Japan Strengthens Residency Screening Procedures: New Compliance Requirements for Companies Hiring Foreign Employees

Japan is expected to introduce stricter screening procedures for Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa applications by requiring companies to submit more comprehensive employment and assignment documentation before employees arrive in Japan.

As Japan continues to attract global talent and promote international business activities, the government is placing greater emphasis on strengthening immigration compliance and improving the transparency of work visa applications.

From April 2026, Japan is expected to enhance the review process for Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) residence status applications, with immigration authorities placing greater focus on verifying the legitimacy of employee transfers and the relationship between overseas and Japanese entities.

Why Is Japan Enhancing the Screening Process?

Japan has seen continuous growth in the number of foreign workers in recent years. By the end of 2024, the number of foreign workers in Japan reached approximately 2.3 million, representing a record high.

As more multinational companies relocate employees to Japan, authorities are aiming to ensure that intra-company transfers are genuine, properly documented, and aligned with immigration requirements.

The strengthened review process is designed to:

• Improve transparency in foreign employment arrangements
  

• Prevent improper or fictitious employment transfers
  

• Ensure that applicants meet the requirements for their intended activities in Japan

Key Changes for Companies Applying for ICT Visas

Companies planning to transfer employees to Japan should expect increased attention on supporting documentation and employment verification.

Required documents may include:

• Employment verification from the overseas parent or affiliated company
  

• Official assignment letters
  

• Detailed job descriptions and responsibilities
  

• Confirmation of acceptance from the Japanese entity
  

• Documentation proving the corporate relationship between entities
  

• Employment history and position details

What Is the Intra-Company Transfer Visa?

The Intra-Company Transfer Visa allows employees of overseas companies to transfer to a related company, branch, or office in Japan within the same corporate group.

Typical applicants are employees who have worked for the overseas organization for a certain period and are being transferred to Japan to perform duties requiring their existing knowledge, experience, or specialized skills.

This visa category is commonly used by multinational companies sending managers, specialists, and key personnel to support their Japanese operations.

How Should Global Companies Prepare?

To ensure a smoother application process, companies planning ICT transfers should prepare comprehensive documentation in advance, including:

• Detailed employment records
  

• Clear assignment documentation
  

• Corporate group structure information
  

• Position details in Japan
  

• Detailed job descriptions and responsibilities
  

• Supporting evidence of business necessity
  

Well-prepared documentation can help improve application efficiency and reduce delays caused by additional requests from immigration authorities.

How Hakudatsu Global Supports International Businesses in Japan

Hakudatsu Global assists international companies and professionals with Japan market expansion, business setup, and immigration-related support.

Our services include:

• Japan market entry consulting
  

• Company incorporation support
  

• ICT visa documentation assistance
  

• Coordination with licensed Japanese Gyoseishoshi (Administrative Scrivener) professionals
  

• Business relocation and expansion planning
  

• Long-term Japan business strategy consulting
  

As Japan continues to strengthen immigration compliance requirements, early preparation and professional guidance are becoming increasingly important for companies planning international employee transfers.

With our local expertise and professional network, Hakudatsu Global helps overseas companies establish compliant operations in Japan and navigate the challenges of cross-border expansion.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your business expansion into Japan

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