Japan makes it easier for skilled workers to apply for visas
Discover Japan: Simplified Visa Rules Make It Easier to Move There
If you've ever imagined yourself living and working in Japan, the good news is that it may now be easier than ever to do so. With its stunning natural beauty, seamless blend of tradition and modernity, and competitive wages, Japan is a highly attractive destination for workers from around the world.
Recent changes to Japan's visa system have made it simpler for highly skilled foreign workers to apply for residency. This has opened up a wealth of opportunities for those looking to relocate to this fascinating country, including graduates with strong qualifications and skills.
Whether you're attracted to the bright lights of Tokyo, the ancient temples of Kyoto, or the breathtaking natural landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan has something for everyone. So why not explore this unique and captivating country for yourself? With the new visa rules in place, the possibilities are endless.
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Are you an ambitious professional looking for a new adventure? Japan might just be the place for you. The country has set its sights on attracting foreign workers and investments, with the goal of boosting its economy and competitiveness. And as part of this push, Japan is simplifying its visa rules to make it easier for skilled workers and even high-flying graduates to obtain a work permit and move to the land of the rising sun.
But Japan's ambitions go beyond just attracting foreign talent. The country is aiming to gain 100 trillion yen (€669 million) from foreign direct investment by 2030, using the weak yen as an incentive. This ambitious target is 20 per cent higher than its previous aim and around double its 2022 figure. Japan plans to become Asia’s biggest startup hub, boost production and research, and become a magnet for skilled workers from around the world.
With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, beautiful natural landscapes, and high wages, Japan is already an attractive destination for foreign workers. And with simplified visa rules, it's set to become even more accessible to those who dream of experiencing its unique culture and lifestyle. So if you're ready for a new adventure and a chance to live and work in one of the world's most dynamic countries, consider making Japan your next destination.
Japan's aging population and the resulting shortage of workers are the main reasons why the country is looking to attract foreign workers. The Japanese government has projected that by 2060, there will be nearly one elderly person for each person of working age, which will be detrimental to the economy in the long run. To achieve its ambitious growth targets, Japan will need to fill this gap by looking outwards and attracting skilled professionals from other countries. Currently, Japan has about 1.8 million foreign workers, but this will need to increase to almost 7 million by 2040 to keep pace with targets set by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). As part of its efforts to become more competitive in the aftermath of the pandemic, Japan has simplified its visa requirements for highly skilled professionals, making it easier for them to live and work in the country.
Japan is simplifying its visa system by allowing certain foreign workers to bypass the current points-based system if they meet specific criteria. As of April this year, researchers and engineers with an annual income of at least 20 million yen (€134,000) and either a master's degree or 10 years of work experience can apply for a visa under the new rules. Similarly, corporate managers need an income of 40 million yen (€268,000) and five years of experience to qualify. Under this new system, eligible foreign workers will also be able to apply for permanent residency status after just one year instead of the previous requirement of three years. The simplification of the visa system is part of Japan's plan to attract skilled foreign workers and boost its economy.
Japan's start-up visa program allows foreign entrepreneurs to reside in Japan for up to one year while they establish their businesses. However, the government is reportedly considering extending the visa's duration to two years to attract more foreign entrepreneurs. The exact details of the potential extension have not yet been announced.
In addition to highly skilled professionals, Japan is also targeting young graduates from overseas, especially those from the world’s top 100 universities. According to The Mainichi, these young workers will be positioned as "future creative talent" and given "designated activities" residency status, which will allow them to stay and work in the country for two years as they search for job and entrepreneurship opportunities. This is part of Japan's efforts to attract young talent and entrepreneurs who can contribute to the country's economy and competitiveness.