Japan has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for Bangladeshis seeking higher education, employment or long-term settlement, driven by its advanced economy, growing demand for skilled workers and globally recognised education system.
With an ageing population and declining birth rate, Japan is increasingly relying on foreign workers across various sectors.
According to the latest figures from the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), the country hosted 408,069 international students as of May 1, 2025, up 21.2% from a year earlier.
Meanwhile, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) reported that the number of foreign workers reached 2.57 million by October 2025, an 11.7% year-on-year increase.
However, Japan offers around 30 different visa categories, and applicants must choose the one that matches their purpose of travel.
Working visas: For employment in Japan, including Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Skilled Labor, Intra-company Transferee, Business Manager, Highly Skilled Professional and Specified Skilled Worker (SSW). Most require relevant qualifications, work experience and, in some cases, Japanese language proficiency.
Student visa: For university, vocational school or Japanese language study. Students may work part-time with immigration approval.
Trainee and Technical Intern visas: Designed for skills training and practical work experience in Japan.
Dependent visa: Available to spouses and children of eligible foreign residents. Limited part-time work is allowed with permission.
Temporary Visitor visa: For tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences and short-term stays. Employment is prohibited.
Family-related visas: Issued to spouses, children and family members of Japanese citizens or permanent residents, generally with fewer employment restrictions.
Most Japanese visas require sponsorship from an employer, educational institution or host organisation in Japan. After securing admission or a job offer, applicants must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from Japan’s immigration authorities before submitting a visa application to a Japanese embassy or consulate.
Applicants can hold only one visa status at a time, even if they qualify for multiple categories.
Under rules effective July 1, 2026, Japan has increased visa fees to 15,000 yen for a single-entry visa, 30,000 yen for a multiple-entry visa and 700 yen for a transit visa.