Entering Japan on a Temporary Visitor Visa While a COE Application Is in Process
- We are currently applying for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The applicant wishes to visit Japan on a Temporary Visitor visa in order to search for housing. Is it acceptable to enter Japan while the COE application is still pending?
- As long as the visit falls strictly within the permitted purposes and activities of a Temporary Visitor visa, there is no issue with entering Japan while a COE application is pending. Searching for accommodation is considered acceptable under this visa category. However, it must be noted that a Temporary Visitor visa does not allow any form of employment. Engaging in work activities during this period would constitute unauthorized employment and is strictly prohibited.
We recommend clearly informing the applicant that they are in the process of applying for a work-related status of residence, and that they must not engage in any work activities while in Japan under a Temporary Visitor visa.
Related Service Pages:
Temporary Visitor Visa Application
If the planned stay is up to 90 days, entry into Japan may be possible under the status of residence known as “Temporary Visitor,” commonly referred to as a tourist visa.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Application
The Certificate of Eligibility is a document confirming in advance to the Minister of Justice that the applicant’s intended activities meet the requirements for a status of residence in Japan.
Free Consultation on Hiring Foreign Employees
Since our establishment in 1986, we have been providing nearly 40 years of consulting services specializing in visa applications for companies employing foreign nationals.
Consultations are available by phone, email, online, or in person at our office. English-language support is also available.
