Highly Skilled Professional Visa

Highly Skilled Professional Visa 

This visa is designed for individuals with advanced professional skills and strong academic or career backgrounds. It operates on a points-based system and offers significant advantages for long-term residency in Japan.

To qualify for a Highly Skilled Professional Visa, applicants need at least 70 points, which grants them a 5-year visa with priority benefits. Reaching 80 points offers even greater advantages, including the fastest path to permanent residency — eligibility after just one year.

Key Requirements

  1. Points-Based Evaluation (70+ Points Required)
    Points are awarded for:
  • Academic background (e.g., Master’s or PhD)
  • Professional career history
  • Annual income
  • Age
  • Research achievements, publications, or industry recognition
  • Job position 
  • Language abilities
  • Etc.
  1. Eligible Activity Categories
    1. Highly Skilled (Academic): Researchers, university professors, specialists in academic fields.
    2. Highly Skilled (Technical & Professional): Engineers, IT specialists, corporate professionals with advanced expertise.
    3. Highly Skilled (Business Management): Executives, directors, and individuals managing or operating companies in Japan.
  2. Employment/Contract Requirements
  • Must have a job offer or employment contract that supports the claimed points and activity type.
  • Compensation typically needs to meet a certain income level depending on the highly skilled category.

Duration & Process

Visa Duration: 

  • Highly Skilled (1st Category): Usually 5 years.
  • Highly Skilled (2nd Category): Offers indefinite stay once approved. This category can be achieved after staying in Japan for 3years+ under the 1st category visa.
  • Fast Track to Permanent Residency:
    • PR possible after 1 year (with 80+ points),
    • Or after 3 years (with 70+ points).
  • COE: Required for applicants entering from overseas.
  • Priority Processing: Faster immigration handling and more flexible work permissions.

Additional Benefits

  • Ability to engage in multiple activities (e.g., work + research + management).
  • Spouse receives work permission.
  • Parents and domestic helpers may be eligible for special admission under certain conditions.