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April 2026 Enforcement | Mandatory Japanese Proficiency for "International Services" Visas: Pitfalls of Exemptions and the Limits of Evaluation
2026 Update: Explore the new N2 mandate for "International Services" visas. We analyze the mandatory requirements, controversial exemptions, and why the JLPT focus fails to measure the real-world productive skills needed for global talent in Japan.
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Apr 164 min read


BJT vs. JLPT N2 | Is the "400-Point Score" Really a Shortcut for the 2026 Visa Revision?
Is the BJT 400-point score truly a shortcut to a Japanese visa? With the 2026 visa revisions, many professionals are choosing the BJT over JLPT N2. Discover the hidden challenges of business Japanese, from complex Keigo to high-context culture, and find the best path for your career in Japan.
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Apr 124 min read
![[April 2026] 95% of Companies Affected! The Truth Behind the N2 Requirement for Gijinkoku Visas and the "Category Gap"](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_a38017623d9c48bc8f086339a40b2d66~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_333,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_a38017623d9c48bc8f086339a40b2d66~mv2.webp)
![[April 2026] 95% of Companies Affected! The Truth Behind the N2 Requirement for Gijinkoku Visas and the "Category Gap"](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_a38017623d9c48bc8f086339a40b2d66~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_292,h_219,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_a38017623d9c48bc8f086339a40b2d66~mv2.webp)
[2026 Update] N2 Requirement for Gijinkoku Visas (Engineer / Humanities Visa in Japan): Why 95% of Companies are Affected
[April 2026 Update] Does your Gijinkoku Visa require JLPT N2? While large firms (Cat 1 & 2) remain exempt, stricter Japanese requirements now apply to over 90% of SMEs and startups (Cat 3 & 4). Discover how the "Company Category Gap" affects your career and why N2 is now the ultimate passport for global talent in Japan.
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Apr 103 min read


New JLPT N2 Requirement for Japan’s “Engineer/Humanities” Visa: Challenges for Non-Kanji Learners in 2026
As of April 2026, significant changes have been implemented regarding the "Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services" (Gijinkoku) visa.
While this visa previously prioritized professional skills, Japanese proficiency equivalent to JLPT N2 has now become a de facto mandatory requirement.
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Apr 83 min read


Meet Our Instructor at J-CALP: Takayuki Honma
At J-CALP, we are proud to have a team of highly professional instructors who are active in a wide range of Japanese language education fields.
In this blog, we would like to introduce Mr. Takayuki Honma, who specializes in Japanese language instruction for students aiming to enter art universities.
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Dec 10, 20253 min read


Universities in Japan You Can Apply to in English Only: J-CALP English Interview Preparation
“I want to study in Japan, but I’m not ready to score high on the EJU yet…”
For those students — especially international and international-school students — J-CALP has organized a clear, level-based list of “Universities in Japan You Can Apply to in English Only.”
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Nov 11, 20254 min read


J-CALP Teacher Introduction – Ms. Shoko Kouchi
At J-CALP, we have professional teachers who are active in a wide range of Japanese language education settings.
In this blog, we would like to introduce one of them: Ms. Shoko Kouchi, Japanese language instructor!
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Sep 26, 20252 min read


J-CALP Teacher Introduction – J-CALP online education CEO & Head Teacher: Rie Tanaka
This time, we are pleased to introduce an interview with Ms. Rie Tanaka, CEO and Head Teacher of J-CALP online education!
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Sep 25, 20253 min read


Learn Business Japanese through Manga: マンガで体験!にっぽんのカイシャ - Manga de Taiken! Nippon no Kaisha
If you want to work in Japan and learn Japanese that’s actually used in the business world, then “マンガで体験!にっぽんのカイシャ - Manga de Taiken! Nippon no Kaisha” is the perfect book for you.
This book allows learners to naturally acquire uniquely Japanese business manners and expressions through manga-style storytelling. It also serves as an excellent supplementary resource for those preparing for the BJT (Business Japanese Proficiency Test).
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Jul 14, 20252 min read


Not Just JLPT! What Is the BJT That Proves Your Business Japanese Skills?
In this article, we’ll explain how BJT differs from the JLPT, how it’s evaluated, its advantages, recommended study materials, and why it’s gaining recognition in employment and visa processes.
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Jun 2, 20254 min read


Perfect for Last-Minute JLPT Practice! A Complete Guide to Mock Test Books
The JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is just over a month away! ⏳
Feeling nervous? That’s totally normal—but this is exactly when mock tests become your best weapon!
Practicing under timed conditions using real exam-style questions helps you build focus and master time management for test day. Today, we’re introducing the most effective JLPT mock test resources to power you through the final stretch! 📝🔥
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May 20, 20252 min read


How to Succeed in Studying Abroad in Japan with Only Online Lessons
In recent years, study abroad preparation styles have diversified, and succeeding in studying abroad in Japan through only online lessons has become a very realistic option💻✈️.
This article explains the advantages of preparing for studying abroad through online lessons, key points to watch out for, and practical strategies for success.
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Apr 30, 20253 min read


Improve Your JLPT & EJU Preparation! - How to Create a Vocabulary List Using Notion
Improve your JLPT & EJU prep with Notion! Create a personalized vocabulary list for better retention and efficient study.
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Feb 22, 20253 min read


Explaining Tricky Grammar: “ように”
“Learn how to use the tricky Japanese grammar point ‘ように’ with clear explanations and practical examples.
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Nov 26, 20242 min read


The Best Japanese Learning Site for Foreigners Living in Japan: Tsunagaru Hirogaru - Nihongo de no Kurashi
This time, J-CALP introduces “Tsunagaru Hirogaru” an online Japanese learning resource ideal for learners living in Japan.
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Nov 4, 20242 min read


The Best Japanese Language School for Job Hunting in Japan! - Academy of Language Arts (ALA)
This time, J-CALP proudly introduces the ALA as the ideal Japanese language school for those aiming to work in Japan.
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Oct 14, 20242 min read


Mr. Xu’s Study Abroad Diary: Income During Study Abroad (Scholarships for International Students in Japan)
Discover essential information on scholarships for international students in Japan.
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Oct 8, 20243 min read


Professional Insights: How to Choose a Japanese Language School in Japan
Discover key tips from professionals on how to choose the right Japanese language school in Japan.
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Sep 27, 20243 min read


No more struggling to find a home in Japan: Foreign Real Estate Brokerage OAKHOUSE(オークハウス)!
Find the best tips for house hunting in Japan and start your life smoothly with OAKHOUSE.
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Aug 17, 20243 min read


Take the NAT-TEST anytime: The Start of the CBT NAT-TEST!
The NAT-TEST is now available in CBT format! Like the JLPT, it is divided into five levels and corresponds to the CEFR.
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Aug 7, 20242 min read
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