Japan Announces Updated Requirements for Category 3 and 4 Applicants

Key Point  

• Japan will introduce new documentation and CEFR B2‑equivalent language requirements for certain Category 3 and 4 applicants beginning April 15, 2026. 

Document and Language Requirements  

Japan issued new language and documentation requirements for Category 3 and Category 4 applicants under the Intra‑Company Transferee (ICT) category submitted on or after April 15, 2026.  

Language Requirements  

Applicants engaged in interpersonal work requiring language skills must now demonstrate CEFR B2‑equivalent proficiency in the relevant language. 

Officials will consider applicants to meet CEFR B2 (Japanese) if they satisfy one of the following: 

• JLPT N2 or higher 
• BJT score 400+ 
• 20+ years of residence in Japan as a mid‑ to long‑term resident 
• Graduation from a Japanese university, or completion of a specialized/advanced course at a Japanese technical college or vocational school 
• Completion of compulsory education in Japan and graduation from a Japanese high school 

This requirement applies to Category 3 and 4 applicants who are overseas and applying for roles that require Japanese language skills. 

Documentation Requirements  

Officials have also updated the required document lists for Certificate of Eligibility, change of status and renewal applications. New materials include: 

• Declaration form regarding the representative of the affiliated organization 
• Expanded corporate evidence, such as: 
  • Proof of the relationship between the overseas and Japan entities
  • Documentation confirming the existence and business activities of the overseas entity 
  • Proof of the Japanese worksite (e.g., office photos, floor plans, registration documents) 
• Financial and operational documents, including: 
  • Most recent fiscal year financial statements 
  • Business plans for new entities 
  • Alternative payroll/tax documentation when statutory withholding records cannot be provided 

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