work
Journalist
For foreign correspondents and reporters working for overseas media organizations in Japan.
Duration & Rights
Period of Stay:
1, 3 or 5 years (renewable)
Work Rights:
News gathering and reporting activities for the contracted foreign media. (Not allowed to take unrelated jobs.)
Processing Time:
1-2 months
Quick Stats
Difficulty
2/5
Popularity
1/5
Requirements
- Employment or contract with a foreign media outlet (newspaper, TV, magazine, etc.)
- Assignment or intent to engage in news reporting in Japan
- Relevant experience or credentials in journalism
Key Documents
- Letter from employer outlining assignment in Japan
- Press ID or credentials
- Past articles or evidence of journalistic work
FAQs
Can I work for a Japanese media company on a Journalist visa?
No, this status is for foreign media correspondents. Working for Japanese media would require a regular work visa (e.g., Engineer/Specialist) through that company.
Does this visa allow freelance work?
It can, if you are a freelancer stringing for foreign outlets. You’d need to show a pattern of contracts or assignments for non-Japanese media to qualify.
Upgrade Paths
- Permanent Resident (after long-term stay)
- Change to another work visa if leaving journalism