When a foreign national decides to come to Japan—or continue living here—one government agency becomes essential: the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA), commonly called “Immigration” or “Nyukan.（入管）”
If you have ever talked about visas or residence status, you have probably heard the word “ Immigration.” However, many people do not fully understand how the system is structured or what role each office plays. This lack of understanding can lead to extra work, delays, or avoidable problems.
This article gives a clear, practical explanation of how the Immigration Services Agency is organized and what roles it performs.
Who This Article Is For
- Foreign nationals coming to Japan for the first time
- HR staff or employers hiring foreign workers for the first time
- Foreign residents already living in Japan and their family members
What Is the Immigration Services Agency (ISA)?
An agency that centrally manages entry, stay, and departure of foreign nationals
The Immigration Services Agency, an external bureau of the Ministry of Justice, manages everything from a foreign national’s entry into Japan to residence procedures and departure. This is carried out through regional immigration bureaus located across the country.
Difference from the Former Immigration Bureau
Japan’s immigration administration was reorganized in 2019 under a major amendment to the Immigration Control Act.
The former Immigration Bureau—previously an internal department of the Ministry of Justice—was upgraded to the Immigration Services Agency, an external bureau.
This change strengthened the system for residence support and the humane treatment of foreign nationals, in addition to traditional immigration control.
Relationship with the Ministry of Justice and Jurisdiction Structure
The ISA operates under the Ministry of Justice.
Regional Immigration Bureaus across Japan are part of the ISA and conduct examinations and procedures based on the applicant’s location.
How the Immigration System Is Structured Nationwide
Main Regional Immigration Bureaus (Tokyo, Osaka, and others)
There are eight main Regional Immigration Bureaus located in:
Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Sendai, Hiroshima, and Takamatsu.
These bureaus play a central role in reviewing residence status (visa) applications.
Branch Offices and Local Offices
In addition to the eight regional bureaus, there are:
- 7 branch offices
- 61 local immigration offices
These offices accept applications and provide consultations, making it easier for residents to submit documents near their home.
How to Find Your Correct Immigration Office
Your responsible immigration office depends on your place of residence.
You can check the jurisdiction list on the ISA’s official website.
For Certificate of Eligibility (COE) applications filed by companies inviting workers from overseas, it may be possible to apply at the office having jurisdiction over the employer’s location, provided legal requirements and jurisdictional conditions are met.
Where Are Visa Applications Examined?
Departments in Charge and Examination Flow
After an application is submitted, staff first check the documents for completeness.
Then, an immigration officer at the Regional Immigration Bureau examines the content.
If necessary, the bureau consults the ISA headquarters or other related agencies before issuing a final decision.
Internal Processing After Submission
The officer reviews:
- The applicant’s background
- The appropriateness of the activities in Japan
- The validity of the employment contract or study plan
If anything is unclear, additional documents may be requested.
Average Examination Period and Important Points
Processing times vary depending on the application type and season, but generally take 1 to 3 months.
Submitting accurate and complete documents early helps ensure a smooth review.
Where Examinations Take Place for Online Applications
Applications can also be submitted through the online system.
The system automatically assigns the correct Regional Immigration Bureau based on the applicant’s registered (or planned) address.
Only the regional bureau is displayed—local offices are not shown even if they are involved in the actual review.
Tips for Smooth Applications and Examinations
Differences Depending on Which Regional Bureau Handles Your Case
You cannot freely choose your bureau; the application must be filed with the office that has jurisdiction over your residence.
However, for COE applications from overseas, you may apply at the bureau with jurisdiction over the employer’s location when legally permitted.
Because congestion levels differ by bureau, processing times can vary.
When possible, it may be beneficial to select a bureau known for faster reviews.
Benefits of Working with a Certified Immigration Specialist (Gyoseishoshi)
A gyoseishoshi with immigration expertise can:
- Prepare documents with accuracy and consistency
- Anticipate the perspective of the immigration officer
- Provide insight into typical processing times based on other cases
This helps applicants avoid delays and unnecessary complications.
Inquiries During Examination and What You Can Expect
Processing status is not disclosed individually.
Even if you ask, immigration authorities can only answer: “Your application is under review.”
However, immigration professionals often know the typical processing period for similar cases.
If you are concerned, consult your representative for general timelines.
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