Visa preparation

I've started to work through the visa process for entering Japan. There is a strange disconnect between a couple of the governmental organizations that handle immigration that's kind of interesting. The consulate systems offer two ways to get a visa as a spouse of a Japanese national: either via a Tokyo-based pre approval process or through a Seattle-based one-time approval. Since we're not in Tokyo, we're interested in the Seattle-based process. However, when my wife called the central immigration office, they insisted that the Tokyo-based approval process (Certificate of Eligability) is the only option for obtaining a visa. But the consulate disagrees.

All this back and forth makes me a little uncomfortable. If there is a SNAFU that comes up and delays my visa, I hope that the company that offered me the job doesn't get scared off.

There are times I hate dealing with the government - any country's government, really.

Looks like I'm going to Tokyo

After a couple of back and forth questions, I think I'll be taking this Tokyo position. It will be a bit of cultural shock but it's a hell of an opportunity. Pretty solid pay and benefits, too.