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Originally Posted by mangostine
But I'm wondering how exactly does the work visa system work? I live in the USA and you've said that in that case you don't have to apply for a visa?
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For a less than 90 day visit to Japan, as a tourist, with no work permitted - no, you do not have to apply for a visa. One will be granted to you upon entry to the country. For any other visa you WILL have to apply.
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And what if you currently don't have an employer?
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Then you will be unable to get a work visa. Your employer has to sponsor you.
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How long does the employer visa allow a person to live in Japan?
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Indefinitely, really. The visa itself is between 1 and 3 years... But you can continue to renew it for as long as you are employed.
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What do you have to do to get permanent residence allowed (through work, I mean.) Like is there a set amount of time you have to work?
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You must have lived in Japan for a significant period of time. There is no truly set requirement, but guidelines are generally 10+ years if you are not married to a Japanese citizen, and 5+ years if you are. It is granted at the discretion of immigration.
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In addition, if you have a masters degree from a university in USA and are pretty fluent in the Japanese language, would it be easy to find a job in Japan? For example, masters degree in economics or say you have your MD.
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As an English teacher, yes. But unless you have something to offer that makes you a better choice than a Japanese applicant with the same qualifications and native language skills, no. It would be easier than without those qualifications, of course, but that`s true most anywhere.
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And if you're not too fluent with Japanese language but you have a pretty high degree, are there any other easy-to-find options instead of teaching English?
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Not really. Most of those with good jobs in Japan that do not require Japanese language skills and that are not English teaching have come to Japan already employed - for example, transferred to Japan and working at the Japan branch of an overseas company.