Can foreign pro gamers (eSports players) obtain an entertainment visa?
Yes, pro gamers (eSports players) can obtain an entertainment visa. When foreign pro gamers participate in international tournaments or other events in Japan, they need to acquire an entertainment visa. The entertainment visa is divided into four categories, and foreign pro gamers (eSports players) typically need to obtain an entertainment visa under Category 3. This category covers entertainment activities other than acting, singing, dancing, or performing music. Specifically, the following activities fall under this visa:
- Professional sports matches
- Dance or other contests
- Chess tournaments
- eSports competitions
- Fashion shows
- Circuses, and more.
What is an entertainment visa?
The entertainment visa, officially known as the “Kōgyō visa“, is required for foreign nationals to engage in entertainment activities in Japan. “Kōgyō(=Entertainment)” is defined as “showing or presenting films, plays, sports, or other performances to the public at a designated venue.” The visa allows foreign nationals to participate in activities related to the entertainment industry, including sports. Among these, the Category 3 entertainment visa is necessary for pro sports events, circuses, and other entertainment activities that do not involve acting, singing, or dancing.
However, the process for obtaining an entertainment visa is strict, and the application procedure can be complicated. According to the Ministry of Justice, only about 1,500 to 2,000 foreign nationals hold this visa. When applying, it’s important to carefully consider the type of activity, the scale of the event, and the specific requirements.
What are the requirements and necessary documents for an entertainment visa (Category 3)?
(1) Requirements for the Entertainment Visa (Category 3):
To obtain an entertainment visa under Category 3, applicants must meet the following criteria. If the activity does not fall under Categories 1, 2, or 4, it may be eligible for a Category 3 visa.
- The applicant must be engaged in activities other than those related to acting or theatrical performances.
- The visa applies to activities other than acting, singing, dancing, or playing music. Although the law defines this broadly, activities not covered under Categories 1, 2, or 4 will fall under Category 3.
- The applicant must be paid at least as much as a Japanese national in the same position.
- Not only performers but also production, operational, and support staff must receive compensation equal to or greater than that of Japanese workers.
(2) Required Documents for the Entertainment Visa (Category 3):
The following documents are required to obtain a Category 3 entertainment visa:
- Application for Certificate of Eligibility
- Photo (4cm x 3cm)
- Self-addressed return envelope for certified mail
- Resume and documents verifying the applicant’s professional background
- Itinerary in Japan
- Schedule of entertainment events
- Advertisements, flyers, or website screenshots promoting the event
- Copy of the employment contract or appearance agreement
- Documents detailing the inviting organization, such as:
- Certificate of registration
- Most recent financial statement (profit and loss statement, balance sheet, etc.)
- Employee list
- Documents about the venue, such as:
- Copy of the business permit
- Venue layout
- Photos of the facility
What should pro gamers (eSports players) keep in mind when applying for an entertainment visa?
(1) Tournament Schedule and Processing Time:
When applying for an entertainment visa, pro gamers (eSports players) must ensure the visa is issued in time for their scheduled tournaments. The review process for an entertainment visa typically takes one to three months. It’s important to prepare and submit the application well in advance, taking the processing time into account. This is especially crucial for eSports, where the time between the announcement of a tournament and its actual date is often short. If you start gathering documents after your participation has been confirmed, there’s a chance the visa won’t be issued in time for the event.
(2) Past Performance in Gaming Tournaments:
While not a formal requirement for a Category 3 visa, past performance in gaming tournaments may be considered during the review process. Although having no tournament experience doesn’t mean the application will automatically be denied, a history of participating in gaming tournaments can be advantageous during the evaluation process.
Need Help Applying for an Entertainment Visa?
If you’re a foreign pro gamer (eSports player) planning to participate in events in Japan, we can assist you with your entertainment visa application, whether the tournament is in Fukuoka, Tokyo, Osaka, or anywhere across Japan.
Contact us for more details and let us help ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process!
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