Moving to the UK from Japan: Guide 2026
What you need to know
- •Japanese citizens are eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme (ages 18-30).
- •No TB test required, but English language test IS required.
- •Significant Japanese business community in London.
- •Budget JPY 500,000 to 1,500,000 for visa costs.
- •Japan permits dual citizenship for those who acquired it before age 22 (complex rules apply).
Japan has a strong bilateral relationship with the UK, reflected in the Youth Mobility Scheme and significant Japanese business presence. Japanese nationals have several visa routes available. This guide covers the options and practical considerations.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
Visa Routes for Japanese Citizens
- Youth Mobility Scheme. Available to Japanese citizens aged 18 to 30. Allows 2 years of living and working in the UK with no sponsor required.
- Skilled Worker visa. Requires a licensed sponsor at the minimum salary of £38,700.
- Intra-company transfer. For Japanese employees being transferred to a UK branch of their company.
- Student visa. See the student visa guide.
- Family visa. See the spouse visa guide.
Document Requirements
- Valid Japanese passport.
- No TB test required.
- English language test. Required. Widely available across Japan.
- Police certificate. Apply for a criminal record certificate from the prefectural police headquarters. Processing takes approximately 2 weeks.
Costs in Japanese Yen
- Youth Mobility visa: £298 (approximately JPY 58,000)
- Skilled Worker visa fee: £719 to £1,420 (approximately JPY 140,000 to 290,000)
- IHS (per year): £1,035 (approximately JPY 200,000)
- English test: approximately JPY 25,000 to 30,000
See our UK visa fees guide.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
The Japanese Community in the UK
The Japanese community in the UK numbers approximately 60,000 to 70,000, heavily concentrated in London (particularly Acton, Ealing, Finchley, and the City). The Japanese business community is significant, with major Japanese corporations having London offices. Japanese schools, restaurants, shops, and cultural centres are well established.
After Arrival
- Collect your BRP within 10 days
- Apply for a National Insurance number
- Register with a GP
- Open a UK bank account
Path to Settlement
After 5 years on a qualifying visa, apply for ILR. After 12 months with ILR, apply for British citizenship. Note: Japan technically does not recognise dual citizenship for adults, so seek advice before acquiring British citizenship.
Next Steps
For the Youth Mobility Scheme, visit the GOV.UK Youth Mobility page. For other routes, see the GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa page.
This guide is general immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
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Read guidePreparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.