[2025 Edition] Entertainment Visa Application Guide for Employers
Last Updated:
- Overview of the Entertainment Visa
- Definition and Scope
- New Visa Categories (Effective August 1, 2023)
- Screening and Evaluation Criteria
- Key Considerations for Employers
- Required Documentation (Effective August 1, 2023)
- Four Main Visa Categories
- Case Examples
- Entertainment Visa Q&A
- What are common reasons for rejection?
- Can multiple performers be invited under one application?
- Duration of stay and renewal options
- Permission to perform at other venues or media appearances
- Inviting a model for a promotional event without compensation
- Eligibility of non-award-winning performers (e.g., hula dancer)
- Application Process and Screening Timeline
- Important Notes for Employers
- Why Choose ACROSEED
- Service Fees
1. Overview of the Entertainment Visa
1. Definition and Scope
The Entertainment Visa is a status of residence required for foreign performers, such as models, singers, actors, dancers, artists, and professional athletes, when engaging in concerts, sports competitions, promotional events, or other entertainment-related activities in Japan.
This visa category aims to promote cultural exchange, enhance international understanding, and support the advancement of Japan’s cultural and sports industries.
Activities include performances, concerts, entertainment shows, sporting events, or other artistic activities—excluding business management activities under the “Business Manager” visa category.
Examples include inviting a foreign singer for a concert in Japan or athletes competing for remuneration. The visa also applies to essential support staff such as managers, stage technicians, and sports trainers directly involved in these events.
Other qualifying activities include commercial filming, TV appearances, movie production, photography, and music recording. Even when contracts are concluded outside Japan, foreign teams filming or recording in Japan are required to obtain this visa. The permitted period of stay may be 3 years, 1 year, 6 months, 3 months, or 30 days.
Whether certain artistic activities in Japan constitute “compensated” work can be complex, and disputes are not uncommon. Employers should exercise caution and confirm legal compliance in advance.
Note: As of August 1, 2023, the Ministerial Ordinance on Landing Criteria for Entertainment visas was revised. Categories 1–4 were introduced with relaxed conditions for certain activities. Please refer to the link below for details.
Relaxation of Entertainment Visa Requirements
Previously, strict conditions applied to performances such as plays, concerts, or dance shows. The recent revision significantly relaxed requirements, particularly for former Category 1 and 2 visas.
2. New Visa Categories (Effective August 1, 2023)
Following the May 2023 legal amendment, Entertainment Visas have been reorganized into four distinct categories, clarifying eligibility and compliance requirements for employers.
Category 1
Category 1 consists of three subcategories: (i), (ro), and (ha).
(i) Activities under contract with a Japanese organization meeting the following:
1. Employs a manager with at least three years’ experience managing foreign entertainers.
2. Has no involvement in human trafficking, criminal convictions under the Anti-Prostitution Act, or ties to organized crime.
3. Has fully paid foreign entertainers under past contracts within the last three years.
4. Demonstrates capability to properly manage foreign entertainment activities in Japan.
This subcategory allows trusted organizations with a proven track record to benefit from relaxed requirements.
Facilities excluded under the Businesses Affecting Public Morals Regulation Act (Fueiho) include:
- Cabarets, tea houses, and restaurants offering customer entertainment with food or drinks.
- Cafés and bars with lighting levels below 10 lux, as regulated by the National Public Safety Commission.
- Small enclosed establishments (5 m² or less) restricting outside visibility.
(ro) Activities qualifying under the following:
1. Events hosted by national or local governments, or schools under the School Education Act.
2. Events funded by Japanese government entities.
3. Events held at foreign-themed amusement parks with a site area over 100,000 m².
4. Events at facilities without food/drink sales in audience areas, no customer entertainment, and a minimum seating capacity of 100, or nonprofit venues.
5. Engagements paying at least JPY 500,000 per day for up to 30 days.
This subcategory reduces compliance risks and simplifies entry for high-value or government-supported events.
(ha) Activities not covered under (i) or (ro)
Applications under this subcategory remain subject to the stricter pre-revision requirements.
Category 2 (Former Category 3)
Covers activities beyond live entertainment, such as professional sports, competitions, or circus performances.
Category 3 (Former Category 4)
Covers artistic activities other than live performances, including:
a. Product or business promotion.
b. TV or film production, including cable broadcasts.
c. Commercial photography.
d. Audio or video recording for commercial use.
3. Screening Criteria for the Entertainment Visa
(1) For applicants engaging in theatrical performances, shows, singing, dancing, or musical acts (except as noted in (2) below), the following requirements must be met unless the applicant (or group collectively) will receive at least JPY 5,000,000 per day:
Applicant Requirements
a. Completed at least two years of relevant study at a recognized foreign educational institution.
b. Possess at least two years of relevant professional experience overseas.
Hosting Organization Requirements
The hosting organization must have a formal contract with the applicant specifying compensation of at least JPY 200,000 per month. Exception: Contracts with restaurants primarily serving foreign cuisine where performers provide music/dance, with compensation of at least JPY 200,000 per month.
a. Employs a manager with at least three years’ experience managing foreign entertainers.
b. Employs at least five full-time staff.
c. Neither management nor staff meet the following disqualification criteria: involvement in human trafficking, immigration violations within the past five years, document forgery for visa purposes, convictions under the Anti-Prostitution Act within five years, or affiliation with organized crime groups.
d. Has fully paid all compensation owed to foreign entertainers in the past three years.
Facility Requirements
a. Must be open to the general public for foreign entertainment.
b. If subject to Fueiho regulations, must employ at least five dedicated guest service staff, ensuring entertainers on Entertainment status do not engage in customer service.
c. Stage area of at least 13 m².
d. Dressing room of at least 9 m² (plus 1.6 m² per person above five performers).
e. Employs at least five staff.
f. Facility managers and staff must meet the same disqualification criteria as hosting organizations.
(2) Exceptions apply to events hosted by national or local governments, government-funded facilities, large-scale theme parks, nonprofit venues or facilities with 100+ seats and no food/drink sales or customer entertainment, or short-term engagements paying at least JPY 500,000/day for up to 15 days.
(3) For non-theatrical entertainment (e.g., sports or competitions), compensation must be equivalent to or higher than that received by Japanese performers.
(4) For other artistic activities (e.g., promotions, broadcasting, photography, or recording), the same pay-equity requirement applies.
4. Key Considerations for Entertainment Visa Applications
1. The term “entertainment-related activities” includes: - Participation in theatrical performances, variety shows, concerts, dance acts, sports competitions, circus performances, or similar staged events; - Performing arts activities essential to organizing entertainment without appearing on stage; and - Roles as essential support staff required for performers to carry out entertainment activities.
a. “Entertainment” refers to performing or presenting shows, concerts, sports, or other staged events to the public. This includes singers and entertainers at bars, cabarets, or nightclubs.
b. “Performing arts activities essential to entertainment” include non-stage roles such as choreographers or directors.
c. “Essential support staff” includes managers, stage lighting technicians, circus animal handlers, or sports trainers.
d. Even artistic activities, if conducted in a performance format (e.g., public orchestra performances), are classified under the Entertainment Visa rather than the Artist Visa, as the purpose is to perform for an audience.
2. “Other artistic activities” are those not performed in an entertainment format. Under the Immigration Control Act, this includes promotional work, TV or film production (including cable broadcasts), commercial photography, and professional audio/video recording.
3. These also cover indispensable support roles such as cameramen, sound engineers, or film directors. Even without foreign performers, if the role can be independently recognized (e.g., a designer at a fashion show), it may still fall under Entertainment Visa activities.
5. Required Documents for Entertainment Visa Applications (Effective August 1, 2023)
Because requirements may change with legal revisions, always verify the latest information on the Immigration Services Agency website.
The following links provide official document lists reflecting the August 1, 2023 criteria:
Application for Certificate of Eligibility (Entertainment Visa)
・Required Documents (Category 1 – i) – Immigration Services Agency
・Required Documents (Category 1 – ro) – Immigration Services Agency
・Required Documents (Category 1 – ha) – Immigration Services Agency
・Required Documents (Category 2) – Immigration Services Agency
・Required Documents (Category 3) – Immigration Services Agency
Application for Extension of Period of Stay (Entertainment Visa)
・Required Documents (General) – Immigration Services Agency
These lists cover the minimum requirements. Additional documents may be requested depending on the case, and submission does not guarantee approval. Employers are strongly advised to consult with a qualified immigration professional if uncertain about requirements.
6. Four Main Types of Entertainment Visa Cases
Entertainment Visa applications typically fall into four categories. Determining the correct category at the outset is essential:
1. Applicants engaging in theatrical performances (theater, variety shows, singing, dancing, musical acts)
2. Applicants engaged in other entertainment-related performances
3. Applicants engaged in entertainment activities beyond theatrical performances
4. Applicants engaged in artistic activities not directly linked to entertainment events
Screening by the Immigration Services Agency generally takes at least one month. Failure to plan applications in reverse from the event date may result in delayed performer arrival. Employers should allow sufficient lead time to avoid disruptions to event schedules.
2. Examples of Entertainment Visa Applications
ACROSEED processes approximately 3,000–4,000 visa applications annually, including a significant number of Entertainment Visa cases. Examples include:
2. Invitation of a female soccer player to participate in activities in Japan.
3. Invitation of a professional skater to compete in Japan.
4. Invitation of an English-language commentator for a martial arts event.
5. Invitation of conductors and musicians for concerts in Japan.
6. Invitation of actors, cameramen, and lighting staff for a film production.
7. Invitation of directors and crews for documentary filming.
8. Invitation of international talents for the launch of a global brand in Japan.
We recommend using ACROSEED’s professional visa support services in the following scenarios:
Your company usually manages visas internally, but current capacity is insufficient and professional assistance is required.
The most frequent cases involve corporations inviting artists through event companies or internal HR departments. For major events such as world tours by renowned singers, staff numbers can exceed 100. It is often impractical for one HR manager to handle all applications while managing regular duties. Missing or incomplete documents can lead to repeated requests and significant delays.
With deep expertise and ISO27001-certified information security, ACROSEED ensures efficient handling of even large-scale cases. Our licensed immigration specialists provide dependable outsourcing, even during peak event seasons.
Your organization has no prior experience inviting foreign performers and wishes to outsource only the visa process.
For smaller festivals or local events inviting just a few foreign artists, organizers may be unfamiliar with immigration law. ACROSEED works alongside HR teams and organizers to design application schedules and documentation, ensuring smooth entry of performers.
Our corporate philosophy is to act as a “trusted partner” who delivers peace of mind while enabling successful events.
Performance dates are approaching due to sudden schedule changes, requiring immediate specialist intervention.
One of the most critical challenges is when little time remains before the performance date. ACROSEED coordinates directly with the Immigration Services Agency, issues instructions to overseas parties, and expedites documentation and submissions. While the final decision rests with the Immigration Services Agency, we prioritize urgent cases for the best possible outcome.
In rare cases, applications may not be feasible within the timeframe. However, given that even one day can be decisive in Entertainment Visa cases, we encourage HR managers to contact us immediately. Consultations are free of charge.
3. Entertainment Visa Q&A
- What are the main reasons an Entertainment Visa application might be denied?
- The most frequent reasons include:
① Unclear or non-qualifying activity descriptions
② Incomplete, inconsistent, or vague contracts and schedules
③ Insufficient proof of the applicant’s professional background or experience
④ Lack of financial credibility or poor compliance record of the sponsoring organization
For example, extremely low compensation, unclear event dates or venues, or limited past experience by the organizer may cast doubt on the legitimacy of the activities, increasing the risk of refusal. Consistency in the application package and persuasive supporting documentation are essential.
Engaging an experienced immigration professional significantly improves the chances of approval.
- Is it possible to invite multiple performers under a single application?
- Yes. Applications can cover groups or ensembles. However, each individual performer will be screened separately, and complete documentation must be submitted for every member.
For example, when inviting a band, dance troupe, or circus team, you must include:
① CVs and professional records for each member
② Group photos or performance videos
③ Contracts specifying each member’s role and compensationAdditionally, provide detailed explanations of the group’s structure and role distribution. Note that larger groups increase the host organization’s responsibility for accommodation, transportation, and supervision during the stay in Japan.
- What is the duration of an Entertainment Visa? Can it be extended?
- The permitted stay is determined by the contract and nature of the activities. Possible durations include 15 days, 30 days, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, or 3 years.
Short-term engagements (e.g., concerts or promotional events) are often 30 days or less, while professional athletes or long-term performance contracts may qualify for 1–3 years.
Extensions (renewals) are possible if the same activities continue. Updated contracts, schedules, and proof of prior payments are required. Approval depends on the applicant’s compliance history and activity records, so maintaining accurate reports and documentation is essential.
- Can a foreign national with an Entertainment Visa perform at other events or appear on TV programs?
- Activities are limited to the contracts and venues approved at the time of application. Additional events, concerts, or media appearances (TV, radio, etc.) require prior notification or approval from the Immigration Services Agency.
Unauthorized activities are treated as “unauthorized work” and may result in visa cancellation or deportation. If additional appearances are planned, contracts and schedules must be submitted in advance.
Working with a professional visa agent helps ensure compliance and protects your organization from legal risk.
- [Entertainment Visa vs. Temporary Visitor Visa]
We are inviting an overseas model for a three-day promotional event. Should we apply for an Entertainment Visa or a Temporary Visitor Visa? We understand that compensation requires an Entertainment Visa, while unpaid activities may use a Temporary Visitor Visa. If the payment is made outside Japan, would a Temporary Visitor Visa still be acceptable? - [Performer Credentials for an Entertainment Visa]
A Hawaiian hula dancer wishes to visit Japan for promotional activities. She is locally known but has no major competition awards and only limited teaching experience. Would she qualify for an Entertainment Visa? - [Changing from Student Visa to Entertainment Visa]
Our Tokyo-based modeling agency scouted an Italian student with great potential. She is currently on a Student Visa, which restricts her ability to work. Can she change her status to Entertainment Visa if she leaves school? - [Entertainment Visa vs. Designated Activities Visa]
We operate a sports club team. Although the foreign player we plan to hire is not a professional, we intend to have them participate in matches for promotional purposes. Can we still apply under the Entertainment Visa category? - [Scope of Eligibility for Entertainment Visa]
We are contracting a professional golfer to join the Japan tour and would like their caddie to accompany them. Would both be covered under the Entertainment Visa? - [Compensation Structure for Entertainment Visa]
We are contracting an overseas professional golfer. The visa requires compensation equal to or greater than that of a Japanese national. In this case, compensation will be prize-based rather than a fixed salary. Is this acceptable? - [Relaxation of Entertainment Visa Requirements]
We understand that as of August 1, 2023, the Ministerial Ordinance on Entertainment Visa Categories 1–4 was revised. What changes have been introduced?
4. Entertainment Visa Application Process / Processing Times
1. Application Process
The process for inviting a foreign performer is as follows:
-
1
- Initial Consultation
- We assess whether your planned event qualifies for an Entertainment Visa and confirm scheduling feasibility. Consultations are available via phone, email, or online (Zoom, Teams, Line, WeChat), as well as in person. Please contact us first by phone or email.
-
2
- Gathering Application Materials
- ・Direct communication with the invited performer or staff (as requested)
・Provision of required document lists and Q&A support
-
3
- Preparing Application Documents
- ・Our licensed immigration specialists prepare the complete application
・Submission arranged with the Immigration Services Agency (regional offices such as Nagoya or Osaka also supported)
-
4
- Submitting the Application
- Our specialists file the application on your behalf with the Immigration Services Agency. (Standard processing time: approximately 1–3 months)
-
5
- Receiving the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Once approved, the Immigration Services Agency issues the COE and delivers it to ACROSEED.
-
6
- Sending the COE to the Performer
- The COE is sent via EMS or similar courier to the performer overseas.
-
7
-
8
- Entering Japan
- Upon arrival, the performer presents the visa at immigration control and is granted the approved status of residence. Note: The COE is valid for 90 days from issuance. If entry is not made within that period, the COE will expire.
2. Processing Times (as of March 2025)
| COE Application | Renewal Application | Status Change Application |
|---|---|---|
| 14.7 days | 28.7 days | 19.7 days |
5. Important Considerations for Entertainment Visa Applications
1. Timing of the Application
Obtaining a COE typically requires about one month of internal review by the Immigration Services Agency.
However, preparing supporting documents often takes additional time. We recommend initiating your request at least 2–3 months before the planned entry date.
2. Identifying the Hosting Organization
Entertainment contracts often involve multiple companies (e.g., promoter, event agency, sponsor). For immigration purposes, only one company can act as the official hosting organization.
The designated host company is responsible for managing the foreign national’s activities and working conditions from arrival to departure. This is reviewed during the screening process.
Since the entertainment contract must be submitted to the Immigration Services Agency, unclear or conflicting responsibilities may require renegotiation, causing delays. Early consultation with a professional is strongly advised.
3. Clarifying Contract Details
When applying for an Entertainment Visa, contracts with all relevant parties must clearly specify roles, compensation, and relationships. These must be finalized before submission.
We recommend completing and preparing contracts for submission at least 2–3 months prior to the event.
6. Benefits of Choosing ACROSEED
- Established in 1986, with an industry-leading record of over 40,000 visa applications
- Trusted by more than 1,000 corporate clients
- No travel expenses – nationwide service at a flat rate
- Services available in English and Chinese
- ISO 27001 certified – ensuring strict compliance
40,000 Visa Applications Since 1986 – One of Japan’s Most Experienced Providers
ACROSEED has specialized in immigration services since 1990, when legal reforms allowed administrative scriveners to handle immigration procedures. As of March 2025, we have processed over 40,000 visa applications.
We currently handle 3,000–4,000 visa cases annually, with immigration visits twice a week to stay current on screening trends and regulation changes.
By choosing ACROSEED, you benefit from the most up-to-date insights and extensive hands-on experience in the industry.
Our Track Record
ACROSEED’s track record in corporate services, publications, media coverage, and seminars
Trusted by Over 1,000 Corporate Clients
ACROSEED’s dedicated corporate team handles all visa-related and licensing procedures associated with foreign employee hiring.
We offer two distinct service types:
・As a welfare benefit service for foreign employees
We customize our support based on your company’s structure, challenges, and employment needs, referencing real-world examples.
Our services are trusted by a wide range of clients, from publicly listed corporations to small and mid-sized businesses.
Case Studies
We present case studies of companies that actively promote the employment of foreign nationals by utilizing ACROSEED’s services.
Nationwide Flat-Rate Service with No Travel Costs
Our office is based in Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, but we serve immigration offices across Japan with no additional travel costs.
We also offer online consultations via Zoom or Skype, allowing face-to-face communication from any location.
English and Chinese Language Support
Our bilingual staff can communicate directly with foreign employees in English or Chinese.
We assist with application explanations, status tracking, and employee coordination — reducing the burden on HR teams and improving the applicant experience.
ISO 27001 Certified for Information Security Compliance
ISO 27001 is the international standard for information security management (ISMS).
ACROSEED was an early adopter of this certification in our field, demonstrating our commitment to secure and compliant client service.
This gives even highly regulated, publicly listed companies the confidence to trust us as their immigration partner.
7. Entertainment Visa Application Service Fees
・Fees vary depending on the scope of services requested, application complexity, and workload. We offer a free initial consultation and quotation—please feel free to contact us.
＊ACROSEED provides nationwide support across Japan.
| Application for Certificate of Eligibility (Inviting from Overseas) |
Approx. JPY 120,000 |
|---|
If your company is considering continuous outsourcing of visa and immigration procedures, please see the following page for our cost-efficient corporate service plans:
Outsource Visa Applications & Residence Status Management
From hiring to retirement, ACROSEED’s team of immigration specialists provides comprehensive HR support for managing foreign employees. We deliver tailored solutions designed to address your company’s specific needs and compliance obligations.
Why Leading Corporations Choose ACROSEED
Corporate Case Studies
Our Service Process
Contact / Free Consultation
Since our founding in 1986, ACROSEED has specialized in immigration and visa support for foreign nationals, serving corporations across industries for nearly 40 years.
Consultations are available by phone, email, online meeting, or at our Tokyo office. English-language support is also available for HR professionals of global companies.
