Japan Work Visa Process November 2024: Types, Eligibility, Required Documents & How to Apply

Japan Work Visa Process November 2024 - Amberz.io

Japan, known for its technological advancements and rich cultural heritage, is an increasingly attractive destination for professionals aiming to advance their careers. The Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa is a great entry route for qualified individuals seeking career growth in Japan, offering many benefits and diverse job opportunities. This guide provides an overview of the HSP Visa process, eligibility, and the job search strategies for global professionals.

The HSP Visa is part of Japan’s strategy to attract global talent, providing a pathway to work and live in Japan under advantageous conditions. This visa category stands out for its longer stay duration, flexibility for multiple professional activities, and provisions for family members to join.

Types of Japan Work Visas

Japan offers two main work visa categories:

Highly Skilled Professional Visa (HSP): This visa is for individuals with exceptional skills in specific fields, allowing a stay of up to five years.
General Working Visa: Suitable for regular employment, this visa typically has a duration of 1, 3, or 5 years and is granted based on a relevant job offer without specific skill requirements.

With plans to welcome around 500,000 foreign workers by 2025 to address its aging population, Japan’s balanced work culture, high standards of living, and reasonable cost of living make it an ideal location for foreign professionals.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants undergo a point-based assessment based on factors like education, work experience, salary, and age. A minimum of 70 points is required, with points awarded as follows:

Education: Higher degrees, such as a Ph.D., result in higher points.
Work Experience: Points increase with relevant professional experience.
Annual Salary: A higher proposed salary from a Japanese employer boosts points.
Age: Younger applicants tend to score higher in this category.

Required Documents

Job offer from a Japanese employer
Passport
Completed visa application form
Passport-size photo
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Company documentation (e.g., chart of beneficiary organization)
Academic records, CV, and proof of career achievements
Specific industry certifications, if required
Proof of job details, including duration, position, and compensation package

Certain professions, such as engineers, may also need to present:

Organization documents related to the applicant’s field
Academic proof, such as a diploma
Evidence of professional competence in the field

Application Process

Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Your employer in Japan will assist you with this process.
Apply for a Work Visa: Submit your application to the relevant local Japanese consulate or government office.

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Visa Costs

The cost of a Japanese work visa varies based on visa type, nationality, and entry options. For example:

Single-entry visa: Approximately 3,000 JPY (around 30 USD)
Multiple-entry visa: Around 6,000 JPY (about 60 USD), allowing unlimited entries and exits.

Employee Benefits in Japan

Employers in Japan contribute to social security for their employees, covering health insurance, medical care, income protection, and unemployment benefits. Key benefits include:

Minimum Wage: Prefectural standards vary between ¥951 ($6.70) to ¥1,163 ($8.10) per hour.
Maternity Leave: New mothers receive 14 weeks of paid leave at two-thirds of their base salary.
Paternity Leave: Fathers can take up to four weeks of leave within eight weeks after birth at 80% of their base pay.
Pension: After 10 years of contributions, employees are entitled to basic retirement benefits from age 65, though full benefits require 40 years of contributions.

Japan’s work visas offer a great pathway for international professionals to work in a forward-looking, culturally rich environment. With accessible application steps and employer support, Japan provides promising career development opportunities for professionals worldwide.