Immigration Lawyer vs DIY Visa Application in Japan: Which Is Better?

If you’re applying for a visa or status of residence in Japan, you’ll eventually face this decision:

Should I hire an immigration lawyer, or apply by myself?

Both options are legal. Both work.
But the right choice depends on your situation, risk level, and long-term goals.

This article breaks down the real differences between using an immigration lawyer and doing a DIY visa application in Japan, including costs, risks, approval chances, and when each option makes sense.

What Does an Immigration Lawyer (Gyoseishoshi) Do in Japan?

In Japan, visa applications are handled by Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialists (行政書士 / Gyoseishoshi), commonly referred to as immigration lawyers.

They can:

• Prepare and submit visa applications on your behalf

• Communicate directly with immigration

• Draft explanation letters and legal justifications

• Identify risks before you apply

⚠️ They do not influence decisions — immigration still decides.

DIY Visa Application: What It Really Means

A DIY application means:

• You prepare all documents yourself

• You submit directly to immigration

• You communicate with immigration officers personally

Japan’s system allows and expects foreigners to self-apply, especially for standard cases.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Hiring a lawyer does not guarantee approval.

When DIY Is Usually the Best Choice

DIY is often perfectly fine if:

✔ You have a standard case
✔ No immigration violations
✔ Stable employer and income
✔ Clear documents
✔ Simple renewal or change

Common DIY-friendly cases:

• Work visa renewal (same job)

• Student visa extension

• Dependent visa renewal

• First-time work visa with strong employer support

💡 Many long-term residents in Japan never use a lawyer.

When an Immigration Lawyer Is Strongly Recommended

A lawyer is worth the cost if you have any risk factors, such as:

❌ Previous visa rejection
❌ Overstay or violation history
❌ Borderline income or points
❌ Self-sponsorship or freelancing
❌ Business Manager visa
❌ Permanent Residency application
❌ HSP points close to the threshold

In these cases, one mistake can cost years.

Approval Chances: Lawyer vs DIY (Reality Check)

This is important:

• Immigration decides based on documents and facts

• Lawyers cannot “argue” you into approval

• A bad case stays bad — even with a lawyer

What lawyers do improve:

• Document quality

• Risk explanation

• Strategy and timing

• Avoidable mistakes

They reduce rejection risk, not raise eligibility.

Cost Breakdown (Typical)

Government application fees are usually ¥4,000–¥10,000 regardless.

Hidden Risks of DIY Applications

DIY mistakes often include:

• Using incorrect income figures

• Submitting weak explanation letters

• Missing deadlines

• Applying too early or too late

• Choosing the wrong visa category

⚠️ Rejections are on record and can affect future applications.

A Smart Hybrid Approach (Recommended)

Many successful applicants use a hybrid strategy:

1. Prepare documents yourself

2. Pay for a one-time consultation

3. Submit the application DIY

This costs far less than full representation and catches major risks.

Which Option Is Better for Permanent Residency?

For PR applications:

• DIY is possible

• Lawyer support is often worth it

PR rejections typically result from:

• Tax issues

• Weak reason statements

• Timing mistakes

• Incomplete records

Because PR affects your entire future in Japan, many applicants choose professional review.

Final Thoughts

There is no universal “best” option.

• DIY works well for clear, low-risk cases

• Immigration lawyers add value in complex, high-stakes situations

The real danger isn’t applying yourself — it’s applying without understanding the risks.

If your situation is straightforward, DIY can save money.
If your case is complicated, a lawyer can save years.

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