BJT or JLPT: which one should you take for your visa?
Both tests can prove your Japanese to immigration. They differ in when you can sit, how fast you get a result, and where they are accepted.
Short answer
If a visa rule accepts BJT and you need the certificate soon, BJT is faster: you can sit it on almost any day and leave with your score. If your employer asks for JLPT by name, or you are applying for a Specified Skilled Worker visa, take JLPT.
Two tests, two calendars
| JLPT in Japan | BJT | |
|---|---|---|
| How often | Twice a year, July and December | Almost every day at test centres |
| 2026 dates | 5 July and 6 December | Any open slot you book |
| Applications | For December 2026: 17 August to 7 September | Any time, online |
| Format | Paper | Computer, 80 questions, about 2 hours |
| Result | Online about 7 weeks later | Score report on the same day |
| Certificate | About 12 weeks later | Printable after 3 days |
| Retake | 6 months | After 3 months |
| Fee in Japan | ¥7,500 | ¥8,000 |
If you decide now, in autumn 2026, the next JLPT you can apply for in Japan is in July 2027. Its dates are not announced yet. With the 2026 pattern, the certificate would arrive in late September 2027.
Where BJT counts
Immigration rules name BJT scores next to JLPT levels. A score of 400 is treated like N2, and 480 like N1.
- Highly Skilled Professional points: 400 gives 10 points, 480 gives 15 points.
- Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa: BJT is a recognised proof of Japanese; 400 is treated like N2.
- Business Manager visa: since 16 October 2025, the owner or a full-time employee needs Japanese at B2 level. BJT 400 or JLPT N2 both meet it.
- Designated Activities for graduates of Japanese universities looking for work: 480, like N1.
- Student visa: 400 for university admission, 300 for a Japanese language school.
Where you need JLPT or another test
- Specified Skilled Worker and Employment for Skill Development visas use JFT-Basic or JLPT (N4 for the skilled worker visa). BJT is not listed.
- Job ads that say "JLPT N2 or above". Some employers accept a BJT score instead and some do not. Ask before you apply.
How to choose
- Your visa rule lists BJT and you need the result within months: take BJT.
- You are not sure you will reach the score: take BJT, because you can retake it every three months.
- Your employer or visa names JLPT only: take JLPT.
- You work in Japanese every day: BJT tests business situations such as calls, meetings and emails, so your daily work is your practice.
See where you stand before you book.
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