Visa Options for Inviting Foreign Athletes to Japan
Visa Options for Inviting
Foreign Athletes to Japan
Visa Requirements for Professional and Amateur Athletes
The visa requirements for inviting foreign athletes to Japan vary based on whether they are professionals or amateurs, and whether they participate in team or individual sports. For professional athletes earning a salary, the applicable visa category is the “Entertainer (2nd category).” Amateur athletes do not fall under this category. Athletes representing their countries in events like the Olympics or World Cup, regardless of their professional or amateur status, typically qualify for a “visa exemption” or “short-term stay.”
Special Cases and Visa Classifications In cases where athletes are hired by sports teams not primarily for entertainment purposes, such as for company promotion, different visa categories apply. For individual sports athletes in such scenarios, the “Designated Activities 6th category” visa is applicable. Depending on their activities, these athletes may also qualify for visas under “short-term stay,” “Skilled Labor,” or “Technology, Humanities Knowledge, and International Services” (like marketing roles).
Navigating Complex Visa Classifications Given the complexity of visa categories for foreign athletes, it is highly recommended to consult with experts for specific cases to determine the appropriate visa type.
Key Requirements for Entertainer Visas for Athletes
- The hiring entity must contract with foreign athletes to perform in professional sports matches.
- The hiring organization should be engaged in conducting sports matches as a business activity.
- Athletes must receive compensation equal to or greater than their Japanese counterparts.
- Details of the sports facilities and event must be clearly outlined.
- The schedule of the event should justify the athlete’s stay in Japan.
Additional Considerations Top athletes contributing to the promotion of sports in Japan, such as those placing highly in the Olympics or World Championships, may receive preferential treatment for permanent residency. Where normally ten years of residence in Japan is required, these athletes might be eligible for permanent residency after just five years.
Professional
Masakazu Murai
Immigration consultant, Financial advisor
He has 18 years experience in Investment Banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley. He had provided financial advisory more than 500 entrepreneurs and senior management.
He currently supports many foreign entrepreneurs in Japan, taking advantage of the experience of an investment banker. He is the best expert of Business VISA in Japan.
Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer
CMA(Japanese financial analyst license)
CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
MBA in Entrepreneurship
