1. What type of visa do I need to enter Japan as a Highly Skilled Professional?

As a Highly Skilled Professional, you can enter Japan with a Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa. This visa is specifically designed for individuals who possess advanced skills and qualifications in their field and aims to attract highly talented and skilled individuals to contribute to Japan’s economy and society.

2. How do I apply for a HSP visa?
To apply for an HSP visa, you must first have your eligibility assessed by the Immigration Bureau of Japan. You can either apply for this assessment through a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country or directly at the Immigration Bureau in Japan if you are already residing in the country.

Once your eligibility has been confirmed, you can then submit your application for the HSP visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate, providing all necessary documents and information.

3. What documents do I need to provide for my HSP visa application?
The exact documents required may vary depending on your specific circumstances, but generally, you will need to provide the following:

– Passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
– Visa application form
– One recent passport-sized photograph
– Certificate of Eligibility issued by the Immigration Bureau of Japan
– Proof of employment or job offer from a company in Japan
– Proof of academic qualifications and professional experience
– Evidence of financial stability (bank statements, tax returns, etc.)
– Criminal record certificate from your country of residence

4. Is there a points system for obtaining an HSP visa?
Yes, there is a points-based system used by the Immigration Bureau to evaluate an individual’s eligibility for the HSP visa. Points are awarded based on factors such as educational background, work experience, salary level, age, language proficiency, and other relevant achievements.

To be eligible for an HSP visa, you must score at least 70 points out of 100 on this evaluation.

5. How long is the processing time for an HSP visa?
The processing time for an HSP visa can vary, but it typically takes around 1-3 months from the date of application. However, this may be longer if additional documents or information is required.

6. Can my family members accompany me on an HSP visa?
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can accompany you to Japan on an HSP visa without needing to apply for their own visas. However, they will need to obtain a Dependent Residence card once in Japan.

7. How long is the validity of an HSP visa?
The initial validity for an HSP visa is up to 5 years, with the possibility of renewal. After 5 years, you may be eligible for permanent residency in Japan.

8. Is there a limit on the number of individuals who can obtain an HSP visa?
There is no specific quota for the number of HSP visas issued in a year; however, the Immigration Bureau does have a target number of highly skilled professionals they aim to attract each year.

9. Can I change jobs while on an HSP visa?
Yes, you are allowed to change jobs while on an HSP visa; however, you must notify the Immigration Bureau within 14 days of changing employers.

10. Can I bring my spouse and children if I am applying for permanent residency through the HSP visa?
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can also apply for permanent residency along with you if they are living with you in Japan under your Dependent Residence status at that time.

2. What are the criteria for obtaining a Highly Skilled Professional visa for Japan?

To obtain a Highly Skilled Professional visa for Japan, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Academic or work experience: Applicants must have at least 10 years of professional experience, including 3 years of specialized work experience in their field of expertise.

2. Job offer from a Japanese company: Candidates must have a job offer from a Japanese company for highly skilled work that requires extensive knowledge and experience.

3. Salary requirement: The annual salary for the offered position must be at least 4 million yen (approximately $37,000 USD).

4. Points-based evaluation: Applicants are evaluated on a point-based system, with points awarded based on factors such as education level, work experience, language proficiency, and annual salary.

5. Educational background: Highly skilled professionals must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.

6. Demonstrated expertise in the designated field: Applicants must demonstrate significant achievements or contributions in their designated field through publications, patents, awards, or other recognized achievements.

7. Health and character requirements: Applicants must be in good health and have no criminal record.

8. Valid passport: Applicants must possess a valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration.

9. Proof of financial stability: Candidates are required to submit evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Japan.

10. Knowledge of Japanese language: While not required, knowledge of the Japanese language may increase an applicant’s chances of approval.

11. Proof of ties to home country: Applicants must provide evidence that they plan to return to their home country after completing their employment in Japan.

12. Compliance with immigration laws and regulations: The applicant should have no history of violation against immigration laws and regulations in Japan.

3. How long is the validity period for a Highly Skilled Professional visa in Japan?

The validity period for a Highly Skilled Professional visa in Japan varies depending on the category.

For Category 1 (Highly Skilled Professionals with 70 points or more):
– The initial residence period is valid for up to 5 years.
– Upon renewal, the extension will be granted for 5 years.

For Category 2 (Highly Skilled Professionals with 70 points or less):
– The initial residence period is valid for up to 3 years.
– Upon renewal, the extension will be granted for a maximum of 3 years.

For Category 3 (Highly Skilled Foreign Professional in Technology/Engineering or Humanities/International Services):
– The visa is initially issued for up to one year.
– It is renewable after one year, and thereafter can be extended for three years at a time.

For all categories, the visa may be renewed before the expiration date by submitting an application to the Immigration Bureau of Japan.

4. Can I bring my family on a dependent visa if I am a Highly Skilled Professional in Japan?

Yes, you can bring your family on a dependent visa if you are considered a Highly Skilled Professional in Japan. Dependents eligible for this type of visa include spouses, children under the age of 20, and parents aged 60 or older. You will need to provide proof of your relationship with your dependents and demonstrate that you have the financial means to support them during their stay in Japan. More information on the requirements for a dependent visa can be found on the website of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan in your home country.

5. Is there an age limit for applying for a Highly Skilled Professional visa in Japan?

Yes, applicants for a Highly Skilled Professional visa in Japan must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. There is no upper age limit, but applicants must meet the other eligibility requirements, including having a certain level of education and experience in their field.

6. What are the benefits of being classified as a Highly Skilled Professional in Japan?

There are several benefits of being classified as a Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) in Japan, including:

1. Preferential treatment for visa applications: HSP applicants are given priority for their visa applications and may receive them more quickly than regular applicants.

2. Longer visa validity period: If approved as an HSP, the visa granted will have a longer validity period, allowing for longer stays in Japan without needing to renew the visa.

3. Multiple entry permission: HSPs with a valid visa can enter and exit Japan multiple times within the validity period of their visa without having to apply for a re-entry permit.

4. Permission to work in any field: HSPs are permitted to work in any professional field without having to get permission from the immigration office or change their residency status.

5. Ability to bring family members: HSPs can sponsor their spouse, children, and parents to join them in Japan under dependent visas.

6. Fast-track permanent residency application: After living and working in Japan as an HSP for one year or more, individuals may be eligible to apply for permanent residency on a fast-tracked timeline.

7. Tax benefits: HSPs may be eligible for certain tax exemptions or deductions that regular workers do not receive.

8. Other privileges: Depending on the individual’s specific situation and qualifications, they may also have access to other privileges such as easier access to housing accommodations and discounts on transportation fees.

Overall, being designated as an HSP provides numerous advantages that make it an attractive option for skilled professionals looking to live and work in Japan.

7. Are there any language requirements for the Highly Skilled Professional visa application in Japan?

Yes, the main language requirement for the Highly Skilled Professional visa application in Japan is a basic level of Japanese proficiency. This is necessary for daily communication and understanding of Japanese laws and customs while living and working in Japan.

Additionally, if you are applying for a Category 2 or 3 visa (based on academic or professional achievements), you may need to submit evidence of your language proficiency through standardized tests such as the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or the Business Japanese Proficiency Test.

However, please note that having a higher level of Japanese proficiency can significantly increase your chances of being approved for the visa and may also qualify you for additional points under the point-based system.

8. How can I prove my proficiency as a highly skilled professional for my Japanese visa application?

To prove your proficiency as a highly skilled professional for a Japanese visa application, you can do the following:

1. Provide relevant educational qualifications and work experience: Submit your resume or CV along with copies of your educational degrees, certification, and work experience to show that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge required for the job.

2. Obtain a letter of support from your employer: Request a letter of support from your current or prospective employer highlighting your skills, experience, and qualifications that make you a valuable asset to their organization.

3. Show proof of specialized training or expertise: If you have any specialized training or expertise related to your profession, provide certificates or documents as evidence. This will demonstrate that you have acquired additional skills and knowledge in your field.

4. Submit letters of recommendation: Ask colleagues, supervisors, or clients to write letters of recommendation for you mentioning specific examples of your strong work ethic, problem-solving abilities, and other relevant skills.

5. Share documentation of achievements: If you have received any awards, accolades, or recognition for your work in the past, include them as part of your application as they demonstrate the level of excellence in your profession.

6. Include language proficiency test results: Many professions in Japan require specific levels of language proficiency. Include official test results from recognized language exams like JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) to show that you meet these requirements.

7. Present portfolios or samples of previous work: If applicable to your profession, include samples of previous projects or portfolios demonstrating the quality and complexity of your work.

8. Provide proof of income/employment status: To showcase that you are an established professional with stable income/employment prospects in Japan, submit pay stubs/certificates/tax returns proving ongoing employment or income from previous jobs.

9. Make use of online tools: You can also showcase your online presence by providing links to professional networking sites like LinkedIn where potential employers can view your accomplishments and skills.

10. Utilize a cover letter: A well-written cover letter can also support your application by providing more details about your experience, skills, and goals as a highly skilled professional in Japan.

9. Can I switch to another type of visa while holding a Highly Skilled Professional status in Japan?

It is not possible to switch from a Highly Skilled Professional status to another type of visa in Japan. In order to obtain a different visa, such as a work visa or student visa, you would need to leave Japan and apply for the new visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.

10. Do I need job offers or employment contracts to apply for a Highly Skilled Professional visa in Japan?

No, you do not need job offers or employment contracts to apply for a Highly Skilled Professional visa in Japan. However, having a job offer or employment contract can help strengthen your application and increase your chances of approval. It also shows that you have a clear plan and purpose for coming to Japan as a highly skilled professional.

11. Are there any restrictions on the type of work that qualified professionals can engage in under this visa category in Japan?

Yes, there are restrictions on the type of work that can be engaged in under this visa category. Qualified professionals are only allowed to engage in activities related to their designated field of expertise as specified in their visa. They may not engage in work outside of this specialization or take on jobs that require a different set of skills or qualifications. Additionally, they must follow all laws and regulations pertaining to their profession and maintain good standing with any relevant professional organizations.

12. Can I extend my stay under the Highly Skilled Professional category if my employment contract is extended?

Yes, you can extend your stay under the Highly Skilled Professional category if your employment contract is extended. You must submit an application for a renewal of your residence status before your current residence permit expires. Your employer will also need to provide documentation showing that your contract has been extended.

13. Is it possible to bring domestic staff with me on this visa to assist with child care or housework?

No, the dependent visa does not allow the holder to bring non-family members, such as domestic staff, with them onto the visa. The only individuals who can accompany a dependent on this type of visa are their spouse and/or children. Any other individuals who wish to come with the dependent will need to apply for their own appropriate visa.

14. Is it mandatory to have a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification to apply for the Highly Skilled Professional Visa category in Japan?

Yes, it is mandatory to have a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification to apply for the Highly Skilled Professional Visa category in Japan. This is one of the main requirements for this visa category, along with meeting certain salary and experience criteria. Applicants who do not have a bachelor’s degree may be eligible for other visa categories based on their specialized skills or experience.

15. Can self-employed individuals apply for the Highly Skilled Professional Visa Category in Japan?

Yes, self-employed individuals may be eligible to apply for the Highly Skilled Professional Visa Category in Japan if they meet the qualifying criteria. The visa category is primarily designed for highly skilled and specialized foreign professionals who have been hired by Japanese companies or organizations, but self-employed workers can also be considered if they meet the required points threshold and have a valid business plan in Japan. Additionally, self-employed applicants will need to provide evidence of their financial stability and qualifications in their field of expertise.

16. Does having previous work experience or study experience in Japan give me an advantage when applying for this visa category?

It may give you an advantage as it shows that you have experience living and working in Japan, which could potentially make your application stronger. Additionally, having work or study experience in Japan can also demonstrate that you have a better understanding of the culture and language, which can be beneficial for the visa category you are applying for. However, having previous experience alone does not guarantee approval for the visa. Your application will still be evaluated based on your overall qualifications and eligibility for the specific visa category.

17. Are there any specific industries or sectors that are favored under the Highly Skilled Professional Visa category in Japan?

The Highly Skilled Professional Visa category in Japan is targeted towards individuals with highly specialized skills and expertise, regardless of industry or sector. However, individuals in the fields of engineering, IT, healthcare, research and development, and business management are often considered highly desirable under this visa category. Additionally, Japan has a strong demand for foreign professionals in industries such as renewable energy, finance, and education.

18. Can an individual enrolled in higher education programs, such as masters or doctoral courses, receive the benefits of this visa category in Japan?

Yes, individuals enrolled in higher education programs such as masters or doctoral courses may be eligible for a student visa in Japan. They would need to meet the eligibility requirements and follow the application process outlined by the Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country. This may include providing proof of enrollment and financial support, meeting health and character requirements, and fulfilling any other necessary criteria.

19. Are there any requirements for minimum annual salary or income to apply for the Highly Skilled Professional Visa in Japan?

Yes, there are minimum salary requirements for the Highly Skilled Professional Visa in Japan. Applicants must have an annual salary of at least 4 million yen (approximately $36,000 USD) or higher to be eligible for this visa category. This requirement may vary depending on the specific profession and skills of the applicant. Additionally, applicants must also demonstrate that they have the financial means to support themselves while living in Japan.

20. Can family members of a Highly Skilled Professional work or study while residing in Japan on a dependent visa?

Yes, family members of a Highly Skilled Professional can work or study while residing in Japan on a dependent visa. However, they will need to obtain permission to engage in these activities from the Japanese Immigration Bureau.