Japan Sponsoring Visa For Maid or Nanny
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Obtaining a Japan Visa for a Maid, Nanny, or Housekeeper

{The following is based on an article originally written for the newsletter of the Japan Foreign Lawyers Association (RBA)}

Background

In many countries it is not unusual for expat families (especially those with children) to have a nanny to assist with the children and a maid / housekeeper to look after the house. These personal employees will often follow the expat family when they change locations.

This situation is especially common in the Middle East and in parts of Asia.

When an expat family is posted to Japan several problems can arise. In particular, it can be difficult to obtain a Japan visa for maids, nannies, housekeepers, and other personal help.

As we will note below, the critical aspect of a visa application for domestic assistants is that anyone wishing to work in Japan as a housekeeper, nanny, etc., requires a sponsor. However, only very limited categories of foreigners are eligible to sponsor such a visa.

Basic Requirements

In order to obtain a Japan visa for a Maid, Nanny, Housekeeper, etc. there are three main requirements as follows:

  • The applicant (maid, nanny, housekeeper, etc.) requires a sponsor. That sponsor must hold one of the following three status of residence in Japan:
    • Investor / Business Manager
    • Legal / Accounting Services
    • It may also be possible for individuals holding a Diplomat Visa or Official Visa and certain members of the U.S. military to act as a sponsor. That discussion is beyond the scope of this article.)
  • The sponsor must satisfy a number of additional requirements that typically include:
    • The sponsor may be required to have at least one child under the age of 13 years of age, or
    • A spouse who is unable to assist in running the household due to illness or incapacity.
  • Finally, minimum compensation requirements need to be met.

If approved, the housekeeper will typically be given a Designated Activities Visa.

Conclusion

If you are considering sponsoring a Japan visa for a Maid, Nanny, Housekeeper, etc. it is strongly recommended that a certified immigration specialist (“gyoseishoshi”) be engaged.

Contact JAPAN VISA™ to learn how we can assist you to self-sponsor a visa in Japan.