Visas and residence status
Where do I start with moving to Japan?
Start with your reason for moving: study, work, joining family, remote work or running a business. Then check which status of residence (在留資格) covers that activity and whether you meet its requirements.
Build a budget for housing, the first few months and any tuition fees. Ask your school, employer or family sponsor about the documents you need; many applications begin with a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Once your plans are confirmed, organise your first weeks in Japan, including address registration and health insurance. My Japan Plan helps you turn these preparations into a checklist.
What may vary
This is a planning order, not an eligibility check. Whether you qualify depends on your nationality, the status of residence and the specific school, employer or family sponsor, and some pathways, such as remote work or business, have income or capital thresholds that not everyone meets.
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