the period of stay is set based on the performance schedule, renewal may be accompanied by schedule changes or contractual changes.
Required Documents and Application Requirements
- Application for Certificate of Eligibility
- Contract (details of performance, remuneration, duration)
- Schedule of performances, recordings and activities
- Past activities (videos, posters, etc.)
- Company profile and income/expense plan of the inviting party
- Any additional materials required by the Immigration Office (e.g., facility drawings, seating chart, etc.)
Points for review of entertainment content
- Amount of compensation: Must be equal to or better than a Japanese national.
- Performance Details: Not merely serving customers in a restaurant, etc.
- Achievements: Have you performed in your home country or in other countries in the past?
- Host institution: Whether the organizer/production is reliable
Common Reasons for Disapproval
- Inadequacies in the contract (amount of compensation, working conditions, etc.)
- When it is determined that the activity does not fall under the category of entertainment
- If you have violated immigration laws in the past
- When the management status of the invitee is unclear
Flow of obtaining a permit
- Confirmation of activity schedule and contract details
- Preparation and maintenance of necessary documents
- Application to the Immigration Bureau
- Examination (usually 1-3 months)
- Issuance of Certificate of Eligibility → Visa Issuance and Entry into Japan
Support by administrative scriveners
Our firm specializes in assisting with applications for Designated Activities Visas. We provide comprehensive assistance from document preparation, application representation, and immigration response. Please feel free to consult with us even if you are concerned about your future after graduation from university or if the deadline for letters of recommendation has passed.
Horiuchi Administrative Scrivener Office in Shinjuku, Tokyowill do its utmost to support your job search and residency.
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