In response to our July 31 column, "How would changing jobs affect my visa?" S.E. asks: "I have heard of foreigners sponsoring their own visa, but is this true? If so, how can I go about this?"
Yes, it is possible to sponsor your own visa, if you meet several conditions and provide the right documentation.
One way to go about this is to start your own business and obtain an "investor/business manager" visa. You don't need a college degree or diploma, but you will need ¥5 million capital, as well as a detailed business plan and other documentation, all of which you can read about here, next to "Investor/Business Manager": www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/tetuduki/kanri/shyorui/Table3-1.html.
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