Are you feeling unsure about where to start with visa applications or immigration procedures in Japan?
Many people find the system complex and difficult to navigate.
My name is Toshiyasu Uehara, a licensed administrative scrivener (immigration lawyer) based in Tokyo. I specialize in supporting foreign nationals with visa and residency applications in Japan.
My Background
I moved to Canada in 2002, and over the past 20+ years, I have worked in the field of immigration.
In Canada, I had the opportunity to work with people from diverse backgrounds—permanent residents, international students, and foreign workers—who were building their lives in a new country.
Seeing how people from different cultures could coexist and thrive left a strong impression on me.
Motivated by this experience, I became a licensed immigration consultant and began supporting clients with Canadian permanent residency and work permit applications.
Professional Experience
In the early stages of my career, it was not easy to build a stable business. I managed Japanese language classes and was also involved in study abroad services while gaining experience.
Over time, I built strong networks with small business owners in hospitality industries such as tourism, restaurants, and beauty services in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Banff.
I have handled a wide range of cases, including:
- Work permits for foreign employees
- Immigration inspections and compliance support for employers
- Permanent residence applications
- Spousal and common-law partner sponsorships
- Investment immigration programs (now closed)
- Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) cases
My Work in Japan
In recent years, Canada has adjusted its immigration policies and reduced the intake of foreign nationals.
At the same time, I became increasingly interested in Japan’s evolving immigration system and policies regarding foreign workers.
Although I passed the administrative scrivener exam in 2015, I had not initially planned to work in immigration law in Japan. However, given the rapid changes in Japan’s immigration environment, I realized that my international experience could be highly valuable.
Areas of Focus
Moving forward, I aim to focus on the following areas:
- Supporting foreign workers with visa acquisition, renewal, and compliance, as well as advising small business owners
- Assisting Japanese nationals and their foreign spouses or partners living abroad to relocate and settle in Japan
- Providing full English support for visa applications, including work visas, business manager visas, and permanent residency
Final Thoughts
Visa and immigration procedures can have a significant impact on both personal lives and business operations.
With over 20 years of experience, I strive to provide practical, realistic, and reliable solutions tailored to each client’s situation.
If you need assistance with visa applications or immigration matters in Japan, please feel free to contact me through the inquiry form or book a consultation via Zoom.