What does one need to do to geta general visa? For instance, I'd very much like to attend the University of Maryland out of Yokota Air Force Base, but I don't think I can go to school AND maintain a SOFA job.

Will the college sponsor me? How does the general visa work? Forgive me if this question has been answered before - my English speaking is good but my reading is not.

Many thanks,

Deiter G.

You need to decide if you want a student visa or a working visa.
Then find a school or company that will agree to take you and then get a letter from them saying so.
Then apply for the visa

What about resident visas? I'm planning on going to school to be an english teacher (my first choice was animator or 3d designer, but ...there are close to 0 colleges in my area that offer that major, and since my grades weren't the best, it would be impossible for me to get a scholorship, although I have heard that the US gov. does give grants to people who want to study overseas. But I haven't found any evidence supporting this, only rumors. anywhoo, since it probably would be incredibly too tough to be a 3d animator in the US, much less japan, Im thinking an english teacher would be my best option, since people always say I have a way with kids. of course im planning to get a college degree before moving (hopefully) to japan permanently... So, does anyone know the requirements for a resident visa? just so I would be prepared XD

You need to have lived here for 6-10 years on another type of visa and to have kept your nose clean.. then you can apply.
No guarantees they approve them

Have you spent much time here yet?
I only ask because people some times decide to live here without having been here yet!

I agree with Petina, you should always (not just Japan) spend some time in another country before deciding whether if you want to try live there or not. What if you went over with everything planned, turned down alot of other oppertunities elsewhere and spent alot of money, then when arriving it turns out not what you expected? (it does happen). And seemingly alot of people think about this regarding Japan.

And also agreed on the residency visa's, long term before you could apply (10 years total, 5 years working, according to source read), have sponsership, no criminal record and also proof that you have contributed to Japanese society. Being a Assistant Teacher or Singer will possibly be rejected for application while being a Scientist or Engineer wont. Also these applications are looked through more thoroughly than normal visa's and more difficult to get.

Completely agree with petina's and Cravez' advice.







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