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Some people aspiring to work in specialized professions in Japan might wonder, “What is the ‘Legal/Accounting Services’ residence status?” This status is required for those who wish to work in specific professional roles in Japan, such as attorneys or certified public accountants. However, obtaining this status involves meeting certain requirements.
In this article, we will explain the “Legal/Accounting Services” status in simple terms and provide key points and application procedures. By reading this, you’ll understand the necessary steps and documents, enabling you to prepare confidently.
Overview of the “Legal/Accounting Services” Residence Status
Eligible Applicants
This residence status is required for professionals such as lawyers, certified public accountants, and tax accountants working in Japan. Additionally, individuals holding foreign qualifications can apply if they complete the necessary procedures to have their qualifications recognized in Japan.
1. Holders of Japanese National Qualifications
- Lawyers
Individuals who have passed the Japanese bar examination and are registered with a bar association in Japan. - Certified Public Accountants
Individuals who have passed the Japanese CPA examination and are registered with the Japanese Institute of Certified Public Accountants. - Tax Accountants
Individuals who have passed the Japanese tax accountant examination and are registered with a tax accountant association. - Judicial Scriveners and Administrative Scriveners
Individuals who have obtained the judicial scrivener or administrative scrivener qualifications in Japan and are registered with their respective organizations. - Licensed Land and House Surveyors
- Social Insurance Labor Consultants
2. Holders of Foreign Qualifications (Conditional)
- Registered Foreign Lawyers
Individuals who hold a lawyer qualification from a foreign country and are registered in Japan as a “Registered Foreign Lawyer”. - Foreign Certified Public Accountants
Individuals who have obtained CPA qualifications in a foreign country and have received recognition in Japan.
Scope of Work
Employment is limited to work related to the specific qualification. For example, lawyers may engage in legal consultations and procedures, while certified public accountants may handle audits and tax-related services. Jobs that do not require these qualifications, such as administrative roles in general companies, are excluded.
Important Points
- Even if you hold a relevant qualification, this residence status cannot be obtained for jobs that do not require the qualification, such as working in the legal department or performing administrative tasks in a general company.
- It is a requirement to engage in exclusive professional activities that utilize your qualification in Japan.
Period of Stay
- The period of stay can be one of the following: 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, or 3 months.
- The duration is determined based on factors such as the nature of the assigned work, the importance of the qualification, and the stability of the job.
Requirements for Obtaining the “Legal/Accounting Services” Residence Status
Required Qualifications
- Japanese Qualifications
Applicants must hold qualifications recognized within Japan, such as lawyer, certified public accountant, or tax accountant credentials. Additionally, registration with the respective professional associations (e.g., bar association, CPA institute, tax accountant association) is mandatory. - Foreign Qualifications
Foreign qualifications can also be valid if recognized through the appropriate procedures in Japan. For example, registration as a Registered Foreign Lawyer or Foreign Certified Public Accountant is required.
Stability of Lifestyle
Applicants must have a stable income sufficient to sustain their life in Japan. This typically requires submitting documents such as an employment contract and pay slips.
Nature of Work
The work undertaken by the applicant must be exclusive to individuals holding the relevant qualification. For instance, if the applicant holds a lawyer qualification, their work must involve legal services.
Application Process and Required Documents
Application Process
- Application for Certificate of Eligibility
This is for individuals who are obtaining a new qualification and wish to apply for this residence status while outside Japan. - Application for Change of Residence Status
This is required for individuals already residing in Japan under a different residence status and seeking to switch to “Legal/Accounting Services.” - Application for Renewal of Period of Stay
Those already holding this status must apply for an extension before the expiration of their current period of stay.
Required Documents
- Application form for the Certificate of Eligibility
- Photograph
- Self-addressed return envelope
- Copy of passport
- Documentation proving the qualification held
- Other documents as required based on the situation (e.g., employment contract, company profile of the employer, documents explaining job responsibilities)
The specific details of the required documents may vary depending on the application. You can confirm the requirements with the Immigration Services Agency.
Immigration Services Agency – Residence Status “Legal/Accounting Services”
If you are unsure about the required documents for your application, please consult via the contact information provided here.
Summary
This is a qualification required to work in legal or accounting professions in Japan. It is necessary to hold the relevant qualification and engage in related professional activities. For foreign qualifications, recognition procedures in Japan are required.
Those aiming to obtain this status should review the requirements carefully and ensure there are no deficiencies in their documentation. If you have any uncertainties, consult with experts or the Immigration Services Agency to facilitate your application process.