Japan offers a permanent residency visa to foreigners who meet specific criteria, particularly those contributing to the country through work and skill.
For skilled workers, the pathway to permanent residency opens opportunities for long-term employment, a stable life in Japan, and the freedom to work in any field.
Unlike regular visas, permanent residency is not tied to a specific employer or job.
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How to Apply for Permanent Residency in Japan as a Skilled Worker
This kind of Visa provides more security and flexibility for foreigners aiming to settle permanently in Japan.
In this guide, we will cover the steps and requirements for skilled workers who wish to apply for permanent residency in Japan, offering tips on how to strengthen your application and increase the chances of success.
1. Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for permanent residency, you must meet specific eligibility requirements:
Duration of Stay: Typically, you must have lived in Japan for at least 10 consecutive years, with at least 5 years under a working visa.
Exceptions are made for highly skilled workers, who can qualify after just 1 to 3 years, depending on their score on Japan’s points-based immigration system.
Highly Skilled Professionals: Japan offers a fast-track option for highly skilled professionals, such as researchers, engineers, and academic professionals, through the Highly Skilled Foreign Professional (HSFP) visa.
Those who achieve a certain score on this system (usually 70 or more points) may apply for permanent residency after just one year of living in Japan.
Clean Criminal Record: Applicants must have no criminal history in Japan or any other country and must have paid all taxes during their stay.
Financial Stability: You must prove that you can financially support yourself and your family, with documentation showing sufficient income and stable employment.
2. Points-Based System for Highly Skilled Professionals
The points-based system is Japan’s method of evaluating and attracting talented individuals in fields like academia, technology, and management.
The system assigns points based on education, work experience, annual salary, and contributions to Japan.
Professionals scoring over 70 points may benefit from an expedited residency process.
Here’s how you can boost your points:
Education: A higher degree such as a master’s or PhD will earn you more points.
Work Experience: Longer work experience in your field adds points.
Salary: Higher salaries also boost your score.
Research Achievements: Publishing research papers or having patents registered in your name can significantly improve your score.
3. Required Documents
Once eligible, the following documents are needed for your residency in Japan as a skilled worker application:
Application for Permanent Residence: The form can be downloaded from the Japan Immigration Services website.
Residence Card: Proof of current residency status.
Tax Certificates: Documents confirming that you have paid your taxes for the last few years.
Employment Certificate: A letter from your employer, confirming your job and salary details.
Proof of Income: Recent salary slips and bank statements to show financial stability.
Contribution to Japan: Documents that show your contribution to Japanese society, such as any volunteer work, or contribution to the economy through innovation, research, or business.
4. Application Process
Here’s how to apply for permanent residency in Japan as a skilled worker:
Step 1: Compile Documents: Gather all the required documents.
Ensure your tax records are up-to-date, and your employment certificate accurately reflects your position and income.
Step 2: Submit Application: Submit the application to your local immigration office.
It’s advisable to make a copy of all your documents before submission.
Step 3: Processing Time: It can take between 6 to 12 months for your application to be processed.
During this time, you must continue holding a valid work visa and stay in Japan.
5. Benefits of Permanent Residency
Once you obtain residency in Japan as a skilled worker, you will enjoy several advantages:
Unrestricted Employment: You can switch jobs or start a business without needing visa renewals.
Long-term Stay: You won’t have to worry about renewing visas, making travel easier.
Access to Loans and Housing: Permanent residents are more likely to qualify for mortgages and loans.
Family Residency: Your spouse and children can also apply for permanent residency once you’ve obtained it.
FAQs on How to Apply for Permanent Residency in Japan as a Skilled Worker
How long do I need to work in Japan before applying for permanent residency?
You typically need to have lived and worked in Japan for 10 years, but highly skilled professionals can apply after just 1 to 3 years.
Can my family move to Japan with me if I get permanent residency?
Yes, your immediate family members (spouse and children) can apply for residency once you secure your own.
What happens if I lose my job during the application process?
It’s essential to maintain a valid work visa throughout the application process.
Losing your job could jeopardize your application unless you find another sponsor quickly.
Do I need to know Japanese to qualify?
Although there’s no formal language requirement for permanent residency, knowing Japanese can increase your integration into society and may improve your points for highly skilled professionals.
Conclusion
Securing permanent residency in Japan as a skilled worker involves meeting various eligibility criteria and submitting an extensive set of documents.
When you follow those steps you will be able to get a permanent Residency in Japan as a Skilled Worker.
However, the benefits of permanent residency are significant, offering you long-term security and freedom in Japan.
By understanding the points-based system, eligibility requirements, and steps for applying, you can smoothly navigate the process to secure a future in Japan.