If you are planning to leave Ukraine and need information about legislation, rights, temporary protection or services in a foreign country, contact us and book an online appointment on our website. Our lawyers will provide answers to your questions and help you find a solution to your problem. We understand that legal matters can create stress and anxiety, but our professionals are ready to take on the responsibility and relieve you and your family of unnecessary burden.
Who is this information for?
Japan has implemented a refugee protection system under Japan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, which also provides temporary protection for displaced persons who do not have visas for Japan independently from their citizenship.
Citizens of Ukraine have priority when applying for a short-term visa, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (“MoFA”)(gaimushou 外務省) announced that their employees on places in Europe process these visa applications as soon as possible.
Japan: immigration information
What documents do I need for entry?
According to the current policy of the Japanese government (developed specifically in response to the crisis in Ukraine), Ukrainian refugees (whom the Japanese government often refers to as “evacuees”) must enter Japan on a so-called short-term visa ( tanki-taizai , 电影最作方法) , which allows entry for an initial period of up to 90 days. This short stay visa can then be upgraded to another visa category in Japan for extended stay and to allow the holder to seek employment in Japan.
In order to obtain a short-stay visa, the applicant must normally submit two types of documents to the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate or (if the applicant is already in Japan) the nearest local branch of the Immigration Services Agency (“ISA”) ( shutsunyukoku-zairyu-kanri – kyoku ,出入国(在留管理局): (1) the applicant’s passport and (2) the so-called letter of guarantee (a sample letter of guarantee can be found here (in English only), but this format is not strictly necessary). If the applicant has lost or currently does not have a passport, the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate can issue a so-called travel document (this is just a general term for documents that can be used to replace a passport, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not specifically specify which document types qualify as a travel document, so Ukrainian evacuees who do not have a passport are advised to check with the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate about which documents can be used as a travel document), which can replace a passport and allow international travel to Japan. Even if the applicant does not have a passport or refugee travel document, the relevant Japanese consulate will issue a replacement travel document. Due to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, these authorities are taking a very flexible approach to evacuees from Ukraine and may be able to find another way. In order to fill out the letter of guarantee, the applicant needs to obtain a signature from the Guarantor in Japan.
The guarantor does not necessarily have to be a family member. It is sufficient that even friends or other contact persons can act as a Guarantor (in this case, the Japanese authorities may ask the applicant to describe the nature of their relationship). Individuals who do not have family or friends in Japan who could act as a Guarantor are strongly advised to contact the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate, Immigration Service Bureau and/or some Japanese Refugee NGOs (details below ) for guidance and support. As mentioned, the Japanese authorities try to be as flexible as possible and may be able to match the applicant with a potential Guarantor or find another solution/workaround.
Short-stay visas issued at any Japanese embassy/consulate located in Europe, including certain temporary consulates opened in response to the crisis in Ukraine.
Please note that despite the fact that the Embassy of Japan in Ukraine (Kyiv) resumed its work on October 5, 2022, consular services are currently not provided. The Japanese government recommends that those who need consular services contact the Embassy of Japan in Warsaw or the temporary office in Rzeszów.
A list of current Japanese embassies/consulates in Europe is available here (in English). The crisis response page in Ukrainian is available here .
The Japanese government also announced that upon entering Japan, Ukrainian evacuees do not need a certificate of a negative test result for COVID-19.
In addition, temporary consulates were also opened in the following cities:
Rzeszow (Poland)
Hotel Metropolitan Rzeszów (16 Yuliusz Slovackoho St., 35-060, Rzeszów)
Email: +48 691 898 025
Email: cons@wr.mofa.go.jp
If a Ukrainian has left Ukraine and wishes to join his family or friends living in Japan, he can apply for a Japanese visa at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate General in any country. The following documents are required: (i) visa application form, (ii) document photo (size 45mm x 34mm or 2 inches by 1.4 inches); (iii) a valid passport (with certain exceptions) and (iv) a letter of guarantee, which must be written by a relative or friend residing in Japan.
The warranty letter must normally be provided in hard copy, however, if it is not provided in hard copy but in PDF format, it can also be sent by email. In this case, the verification process may take a little longer.
If it is not possible to obtain a photo for the documents or if the applicant only has an expired passport, identity card or birth certificate, please contact the relevant embassy or consulate general for further assistance.
If a person evacuated from Ukraine wishes to go to Japan, but has no relatives or friends in Japan, contact the relevant embassy or consulate general for help. In such a case, a passport issued by a foreign government recognized by the Japanese government or any authorized international organization is submitted, or an identity document or any other form of identification may be used instead of a passport. If you do not have any of these documents, please contact the relevant embassy or consulate general as they may issue a tourist certificate that can be used to travel to Japan.
There are recent reports that the Japanese government intends to amend the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act this fall to introduce a new “quasi-refugee” (jun-nan’min, 準難民難民) regime in addition to the current of the refugee protection regime (nan’min, ), because persons fleeing conflict between states are not recognized as “refugees” under the UN Convention and the Immigration Act, based on the current official interpretation of the UN Refugee Convention by the Japanese government. Although the details of the requirements and protections provided under this “quasi-refugee” framework remain unclear, several media outlets have reported that longer periods of residence and work permits will be granted to those who qualify.
How can I enter if I do not have a biometric passport?
It is not necessary to have a biometric passport to enter Japan. However, please note that all foreign arrivals will be fingerprinted and photographed at airport immigration, regardless of whether they have a biometric passport.
How long can I stay here?
In the case of a short-term visa, a resident can stay in Japan for up to 90 days. This visa can later be changed to a designated activity visa ( tokutei-katsudou , 安全活字) , which allows the holder to stay for one year and is renewable under certain circumstances (see below).
Are there any Covid requirements and if so what are they?
The Japanese government has exempted Ukrainian evacuees from the requirement to be tested for COVID-19 in order to travel to Japan. However, when Ukrainian evacuees arrive in Japan, they may be quarantined for three to seven days if they are not vaccinated (note: vaccination must be verified with a valid certificate). A brochure published by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (“MHLW”) provides more detailed information about this process and is available here (English only). Please note that Ukraine is not currently a so-called “designated country/region” (requiring a three-day quarantine or seven-day quarantine in a government facility in the absence of vaccination), while Russia is a designated country/region. The list of designated countries/regions is constantly changing, so please check the MHLW and/or MoFA website regularly before traveling to Japan. An up-to-date list of designated countries/regions can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here.
How to extend a visa for a long-term stay?
Upon arrival in Japan, the most likely scenario for those who wish to stay in Japan longer than the initial period of 90 days will be to change the short-term visa ( tanki-taizai, 歌利月斯), which does not allow the holder to seek employment in Japan, to a so – called visa for designated activities ( tokutei-katsudou), which will probably be issued for an initial one-year period, and may later be extended until the situation in Ukraine improves. A visa for designated activities will allow the holder to seek employment in Japan (subject to certain exceptions among permitted activities – such as nightlife, among others). Generally, it takes 2 to 4 weeks to transition from a short-stay visa to a designated activity visa after applying for a change of status ( zairyuu-shikaku henkou-kyoka-shinsei , 在留设计应用论论设计) ). Please note that you must apply for a change of status before the expiry of your short-term visa ( tanki-taizai , 最月最新) – that is, within 90 days of the holder’s arrival in Japan.
A visa for designated activities plays a role similar to temporary protection in the European Union. Generally, Japanese visas are classified, categorized and issued according to the relevant laws and the nature of the employment, however the ISA is allowed to issue unspecified visas for activities outside the existing categories – this is the so-called designated activity visa. The ISA now allows Ukrainian evacuees to obtain visas for specific activities to allow them to seek paid work in Japan and stay for a longer period.
When making such an application, please visit your nearest local ISA branch. The list of ISA regional offices can be found here.
How long do you have to wait to get temporary protection status? (If you know or if you can roughly calculate.)
As discussed above, the designated activity visa transition process takes approximately 2-4 weeks and will depend on the situation/circumstances of each evacuee. For short-stay visas, Japanese authorities at embassies and consulates are working to process these applications as quickly as possible. We are not aware of the current time frame for this visa, but we suspect it may also take 2-4 weeks depending on the circumstances.
What rights do I have while waiting for temporary protection?
With an initial short-stay visa, the holder can stay in Japan for up to 90 days, but will not meet the criteria to work in Japan. If a short-stay visa holder applies for a transition visa for designated activities, the applicant will be eligible to extend their short-stay visa for up to two additional months. However, during this additional waiting period, the applicant will not be eligible to work in Japan. Once the applicant receives a visa for specific activities, he/she will be allowed to look for work.
What documents do I need to apply for temporary protection?
In order to renew your short stay visa for designated activities, the applicant must submit the following documents and pay the fees to the local ISA office:
- Application form (a sample form can be found here (Japanese/English), but we recommend that you confirm the relevant form with the relevant local ISA office before submitting);
- Documents that can confirm Ukrainian citizenship (it is desirable to have a copy of the passport, but in the absence of a passport, please contact the relevant local ISA branch);
- Letter of guarantee (a sample letter can be found here (in English), but there is no requirement to use this particular template);
- The reason for staying in Japan (there is no mandatory form, probably a description of the current crisis in Ukraine will be enough); and
- Payment of 4,000 Japanese yen (approx. UAH 992.87).
What document(s) will I receive after being granted temporary protection?
The successful applicant will receive a so-called Residence Card ( zairyuu-kaado , 在留カード) as proof of visa for the designated activities, which must be collected in person at the local ISA office where the application was submitted. The owner must always carry the Residence Card with him. Please take care of the special Residence Card, which is used in Japan as a form of identification and will be required for various administrative procedures with Japanese authorities (such as enrollment in an educational institution and for some other benefits from your municipal government agencies).
Can I become a citizen after receiving temporary protection? How long do I have to stay to be eligible?
In order to obtain Japanese citizenship ( kika , 帰化), an applicant generally needs to have lived continuously in Japan for more than five years with a valid visa and a certain residence status. This process can be complicated and usually requires a good command of the Japanese language. An alternative to obtaining Japanese citizenship is to apply for a so-called Permanent Residence ( eijyuu, 永住), which generally requires permanent residence in Japan for ten years (but may require five years or even one year under certain circumstances) with a valid visa and residence status that is directly related to employment or certain other residence statuses . Unfortunately, a visa for specified activities generally does not allow the holder to apply for Japanese citizenship and/or permanent residence, even if the thresholds for the required period of residence are met.
Can I move freely around the country with the status of temporary protection?
So. Short-stay visa holders who wish to leave Japan and return within the validity period will need to apply to their local ISA office for a re-entry permit ( sainyuukoku- kyoka , 再入国言言) before leaving Japan. As for designated activity visa holders, they can more easily obtain re-entry permission if they check the box expressing their intention to return to Japan on the departure form submitted to the Japan Immigration Office at a Japanese international airport immediately before departure from Japan
Can I apply for asylum with temporary protection status?
So.
The applicant must apply to the local ISA branch. If the applicant is successful in obtaining refugee status, he or she will receive a so-called residence status visa ( teijyuusha, 定住者). According to the residence status visa, the holder can stay in Japan for up to five years (with some exceptions). Because the process of applying for refugee status is difficult, we advise most Ukrainian evacuees to first apply for a visa for specific activities, which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ISA have recommended as the best approach for those Ukrainian evacuees who wish to stay in Japan for a longer period of time period. If Ukrainian evacuees would like to apply for refugee status, we recommend contacting your local refugee NGO to discuss your individual case and circumstances.
You can learn more about refugee status in this guide (in English, Russian here) developed by ISA.
If I have family members outside of Ukraine, can I apply for family reunification? If so, in what way?
Yes, but each family member will also need to obtain visas to stay in Japan according to the procedures described above.
Japan: employment information
Do I need to apply for a permit to be able to work? If so, how to do it?
It depends on the visa category. A short-term stay visa ( tanki-taizai , 歌词方法) does not allow the holder to engage in employment in Japan, however (as discussed above) it is possible to switch from this visa to another visa category, including a designated activity visa ( tokutei- katsudou , specific activity) , which allows the holder to seek paid work in Japan (subject to certain restrictions on the types of work, in particular, employment in the night entertainment industry). It usually takes 2-4 weeks to change from a short-term visa to another type of visa ( zairyuu-shikaku henkou-kyoka-shinsei , 在留设计应用设计电影), but please note that the application must be initiated before the expiry of the short-term stay visa ( tanki-taizai , 空里新斯) , which is 90 days.
Please contact your local ISA office to change visa categories (processing and contact details are discussed above).
Am I entitled to unemployment benefits? How and where can I apply?
In general, in Japan, unemployment benefits are provided at the expense of the previous employer, so people who do not have work experience in Japan are generally not eligible for unemployment benefits.
However, foreigners with a valid residence status (including holders of a specified activity visa ( tokutei-katsudou , 安全活字) can apply for the government assistance program ( seikatsu-hogo , 生活起死) at the relevant city hall. The amount provided under this program varies in depending on the applicant’s location and situation (eg family size/age/disability).
Individuals who work in Japan for 12 months or longer (for example, on a visa for certain activities) will be eligible for unemployment benefits for one year after they stop working. The applicant’s former employer is required to apply for unemployment insurance benefits upon termination of employment, so the employee generally does not need to submit additional materials or visit the Job Center (called Hello Work , ハローワーク) in such a case.
In addition to the programs listed above, on April 1, 2022, the Japanese government publicly announced that accommodations and living expenses/medical services would be arranged for Ukrainian evacuees through the Refugee Relief Headquarters (also known as RHQ) of the Asian People’s Welfare and Education Fund ( ajia fukushi kyouiku zaidan – nanmin jigyou honnbu Asia福票教育財団 難民事官本部).
In addition, the Japanese government also supports Ukrainian evacuees who do not have family members or acquaintances to help them find a host city/company that will support their new life in Japan. On April 11, 2022, the ISA publicly announced that the following Ukrainian evacuees (i.e., persons who do not have relatives or friends in Japan) are eligible for special financial assistance from the government:
- While they are temporarily staying in a hotel arranged by the government, they are entitled to:
- Free food;
- Daily living expenses in the amount of 1000 yen (about 236 hryvnias) for persons aged 12 and over, and 500 yen (about 118 hryvnias) per day for persons aged 11 years and younger; and
- Reimbursement of medical expenses, Japanese language tuition fees, and job search assistance fees.
- After an evacuated Ukrainian finds his host city/company, he/she has the right to receive the following financial assistance within six months:
- a one-time lump sum payment of 160,000 yen (approximately UAH 37,776) for persons aged 16 and over, and 80,000 yen (approximately UAH 18,888) for persons aged 15 and younger;
- Living expenses in the amount of 2,400 yen (approx. 566 hryvnias) per day for the first person aged 12 and over, 1,600 yen (approx. 377 hryvnias) per day for the second or subsequent persons of the same age (years), and 1,200 yen (approx. 283 hryvnias) per day for persons aged 11 years or younger; and
- Reimbursement of expenses for medical services, Japanese language classes and fees for job search services.
However, please note that the details of the special financial assistance program set out above are subject to change depending on further announcements by the Japanese government.
On April 15, 2022, the Nippon Foundation (one of the largest charitable organizations in Japan) publicly announced the launch of a special program of financial assistance to Ukrainian evacuees who have relatives or acquaintances in Japan. Applications from sponsors will be accepted from April 20, 2022 to March 31, 2023, and the program will cover the following costs and expenses: (i) travel expenses up to RMB 300,000 (approx. UAH 69,000) or the cost of an air ticket from Ukraine to Japan (ii ) living expenses of up to RMB 1 million (approx. UAH 230,000) per person (maximum of RMB 3 million (approx. UAH 60, 90,000) for one household per year (up to three years) and (iii) a one-time payment of a new 500,000 yuan (about 115,000 hryvnias) per household to help evacuees settle in public housing.
In addition to the financial assistance programs listed above, many municipal governments that host Ukrainian refugees offer their own financial assistance if certain requirements are met. The amounts provided vary by municipal government, but are generally subject to the following conditions: (i) the person is recognized by the Japanese government as a “Ukrainian Evacuee”, (ii) the person is registered as a resident by the municipal government, and (iii) the person did not receive similar financial assistance from another municipal government.
Are there any programs for the recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications? How and where can I apply?
Japan has a Higher Education Certificate Recognition Program (aka kousotsu-nintei-shiken , 高卒结果記言), which certifies that anyone who passes an examination conducted under the program has an academic ability equivalent to that of a graduate of a Japanese higher education institution. However, non-native speakers of Japanese do not usually use this program because the exam is conducted entirely in Japanese.
Professional qualification recognition programs differ depending on the type of professional qualification. For example, a doctor with a medical license from another country cannot practice in Japan under his foreign license; however, he/she may be allowed to take the medical licensure exam in Japan without graduating from a Japanese medical school if approved by the MHLW.
Which governmental and non-governmental bodies can I turn to for additional information on employment?
The Employment Center (under the name Hello Work , ハローワーク) is the responsible government agency for employment in Japan. In addition, some non-governmental organizations offer assistance programs for foreigners seeking work in Japan, including the Japan Refugee Association, whose website can be accessed here (in English).
In addition, services in Ukrainian are available at the following employment service centers in Tokyo and Osaka:
- Tokyo SErvice Employment Center for Foreigners (Foreign Resident Support Center, “FRESC”) (Available from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays) 13th Floor Yotsuya Tower, CO MO RE Yotsuya1-6-1 Yotsuya , Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004
Phone +81 (0)50-53 61-8722
- Tokyo International Recruiting Center
Ito Building 1st and 2nd Floors
1-2 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0005
Tel: +81 (0)50-5576-7317
- Osaka Foreigner Employment Service Center (Available from 14:00 to 17:00 on Thursdays and Fridays) Hankyu Grand Building 16th Floor, 8-47 Kakuda-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0017
Phone +81 (0)6-6941-2297
- Osaka Foundation for International Exchange (OFIX)
5th Floor, MyDome Osaka
2-5 Hommachibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel +81 (0)6-6914-2297
Japan: information on housing
Can I access public/government-provided housing?
So. Some local governments (such as Tokyo Metropolitan Government ( Tokyo-to , 東京都), Osaka Prefectural Government ( Osaka-fu , 大阪府) and Kanagawa Prefectural Government ( Kanagawa-ken , 神奈川県) have announced that they will provide state housing for evacuated Ukrainians in accordance with the statement of the Japanese government regarding evacuated Ukrainians and housing has already been provided to many Ukrainians.
In addition, if the evacuated Ukrainian does not have family members or acquaintances in Japan, the Japanese government will arrange for him/her temporary accommodation (for example, a hotel room) immediately upon arrival in Japan.
In general, special housing and housing offers by local governments (and private companies) are coordinated by the Japanese government in response to the needs of Ukrainian evacuees upon arrival in Japan .
How and where can I apply for public housing?
In general, each local authority has established counseling services for evacuated people from Ukraine. For example, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has opened a “Reference and Consultation Bureau for Evacuees from Ukraine”, and Ukrainian evacuees can get the necessary information about life in Japan, including housing services, from these services.
Please see the following local authority advice website and telephone number for an advice service available.
Tokyo metropolitan authorities
Consultation service for evacuees from Ukraine (available here, in English)
Telephone of the consultation service: +81 (0) 3-6258-1227
(Support is available in several languages, including Ukrainian, Russian and English)
Kanagawa prefectural authorities
Official response to the situation in Ukraine (available here, in Japanese only)
Phone number of the consultation service: +81 (0) 45-316-2771
(Support is available in several languages, including Ukrainian, Russian and English)
NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) , Japan’s only public television and radio broadcasting company, has published on its website a list of local government advisory services for Ukrainian evacuees in English and Ukrainian (available here in Ukrainian). The telephone numbers of the consultation services of local self-government bodies, which have recently offered housing to Ukrainian refugees, can also be found on this website.
If I live with friends and family for a long time, what documents do I need to fill out to legalize this?
In order to obtain a residence permit, the applicant must have an appropriate visa issued by the Japanese government. Currently, the Japanese government has announced that Ukrainian evacuees who enter Japan with a short-term stay visa ( tanki-taizai , 歌词方式) (valid for 90 days) have the right to convert their visa to a designated activity visa ( tokutei-katsudou , 安全活字) (valid for one year) as discussed above, however, there has been no official announcement yet for further consideration. After the Ukrainian evacuee receives a visa for the designated activities and a corresponding Residence Card, they will be able to apply for a so-called Residence Certificate ( jyuminhyou , 住民票) in the relevant city hall, which is an official document confirming the legal residence of the owner at the specified address. It is also possible to apply for a change of address (which will be reflected in the certificate of residence) to the municipality whose jurisdiction extends to the address in question.
If I personally want to rent a property, what documents do I need?
In general, landlords are free to choose who they rent their units to, and as a result, the number of private residences available for rent to foreigners may be more limited than those available to Japanese citizens (landlords generally prefer to provide for rent to Japanese citizens, not foreigners / refugees). Foreigners intending to rent real estate in Japan are required to submit documents proving their (i) residency status, (ii) income, and (iii) guarantor.
So far, some companies in Japan have said they will provide housing services to evacuees, which will be coordinated through government agencies. Therefore, we recommend that you contact the relevant city hall and/or refugee NGO for advice and support on obtaining this housing through government agencies.
Which governmental and non-governmental bodies can I turn to for additional information about housing?
In addition to contacting local authorities / town halls as discussed above, ISA has a refugee/evacuee counseling service.
Please see the contact information below:
- Japan Immigration Service Agency ( shutsunyuukoku-zairyuu-kannri-cho , 出入国在留管理庁)
Guide for Ukrainians in Japan (available here, in Japanese, Ukrainian and Russian languages)
Phone number of the support service: +81 (0) 12 0-022-702
Email address for support: ukrhelpdesk@bricks-corp.com
(Support in several languages, including Ukrainian and Russian)
- The Japan Refugee Association is a non-profit organization that supports refugees in Japan and has a refugee counseling service. Please see their contact details are below.
Japan Refugee Association ( nanmin-shien-kyokai , 難民支援協会)
Home page available here (English and Japanese only, contains information about daily life in Japan)
Telephone number for refugees: +81 (0) 120-477-472 (or +81 (0) 3-5379-6003)
Japan: information on education
How do I enroll my children (or myself) in an educational institution?
Enrollment in the school is subject to registration as a local resident at your local town hall. In order to register as a local resident of Japan, the applicant will need to present to the local city hall proof of his or her legal residence in Japan, as well as some other supporting documents to prove that he or she actually lives in the relevant locality. A residence card is sufficient to prove your legal residence in Japan (this card is issued after conversion to a visa for certain activities). A rental agreement along with the names of any roommates will be sufficient proof of location. After that, the relevant town hall will provide you with detailed instructions for enrolling in the school. Please note that the admissions process is highly dependent on each school’s requirements and local regulations. Therefore, we recommend that you consult the relevant city hall. Please also read the followinglink (in Ukrainian) of the Ministries of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the Japanese ministries responsible for education and which provide materials on visiting schools and studying under the Japanese program in Ukrainian.
If I have a child with special educational needs, where can I go for help to enroll them in a special school?
So. There are schools that provide special programs for children with special needs, and the respective municipality should be able to provide information about which schools offer these programs. Please note that the admissions process for a school for children with special needs is highly dependent on each school and local regulations. We recommend getting advice from the relevant city hall.
Do universities introduce admission schemes for Ukrainians or people who are forced to leave Ukraine? If so, can you give examples?
The Japanese authorities have not made any public statements regarding schemes for Ukrainian students. However, on March 16, 2022, the Japan University of Economics (日本正话大学), a private university with several branches in Japan, announced that it would accept up to 70 Ukrainian students on a free basis. This university has already accepted three Ukrainian students as of March 16, 2022. We expect other universities to follow suit. This website contains a list of universities that provide support to Ukrainian students.
Pathways Japan, a non-governmental organization that supports refugees in Japan, has created an educational program to support Ukrainian students. Below is a summary of the program (please also refer to this link ):
· Pathways universities
o Currently, this program plans to accept 30 Ukrainian students (although this number is likely to increase depending on demand) who were forced to leave their homeland due to the invasion to universities and graduate schools in Japan. As of June 7, 2022, fifteen universities across Japan are participating in this program, with more likely to be added.
o Under this program, Ukrainian students can enroll in participating universities, as foreign students will receive visa support and full compensation for travel to Japan, housing, tuition and living expenses.
o Applicants must be Ukrainian university students, must be in the process of learning Japanese and fluent in Japanese or English.
· Pathways language schools
o This program currently plans to enroll 50 Ukrainian students (although this number is likely to increase based on demand) who were forced to leave their homeland as a result of the invasion into Japanese-language schools. As of June 7, 2022, approximately 25 language schools are participating in the program.
o Under this program, Ukrainian students can enroll in a two-year educational program with visa support and full compensation for travel to Japan, tuition and some living expenses. Pathways Japan will arrange part-time work and housing for students who must pay other living expenses and rent with the earnings from the part-time job. Students are expected to enter university or graduate school or find employment after completing the program.
o Applicants must have completed high school, must be in the process of learning Japanese, or have family already in Japan. If the applicant has already passed the N4 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, a certain age limit for the program applies.
Which governmental and non-governmental bodies can I turn to for additional information about education?
For pre-schools, kindergartens, elementary, middle and high schools, your nearest local school board ( kyouiku-iinkai, 教育北京) or city hall is the right place for you. As for universities, we recommend contacting the university directly. Please also see the information below regarding crèches.
Please note: if the evacuee Ukrainian does not have family members or acquaintances in Japan, the Japanese authorities will reimburse such an evacuee for the cost of Japanese language courses under the special financial assistance program described above.
Japan: information on child care
How to enroll young children in daycare centers?
In general, there are two types of nurseries in Japan. These are (i) government-certified nurseries ( ninka-hoikuen , 認可保育園) that meet the standards set by the MHLW, and (ii) non-certified nurseries ( ninkagai-hoikuen, 認可外保育園). Registration as a local resident at the nearest town hall is required to enroll in a state-certified nursery school (see discussion above). In addition, the applicant must present the reasons why he or she requires the use of daycare, such as the fact that both parents are working. Please note that the name “uncertified nursery” does not mean that it is an illegal or unauthorized activity. These crèches are also monitored by local authorities and their operations are reasonably safe. The details of each crèche depend on each specific crèche and local regulations. We recommend contacting the relevant local town hall or each nursery for more detailed information.
It depends on the specific municipality. For example, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is providing support for raising children, including a subsidy of 100,000 yen (approximately 24,798.32 UAH) for each newborn, to compensate for the damages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We strongly recommend that you check with your local town hall for any applicable welfare benefits.
Are there any benefits for pregnant and breastfeeding women?
See above. We strongly recommend that you check with your local town hall for any applicable welfare benefits.
Which government and non-government agencies can I turn to for more information about the needs of young children?
Please contact the relevant local town hall.
Japan: medical information
Can I use the public health care system?
Foreign nationals who have a residence status of three months or more (which includes holders of a specified activity visa ( tokutei-katsudou , 安全活字)) are required to participate in the government’s health insurance program. However, holders of a short-term visa ( tanki -taizai , 电影更多) cannot participate in such programs. Given the situation of Ukrainian refugees, additional resources may be available even for short-term visa holders. For more information, we recommend contacting the relevant local city hall.
Recipients of public assistance ( seikatsu-hogo , 生活起路) from municipal governments are entitled to receive medical assistance/free medical services instead of participating in public health insurance programs.
On April 1, 2022, the Japanese government publicly announced that accommodation and living expenses/medical services would be arranged for Ukrainian refugees through the Refugee Relief Headquarters (also known as RHQ) of the Asian People’s Welfare and Education Fund ( ajia fukushi kyouiku zaidan – nanmin jigyou honbu , Asia福票教育財団 難民事官本部). For more information, we recommend that you contact the relevant ISA and/or RHQ branch.
Also, if the evacuated Ukrainian does not have family members or acquaintances in Japan, the Japanese authorities will reimburse them for their medical expenses under the special financial assistance program described above.
Do I need to register to get health insurance, and if so, how?
Individuals working in Japan will be enrolled in a health care program run by their employer or a relevant industry organization called kumiai-kenpo (組合健保) or kyokai-kenpo (協会けんぽ). The monthly contribution to the health care program is automatically deducted from the salary.
Individuals who are not employed and have an eligible residence status (ie, a visa for designated activities but not a short-stay visa) are enrolled in a health care program run by the relevant local government called kokumin-kenpo (国内健保 ) . Such persons will receive a notice/invoice from the City Hall and pay the fee in banks, shops or at the City Hall itself.
What does the public health care system cover?
For treatment/drugs covered by health care programs, individuals’ hospital/pharmacy out-of-pocket payments will be limited to 30% of payments. In addition, individuals covered by the program may seek reimbursement for certain expensive medical procedures. What’s more, there are several special benefits available to certain people, including those who are injured or pregnant, or those who need to take unpaid leave.
Do I need additional private health insurance in addition to public health insurance? If so, are there any schemes available to low-income people?
Supplemental private health insurance is not common for most workers because most illnesses and injuries are covered by public health programs.
Which government and non-government bodies can I turn to for more information about access to health care?
In the case of employment, the employer will be the most suitable contact person. In the absence of employment, it is necessary to contact the National Health Insurance Department of the relevant city hall.
Japan: mental health information
Can I get free mental health support services through the public health system?
MHLW provides free telephone consultation to foreigners and also offers services in several foreign languages. Information about this service can be found here (in English). Neither Ukrainian nor Russian are listed as working support languages, but support is available in other languages, in particular, English.
Hospitals and clinics may offer psychiatric/psychological services, although these are likely to be chargeable.
Japan Mental Health and Training Agencies ( zenshinren, 全心連), which is a non-governmental organization that operates the “Ukrainian Communication Center” in Shibuya, Tokyo. The center provides opportunities for Ukrainian evacuees to receive psychological help from a professional counselor. More information is available at the following link (in Ukrainian).
Do I need to go through any additional administrative procedures to access mental health support services?
No.
What government and non-government agencies can I contact for more information about services for people with mental health problems, especially trauma?
The local municipality and MHLW will be the appropriate authorities for mental health advice.
In addition, the local NGO “TELL” (Tokyo English Lifeline ) provides free 24/7 telephone support and counseling for those suffering from mental disorders. Information about their services is available here (in English).
Some local self-government bodies began to provide consulting services specifically for evacuated Ukrainians. For example, Ibaraki Prefecture now offers mental health counseling for Ukrainian evacuees at its Center for Foreigners ( gaikokujin soudan center , 外国国美国セント). Consultations are available in English, Ukrainian and Russian. The phone number for contacting the Center for Foreigners is 029-241-1611. Their website can be found here , but is only available in Japanese.
Japan: accessto legal assistance and information on the protection of human rights
If I have a legal question and need to hire a lawyer, do I qualify for legal aid? How to find a lawyer?
Foreigners are of course allowed to contact Japanese lawyers for legal assistance in Japan. Huterasu (法ロラス, Japan Legal Support Center (JLSC)): is a public legal service provided by the Japan Federation of Bar Associations (JFBA) (nichibenren,日弁連). Houterasu provides free legal advice for those in need of legal assistance. Although they cannot provide full legal advice in this consultation, they can provide foreigners with basic guidance on the Japanese legal system and the process of officially appointing a lawyer in Japan. Houterasu’s foreigner-oriented website can be found here . Unfortunately, Houterasu services currently only available in English (not Russian or Ukrainian). We do not know whether Russian or Ukrainian languages will be supported in the future.
Is there an ombudsman in the country that deals with the observance of human rights? What is the best way to contact the Ombudsman?
Although Japan does not have an Ombudsman like in other jurisdictions, so-called Human Rights Volunteers ( jinken-yougo-i’in, 人権擁護委員) appointed by Japan’s Ministry of Justice play a role similar to that of the Ombudsman in Japan, particularly in matters of rights a person These Human Rights Volunteers are located in legal affairs offices and district legal affairs offices located throughout Japan and provide advice on human rights issues. You can contact the Human Rights Protection Volunteers by visiting the legal office in person, by phone or online. Details on consultations on human rights protection can be found in English here .
Japan’s National Police Agency (NPA) is asking those who believe they may be a victim of human trafficking to consult the police or the ISA. The NPA has produced leaflets containing the telephone numbers of the police, the Bureau of Immigration Services and NGOs for trafficked women in several languages (including English and Russian) which can be found here .
Japan: bank account and tax information
What documents do I need to open a bank account?
In general, most Japanese banks require the following documents/evidence in order for a foreigner with valid residence status to open a local Japanese yen bank account: (i) a residence card (zairyu card, 在留カード) issued by the Immigration Services Agency (shutsunyukoku- zairyu-kanri-kyoku, 出入国在留管理局) (“ISA”); (ii) valid passport; and (iii) proof of address in Japan, such as a residence permit issued by a municipal authority and a utility bill. If the current address in Japan is recorded on the residence card, no other documents are required. However, on April 21, 2022, the ISA publicly announced that the ISA would issue special identification cards to Ukrainian evacuees that they could use to open a bank account in Japan, instead of the above documents. Special identification cards are expected to be issued to Ukrainian evacuees recognized by the ISA as such by the end of April.
When will I be taxed in the country and what do I need to do to pay taxes?
Foreign nationals living in Japan are subject to personal income tax ( shotoku-zei , 广生税) on their Japanese income after they have acquired an address in Japan. Depending on the residence status, foreigners may also be subject to tax on worldwide income (in particular, those foreigners who have visas for specified activities ( tokutei katsudou,安全活字). In addition, an individual who has registered his residence in Japan in to the municipal authority as of January 1 of each year, is subject to the local residence tax (jumin-zei, 住民税) for this year. If you work for a Japanese employer and have no income other than the salary/bonus received from that employer, then in most cases these taxes are automatically withheld and paid by your employer, so you don’t have to pay them yourself. However, if this is not the case, you may be required to file a tax return ( kakutei-shinkoku-sho, 安全申告書) and pay the relevant taxes by March 15, applicable to income from the previous calendar year.
Japan: other services
Where can an unaccompanied minor get help?
Please consult the relevant local town hall or medical center.
How and where can I apply for disability benefits?
Some local authorities have introduced a system of benefits for foreigners with disabilities. Such a system is available only to persons who live in the area under the jurisdiction of the relevant local authority. These systems have only been implemented in a few localities and do not appear to be available across the country. Accordingly, persons who wish to apply for disability benefits should contact the Department of Health and Social Security of the respective City Hall.
Additional benefits may become available as the Japanese government adjusts its policies in response to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Check with the Immigration Agency or the relevant local municipality for the most up-to-date information.
The Japanese government has also recently introduced a corresponding support system for Ukrainian evacuees to receive assistance in Japan (available here, in Ukrainian). Using this system, Ukrainian evacuees will be able to obtain information about available supplies (e.g. clothing, furniture, etc.) and services (e.g. translation, transportation, etc.) provided by local governments or companies in Japan where they live. An identification number and password to use this system will be sent to the Japanese residences of all registered Ukrainian evacuees by the Immigration Agency shortly after their arrival in Japan.
Could you please list 3-4 public organizations that conduct language classes and other integration programs for Ukrainians?
Japanese support for Ukrainian students (link); Tokyo University of Foreign Languages (link); Pathways Japan (Paths of Japan) (link).
