Regarding Visas (i.e., the Residency Status) for Foreign National YouTubers and Vtubers
Recently, we have received inquiries from companies that manage online creators, such as YouTubers and Virtual YouTubers (hereinafter “Vtubers”). In this article, we explain cases that we have handled in obtaining visas for YouTubers and Vtubers that wish to visit or work in Japan. Please note, that for purposes of this article, we refer to residency status and visas collectively as “visas” to avoid the technical legal differences between those terms, and for purposes of readability, and ease of understanding of the reader.
Table of Contents
1: Activities Likely to Be Considered Work
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(1) Creation of content that is expected to be Monetized
Creating and posting videos in Japan that are intended to be monetized (e.g., through advertising revenue) may be regarded as paid work. Even if there is no direct employment relationship in Japan, if profits are derived from the content, a proper work-related visa or special permission for activities outside the scope of the visa currently held by the individual will be required.
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(2) Distribution of Video/Audio Content That Generates Revenue
If content created by a YouTuber or Vtuber during a stay in Japan will generate revenue via a platform operated by the individual or a third party, this activity would also be considered compensated work. Consequently, such activities require a work-related visa rather than a tourist or short-term business visa.
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(3) Real-Time Streaming With Monetary Tips (e.g., Super Chat)
If tips or donations (e.g., Super Chats) are received during live streaming, this is considered direct income. Therefore, such activities also require the “Entertainer” visa rather than a tourist or short-term business visa.
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(4) YouTubers and Vtubers visiting Japan to appear in videos or events and Create Content
Activities such as performances or content creation (e.g., live shows, productions, or filming) that generate revenue for an affiliated production company will definitely be considered “work”. Therefore, the “Entertainer” visa is mandatory in these cases.
2: What is the "Entertainer" Visa?
If revenue-generating performance or production activities take place within Japan, the ”Entertainer” visa is required. This visa is often applicable to YouTubers and Vtubers engaging in performances, video production, or music creation while in Japan.
3: Risks of Not Obtaining the Appropriate Visa
Engaging in activities without the correct visa constitutes a violation of Japan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, exposing individuals to penalties or deportation. Furthermore, future entry into Japan may be restricted, and production companies inviting such individuals could face challenges in subsequently obtaining visas. It is thus crucial to secure the appropriate visa in advance.
4: Recent Trends Surrounding the YouTuber and Vtuber Business
The development of high-performance equipment that is both small and light has enabled YouTubers and Vtubers to engage in real-time streaming and live interaction with fans from virtually anywhere. Platforms such as YouTube have made it easier to earn income through features like Super Chats, as well as paid distribution of videos and music, significantly broadening the activities of YouTubers and Vtubers.
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(1) Increased Risk of Visa Violations
While the ability to stream and interact from anywhere and to earn income through various means presents new business opportunities and expanded means of creative expression, it also increases the risk of inadvertently violating immigration laws. Therefore, securing the appropriate visa is essential for safe and sustainable activities.
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(2) Increased Government Monitoring
In response to these developments, Japan’s Immigration Services Agency has recently enhanced its oversight, including announcements on social media regarding compliance with visa requirements by entertainers such as YouTubers and Vtubers. It is increasingly important for YouTubers and Vtubers to obtain the correct visa and comply with the law.
5: Recommendation to Obtain "Entertainer" Visa
For artists and talents under contract with production companies, any activities conducted in Japan—whether compensated or not—may be interpreted as falling under the production company's control, based on the terms of the contract with production company. As such, we strongly recommend any such artists and talents to obtain the ”Entertainer” visa for all contracted activities in Japan, regardless of whether they involve direct payment.
For individuals planning such activities or production companies intending to invite talents to Japan, we recommend applying for the ”Entertainer” visa in advance. This ensures compliance with legal requirements and provides a secure foundation for uninterrupted activities.
6: Consult With Our Firm for Japanese Visa Matters
Our firm routinely assists in obtaining visas for YouTubers and Vtubers engaged in online activities, in collaboration with production companies. Our experienced immigration lawyers (called certified administrative procedures legal specialists or gyoseishoshi in Japanese), our attorneys handling legal disputes and international legal matters, and our certified public tax accountants who can advise on income and revenue-related issues form a comprehensive team to assist you in staying legally compliant while achieving your full potential in Japan. Our team of professionalsallows us to address not only your visa concerns but also a wide range of issues and uncertainties related to foreign talents. Please feel free to contact us for assistance.
