This page lists key laws and public notices relating to immigration procedures in Japan.
Laws and Ordinances
- Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition ActExternal site (Japanese)The basic law setting out the statuses of residence and the procedures for landing and residence.
- Order for Enforcement of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition ActExternal site (Japanese)Cabinet Order setting out matters needed to implement the Act.
- Regulation for Enforcement of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition ActExternal site (Japanese)Ministerial Ordinance setting out procedural details such as application forms and required documents.
- Ministerial Ordinance on the Criteria for Landing (Article 7(1)(ii))External site (Japanese)Sets the landing criteria for each status of residence, such as education, experience and pay.
Public Notices
- Public Notice on Designated ActivitiesExternal site (Japanese)Defines the activities permitted under the "Designated Activities" status.
- Public Notice on Long-Term ResidentsExternal site (Japanese)Defines the positions that qualify for the "Long-Term Resident" status.
- IT Public NoticePublic Notice Establishing Special Provisions on the Criteria for the Status of Residence of "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services" (Ministry of Justice Public Notice No. 437 of 2013): the list of information technology examinations and qualifications accepted in place of the education or work experience requirement.
Please check e-Gov and the Immigration Services Agency website for the latest text (links open external sites in Japanese).
Immigration Services Agency: Immigration laws and regulations