Frequently Asked Questions about Applying for Artist Visa in Japan

Question 1

I am a freelance illustrator originally from the Czech Republic. I have been working in this industry since 2010 and am very interested in relocating to Kyoto, Japan. I previously consulted with another immigration lawyer who told me that a contract with a Japanese client is essential for applying for an Artist Visa. Since that is not possible at this time, I am looking for another solution.

Answer1

A contract with a Japanese client is not always required for an Artist Visa application. However, you must convincingly explain to the Immigration Bureau why you wish to pursue artistic activities in Japan despite not having a client there. Please tell me why you need to work in Japan. Of course, when applying for an Artist Visa, you must provide proof of high-level achievements, including awards received overseas.

Question 2

I am a professional dancer, flamenco dancer, and teacher/choreographer of Spanish dance and flamenco dance. I hold degrees from several conservatories in Spain and have experience both domestically and internationally. I saw on your company’s website that you assist with obtaining Artist Visas. We wish to relocate to Japan and are actively seeking work as dancers and teachers, but we have not been able to find anyone to handle the visa procedures for us. Could you assist us?

Answer 2

We can assist with visa procedures. However, you must first find a partner or school in Japan willing to cooperate.
Under Japanese immigration law, the “Artist Visa” status does not necessarily require a fixed employer. However, in practice, for dancers and dance instructors, the Immigration Bureau typically requires the following: A clear and realistic plan for artistic activities in Japan, along with a specific contract or agreement with a Japanese organization (e.g., dance school, studio, production company, theater, cultural center, festival, etc.).

For painters and other visual artists, it may be easier to claim independent activity.
However, for flamenco dancers and instructors, obtaining an Artist Visa is usually difficult unless there is at least one stable “host” within Japan (e.g., a school where they teach regularly + other performance contracts). If also working as a choreographer, the presence of a Japanese partner/client (company, school, production company, etc.) commissioning work and signing a contract remains crucial.

Question 3

As a professional music composer and sound designer, I create music for film, television programs, and video game trailers. I reside in the United States and work remotely with music-focused companies and as a freelancer. My music and sound design have been featured in numerous major international campaigns. Am I eligible for an Artist Visa? How should I proceed with the application?

Answer 3

If you are not currently residing in Japan, you will generally need a contract with a Japanese organization to engage in artistic activities. You will also need documents issued by that organization proving the nature of your activities, their duration, your status, and your compensation.
Do you have a sponsoring company in Japan? If not, we recommend finding one first.
However, in reality, it is not impossible for non-residents to obtain this Artist Visa without a Japanese sponsor. If you can come to Japan for a short period to apply and can explain the necessity of obtaining the visa in Japan and the reason for your stay, there are ways to apply. We have handled multiple such cases.

Question 4

According to your site, music teachers can obtain an Artist visa. I am a pianist specializing in Japanese pop music and wish to teach piano to students in Japan. The students would be my employers. Is it possible to collect letters from potential students expressing their desire for me to be their teacher and use these as evidence for the visa application? For example, I heard that if I secure contracts with 30 students individually or obtain documents proving potential income, and demonstrate sufficient income, obtaining the visa should be possible.

Answer 4

To apply for an Artist visa as an instructor rather than a creative artist, you must have a contract with a piano studio in Japan. Without such a contract, you cannot apply for an Artist Visa. First, establish a contract with a piano studio in Japan and confirm whether they can provide visa support.

Question 5

I am the author of a popular manga series. I have contracts with three publishers, all of which are companies based outside of Japan. I am currently residing in Japan on a student visa and wish to switch to an Artist Visa. I would like to know if I am eligible to apply for an Artist visa.

Answer 5

Obtaining an Artist Visa as a manga artist typically requires a contract with a Japanese publisher. A contract with an overseas publisher alone often fails to demonstrate a sufficient need to be in Japan. Please clearly state your reasons for wanting to stay in Japan. Doing so may make your application possible.

Question 6

I am currently residing in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa. I have received a job offer from a Japanese mobile game company to work as an illustrator or designer at a monthly salary of ¥300,000. The company requires me to obtain a work visa. However, the fact that I do not hold a bachelor’s degree is the issue. After consulting with multiple legal experts, the “International Services” visa was recommended as the most realistic option. Surprisingly, none of the legal experts I consulted recommended an Artist Visa, despite my extensive full-time art experience, contracts with major clients, and notable upcoming achievements like exhibitions and game publications. I don’t understand why. Considering my situation, which visa option would you recommend?

Answer 6

Regarding eligibility for the Artist Visa, it is essential to be a nationally or internationally renowned artist. If you possess a significant track record, achievements, or awards, you are likely to qualify.

Regarding eligibility for the “International Services” visa, you must have at least three years of design work experience relevant to the design work you plan to undertake. This must be substantiated by a certificate from your previous employer.
The “Specialist in Humanities” visa category is considered unlikely given your educational background, which does not include a university degree.

Question 7

Could you please provide more details about the Artist Visa? What are the necessary requirements and qualifications for applying as an individual painter? How many years’ worth of awards and exhibition history should be demonstrated? Or, what kind of proof would increase the likelihood of qualifying?

Answer 7

It is possible to apply as an individual artist, but you must explain why you wish to pursue your artistic activities in Japan rather than another country.
Simply stating that you wish to live in Japan is insufficient. You must clearly state the reason why you can only pursue your artistic activities in Japan.
Having clients within Japan is a valid reason. In that case, you must submit evidence of contracts with Japanese clients.

Question 8

Hello, I would like to inquire about the Artist Visa. I am a renowned bonsai artist from France and wish to return to Japan to continue my work. My purpose for relocating to Japan is to deepen my involvement with the bonsai community, continue creating bonsai, and further promote this art globally. How likely is it that I could obtain an Artist Visa?

Answer 8

Based on the information you provided, the likelihood of a successful visa application appears high. Your extensive experience, established reputation, and contributions to the bonsai community are all significant factors demonstrating your eligibility. Additionally, income in Japan is a crucial element of the application. Do you create and sell bonsai as works of art? Please provide details regarding your projected income in Japan.
Furthermore, it is possible to apply even without a sponsor in Japan. In that case, as a technical requirement, you yourself must physically visit Japan for a short period. You must be physically present in Japan for me to conduct an interview and submit the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) application.

Question 9

I work as a freelance talent manager in the American music industry. Since most of my work can be done remotely, I don’t need to be based in Los Angeles and can fly to wherever is necessary as needed. Moving forward, I would like to apply for an Artist Visa to strengthen my relationship with the Japanese music industry, the world’s second-largest music market.

Answer 9

If you are an artist yourself, you may be eligible for an Artist Visa. However, if you are performing artist management duties, you are not eligible.
If you are employed by a Japanese agency or company and perform specialized work locally for that company, you may be eligible to apply for a work visa other than an Artist Visa.

Question 10

I am inquiring about applying for an Artist Visa in Japan. I am currently working in the United States on an O1 visa as a production designer for films and commercials. I would like to ask about the required documents for this visa application and the associated visa fees.

Answer 10

I understand you wish to apply for an Artist Visa. Based on your background and considering your current O1 visa status in the U.S., I believe you have a high likelihood of obtaining a Japanese Artist Visa.

However, if you do not have a Japanese company affiliated with you, you will need to visit Japan briefly for the application process. During this visit, you will apply for a Certificate of Eligibility at the Japanese Immigration Bureau. After that, I will handle all subsequent procedures on your behalf, so you can leave Japan without issue.

Question 11

I am currently working as a professional artist in a third country. I specialize in oil painting and have established my own art gallery. I am currently selling my work in European countries and participating in numerous exhibitions and art shows held across Europe. I would greatly appreciate guidance on the procedures for obtaining an Artist Visa (qualification requirements, necessary documents, steps I can take immediately, etc.).

Answer 11

In your case, an Artist Visa for Japan is a viable option. The key factor for an Artist Visa is whether you have a contract with a Japanese gallery or organization. Is there a gallery or company in Japan managing the sale of your paintings? Is it possible to sign a contract with that entity? While not mandatory, such a contract significantly impacts the visa application outcome.

Even without a contracted agency in Japan, you can still apply for an Artist Visa. In that case, it becomes crucial to submit documentation supporting your reasons for artistic activities in Japan, your income plan through those activities, and evidence substantiating these plans.

Furthermore, the most crucial requirement is proof of your artistic background. Are you currently residing in a third country and holding a visa under a category such as an Artist Visa? You may be able to reuse the documents submitted for that visa application. Additionally, please provide information about your recent artistic activities (including a portfolio of your work and a description of any awards received). Regarding income in Japan, emphasize how much you currently earn as an artist and your ability to sustain this income in Japan.

Question 12

I have a question regarding the Artist Visa. I am a stringed instrument maker. My work is considered artistic and qualifies for the Artist Visa. I have supported myself solely through stringed instrument making for over 10 years and have a substantial backlog of orders guaranteeing work for at least the next year. I wish to relocate to Japan but, before proceeding with the application, I would like to know if I meet the visa requirements, the necessary steps, and whether you can assist me.

Answer 12

Based on the information you provided (being a professional stringed instrument maker, your work being artistic, and having a steady stream of orders), you are certainly eligible to consider applying for Japan Artist Visa.

However, during the immigration process, you will need to specifically explain the following to the Immigration Bureau:

  1. Source of Income in Japan – For example, whether you plan to continue taking commissions from overseas clients, already have Japanese customers or galleries, intend to collaborate with Japanese makers/workshops, or plan to teach.
  2. Reason for Choosing Japan as a Place to Live and Create – The Immigration Bureau often wants to confirm your connection to Japan (artistic, cultural, professional, client-related).

If you could provide more details on these two points, I can clearly explain what documents are required (portfolio, contracts/orders, resume, proof of income, letters of recommendation, etc.). Of course, once your plans in Japan are finalized, I will assist you in preparing the application documents.

Question 13

I would like to ask about the Artist Visa. After obtaining an Artist Visa (having already earned a Japanese bachelor degree), is it possible to apply for permanent residency?

Answer 13

Yes, after residing in Japan for a certain period on an Artist Visa, there is a path to apply for permanent residency.

 

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