The Japan J-Find Visa – A Complete Guide
Japan continues to actively attract global talent to support its economy and address labour shortages. In April 2023, the government introduced two new visa categories: the J-Find visa (officially the "Specified visa: Designated activities (Future creation individual)") and the J-Skip visa.
The J-Find visa specifically targets recent graduates from top global universities, allowing them to stay in Japan for up to 2 years while job hunting or preparing to start a business. As of 2026, the program remains unchanged in its core structure, with the same eligibility criteria, financial proof requirements, and maximum stay. The list of qualifying universities is updated annually based on global rankings, and the latest list (as of January 2026) includes around 100 institutions. This guide covers everything you need to know, including eligibility, benefits, application steps, and tips.
Who Is the J-Find Visa For and What Does It Allow?
The J-Find visa is ideal for recent graduates from elite universities who want to explore career opportunities or entrepreneurship in Japan without needing a job offer upfront.
Eligible applicants must have graduated from a university ranked in the top 100 of at least two of the following rankings (at the time of application):
QS World University Rankings
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings
Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai Ranking)
Japan's Ministry of Justice maintains an official list of qualifying universities (updated as of January 2026). Always check the latest version on the MOJ website before applying, as rankings shift annually.
Allowed activities include job searching, preparing to launch a business, and working part-time to support yourself.
You must switch to a work visa (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services) if you secure employment, or to a Business Manager visa if you start a company.
Important note: This visa does not allow unrestricted full-time employment. Part-time work is permitted only to supplement funds during your job hunt or startup preparations.
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all of these conditions:
Be 18 years or older.
Hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree (or equivalent) from an eligible university.
Have graduated within the past 5 years (from the date of application).
Provide proof of sufficient personal savings to support yourself in Japan (typically at least ¥200,000, though some embassies may require more; aim for ¥500,000–¥800,000 for realistic living costs).
Period of Stay
Initial visa: 6 months, 1 year, or a term set by the Minister of Justice (up to 1 year).
Extensions: Apply before expiry at a regional Immigration Services Agency bureau in Japan. Maximum total stay: 2 years (cumulative, including any prior similar programs like job-hunting designated activities).
Extensions are typically granted in 6-month or 1-year increments.
Application Process
The process can vary depending on whether you obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) first. A CoE is pre-approval from Japan's Immigration Services Agency (ISA) and often makes the visa application smoother and faster.
Many embassies prefer or require a CoE, but it's not always mandatory. Check with your local Japanese embassy/consulate.
Recommended Steps (2026):
Confirm eligibility
Verify your university is on the current MOJ list, and your graduation date qualifies.
Decide on CoE
With CoE (recommended): Apply at a regional Immigration Bureau in Japan (you can enter on a tourist visa for 90 days to do this). Submit forms and documents (refer to the ISA's J-Find page). Processing takes 1–3 months. Use a proxy like an administrative scrivener (gyōseishoshi) if needed.
Without CoE: Proceed directly to a visa application at an embassy/consulate.
Gather documents
Check the latest list on the MOFA J-Find page. Common items include:
Passport
Visa application form
Photo
Diploma and proof of graduation date
Bank statement (proof of savings)
CV/resume
Description of intended activities. Documents differ if you have a CoE.
Submit visa application
At a Japanese embassy/consulate in your country of residence. If using a CoE, note its validity period (typically 3 months) and enter Japan within it.
Enter Japan and register
Upon arrival, get your Residence Card, register at your local municipal office (ward/city hall), and enroll in National Health Insurance if staying long-term.
Key Benefits
Job hunt freely: No need for a sponsor or job offer upfront (unlike tourist visas, where job hunting is restricted).
Part-time work allowed: To cover living expenses.
Residence Card: Enables banking, renting apartments, and health insurance.
Family accompaniment: Spouse and children can join (as "Spouse or child of future creation individual").
Flexibility: Explore jobs or startups for up to 2 years, with extension options.
Pathway to longer stays: Transition to work or business visas upon success.
Potential Drawbacks and Tips
Strict eligibility: Only top universities qualify, and only recent graduates (within 5 years).
Limited funds: ¥200,000 is the minimum, but Japan's living costs (especially in Tokyo) are high budget realistically.
No Japanese language requirement, but learning some will help immensely.
Recent changes: While J-Find remains stable, note broader immigration fee increases (e.g., status changes) in 2025–2026.
Final Thoughts
The J-Find visa is a fantastic opportunity for elite graduates to experience life in Japan while building a career or business. Many have successfully transitioned to full-time roles in technology, finance, and other fields. If you qualify, it's definitely worth pursuing. You can start by checking your university on the official list and consulting your local Japanese embassy for personalized guidance.
Need help with your J-Find visa application? Feel free to reach out! Whether you have questions about eligibility, document preparation, the CoE process, or anything else, we're here to assist. → Contact us for personalized support and guidance.
Good luck on your journey to Japan!