In everyday conversation, people often say “work visa,” “student visa,” or “permanent resident visa.” Legally, however, a visa and a status of residence are different.
A visa is mainly for entering Japan
A visa is generally issued by a Japanese embassy or consulate outside Japan. It is used before entry and does not itself define all of the activities you may carry out after arriving in Japan.
Your status of residence controls what you can do in Japan
When you receive landing permission, you are given a status of residence such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Specified Skilled Worker, Student, Dependent, or Permanent Resident. Your permitted activities and period of stay depend on that status.
For example, when someone changes jobs in Japan, the relevant procedures are usually a notification, renewal, or change of status of residence rather than a “visa change.”
Using the word “visa” casually is fine
The important point for actual procedures is to know exactly what is written in the “Status of Residence” and “Period of Stay” fields on your residence card.
As of October 2026. Sources: Ministry of Foreign Affairs — VISA / Immigration Services Agency — Status of Residence
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