Journalist Visa
Journalist is the status of residence for foreign nationals who engage in news gathering and other journalistic activities under a contract with a foreign news organization, such as reporters, photographers and editors for foreign newspapers, news agencies, broadcasters and magazines.
Key points
- The contract must be with a foreign news organization (those employed by Japanese media should consider Engineer / Humanities / International Services or another status)
- Freelance reporters and photographers under contract with a foreign news organization are also eligible, as well as staff dispatched by one
- Any journalistic activity is covered, including reporting, filming, writing and editing
Period of stay
5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months.
Main documents
- A document issued by the foreign news organization certifying the period of assignment, position and pay
- For freelancers, the contract with the foreign news organization and evidence of past journalistic work
- Documents outlining the news organization
For short reporting trips without pay in Japan, entry as a Temporary Visitor may be possible. The status required depends on the length of stay and the contract, so please consult us in advance. We can help you from checking the requirements to preparing the documents and filing the application.
Key points
- The contract must be with a foreign news organization (those employed by Japanese media should consider Engineer / Humanities / International Services or another status)
- Freelance reporters and photographers under contract with a foreign news organization are also eligible, as well as staff dispatched by one
- Any journalistic activity is covered, including reporting, filming, writing and editing
Period of stay
5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months.
Main documents
- A document issued by the foreign news organization certifying the period of assignment, position and pay
- For freelancers, the contract with the foreign news organization and evidence of past journalistic work
- Documents outlining the news organization
For short reporting trips without pay in Japan, entry as a Temporary Visitor may be possible. The status required depends on the length of stay and the contract, so please consult us in advance. We can help you from checking the requirements to preparing the documents and filing the application.