What is the "Cultural Activities" residence status?

“Cultural Activities Status of Residence” is perfect for foreigners who want to learn or research traditional culture and techniques in Japan. In this article, we will introduce the Cultural Activities Status of Residence in detail and explain the points to note and things to be aware of when obtaining it.

What is Cultural Activities Status of Residence?

“Cultural Activities Status of Residence” is a status of residence for those who want to engage in academic or artistic activities or learn culture and techniques unique to Japan without earning an income in Japan.
For example, studying Japanese painting, researching tea ceremony or calligraphy, and acquiring traditional craft techniques are applicable.
However, the activities must be planned and specialized, not just as a hobby.
Activities that generate remuneration are generally not permitted.

This is a qualification for those who want to seriously study Japanese culture and arts.

Points to note regarding the period of stay and renewal of cultural activities status of residence

The period of stay available with a cultural activities status of residence is as follows.

Choices of period of stay: 3 years, 1 year, 6 months, 3 months.
The Immigration Bureau will review and decide based on the contents of the application.
Conditions for renewal: It is important that you are continuing your activities. As proof of this, you will need to provide an activity plan and documents showing financial support.
When renewing your period of stay, it will be confirmed whether you are proceeding with your activities as planned.

The key to renewing your period of stay is to show your plan in detail.

Conditions and documents required to obtain a cultural activities status of residence

When applying, it is important to meet the following conditions and prepare the necessary documents.

Required conditions

Activity content: The activity must be to learn about Japanese culture, arts, science, or the arts.
Income: The activity itself must not generate income.
Planning: There must be a clear activity plan.
Ability to pay expenses: You must prove that you can cover your living and activity expenses during your stay.

Required documents

Application for Certificate of Eligibility (1 copy)
Photo (specified size, attached to application)
Copy of passport (ID page)
Return envelope (addressed and with necessary postage)
Materials related to activity plan and hosting organization:
- Document detailing the activities and period.
- Materials outlining the hosting organization (e.g. pamphlet, etc.).
Materials proving academic and artistic achievements (e.g. recommendation letter, past activity record, award history, etc.).
Materials showing ability to pay expenses:
- If you will be paying for your own expenses, a bank statement or scholarship certificate, etc.
- If you receive support, a certificate of income or bank statement of the supporter, etc.

For details, please check the Immigration Services Agency – “Cultural Activities” residence status.

Differences from other residence statuses

Cultural activities residence status has different purposes and conditions from other residence statuses.

Student visa: The premise is to attend an educational institution. Cultural activities visa is a qualification for learning individual cultures and skills without attending school.
Specific skills visa: While work is permitted, cultural activities visa is limited to activities that do not generate income.
Trainee visa: The purpose is to acquire skills at work, but cultural activities visa is mainly for independent study and research.

It is important to choose the residence status that best suits your purpose.

Can I work part-time with a cultural activities visa?

In general, part-time work is not permitted with a cultural activities visa. However, if you apply for and obtain “permission to engage in activities outside the scope of your status of residence,” you will be able to work part-time as long as you meet the conditions.

Main conditions

There is no interference with cultural activities.
You must adhere to the limit of 28 hours per week (some exceptions apply).

When applying, you will need to submit the specific details of the part-time job, the hours, and information about your employer.

Important points to note when inviting family members

If you have a cultural activities status of residence and want to bring your family members to Japan, you will need to apply for a “family visa”.

Conditions for applying for a family visa

You must be able to cover the living expenses of your accompanying person (spouse and children).
Documents showing a sufficient financial foundation are required.

Since cultural activities are activities that do not generate income, it is important to prove that you are financially stable if you are inviting family members to Japan.

Summary

The cultural activities status of residence is a great system for foreigners who want to learn more about Japanese culture, academic studies, and the arts. However, you will need to prepare a clear plan and documents to apply. Also, since the activities are basically non-income-generating, it is important to prepare well in advance for expenses during your stay.

If you have any concerns, consulting an expert while applying will help the process go smoothly.