When you are moving from Europe to Japan, you need a guide how to do it. Japan is a totally different country than any country in Europe. If you are ready for this great change, you should be prepared for a cultural shock, different people, jobs, laws, and lifestyle.

So, to help you get moving from Europe to Japan as easily as possible, we bring you useful tips. But, first, you need to find reliable movers for moving abroad and hire them for your relocation. International movers Japan like Kokusai Express Japan are crucial for successful moving from Europe to Japan.

Moving from Europe to Japan: customs clearance process

When moving from Europe to Japan, you will need to fill out a customs declaration form. This type of form is needed when you are sending unaccompanied baggage. These are belongings beside the suitcases that you have with you at the airport. So, you need to fill out a customs declaration form and it must be at the airport at the time. To know if you have to pay import duties and taxes you should know Japan’s law and learn about customs regulations in Japan. Japan has strict laws and regulations, so learn them if you want to avoid problems and restrictions.

Bringing medication from Europe to Japan

In Japan, you may not find some medications. So it is the best to bring the basics, such as a cough and cold, and anything else you think you’ll need. But, be aware of Japan regulations when you want to import medication. Japan customs are very strict about bringing medication into their country. So, check all about prohibited medication before you relocate from Europe to Japan, if you want to avoid breaking any laws.

For EU relocation to Japan, you need International Driver’s Permit

When you relocate from Europe to Japan it is a good idea to have an international driver’s permit. With this permit, you can drive in Japan for up to one year without having to apply for a Japanese driver’s license.  But, if you are moving from Europe to the bigger cities like Tokyo or Osaka, you might not need to have an international driver’s permit.

When you are moving from Europe to Japan bring your savings

If you are moving from Europe to Japan, try to bring with you your savings. No matter if you will have a job in Japan, you need to bring your money for agency fees, security deposit, and up to three months’ rent up front.

Also, bring Japanese/English Dictionary

Japanese/English Dictionary will be your best friend. With it, you will improve your language skills.

Short-Term and Long-Term Visas

For relocation from Europe to Japan you as a foreigner you will need a valid passport and are eligible to enter Japan without a visa.  Many countries in the world have visa-waiver arrangements with Japan. Foreigners on short-term trips, business negotiations, etc. after 90 days their visa can be renewed for another 90 days for most of the countries.

Short-Term Visas

If your country doesn’t have visa-waiver arrangements with Japan, you need to apply for a visa before coming to Japan. You can obtain a short-term visa for medical stays of up to six months.

Long-Term Visas

If you want to qualify for long-term visas you need to fill an application based on academic qualification, years of experience and other skill-related factors. The criteria for this application you can find in Immigration Bureau of Japan.

Long-term visas cover the categories of cultural activities, pre-college and college education, professional training, and dependent family members of long-term foreign residents.

Certificate of Eligibility

If you are applying for a long-term visa you need the Certificate of Eligibility. You don’t need to travel to Japan for it, you just need to run application process.

The requirements for obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility vary from category to category. This is listed in detail in the appropriate application form.

Tips for planning a move from Europe to Japan

• Don’t expect people to speak English

You don’t need to expect from Japanese people to speak English. So, try to learn basic phrases in Japan. Also, learn about the culture and history to know more about Japanese behavior and beliefs.

• Get in touch with the foreign community

Ask advice from a foreign organization to get in touch with the foreign community in Japan, which is quite active.

• Respect the local culture

Very important when you are moving from Europe to Japan – you need to respect local culture. Japanese people respect rules. So, you should also respect them. You need to be very patient for waiting in lines.

• Moving with pets – be aware of import quarantine inspection

If you are relocating from Europe to Japan with pets, you need to know pet import requirements. You need to provide a certificate of vaccination against rabies, a health certificate, and certificate of microchip implantation. Your pets will be under import quarantine inspection in Japan. If you don’t follow all the requirements, your pets will be in quarantine at a detention facility of the Animal Quarantine Service for the necessary period.

How to estimate shipping costs from Europe to Japan?

When you are moving from Europe to Japan, it is the best to ask your moving company for a quote for your specific case. Professionals will give calculate the price for your relocation. But, be aware, the more things you ship, the higher the price will be. When you are shipping household goods to Japan, your stuff will be probably shipped in 40-foot containers. If you want to ship your goods for a smaller price, it is possible to share containers with other people. But, you should know that price isn’t always significantly smaller when you are shipping things.