Status of Residence:
Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services

The visa status of residence called “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” is one of the work-related residence statuses under Japan’s Immigration Control Act. It is designed for foreign nationals who possess specialized knowledge or skills and wish to work in Japan. This status is not intended for simple labor but rather for professional, knowledge-based occupations, often categorized as white-collar jobs.

The scope of this visa is divided into three main categories. The “Engineer” category covers professions requiring expertise in natural sciences, such as information technology engineers or mechanical designers. The “Specialist in Humanities” category applies to jobs requiring knowledge in humanities and social sciences, including law, economics, or sociology, such as corporate planning, accounting, or human resources. The “International Services” category is intended for jobs that require foreign language proficiency or cross-cultural understanding, such as interpreters, translators, or international business activities like overseas trade.

To qualify for this status, applicants generally need to meet educational requirements, such as a university degree, or demonstrate a certain number of years of relevant professional experience. Employers must also meet requirements to ensure proper business operations and fair working conditions. In essence, the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” status provides a legal framework to facilitate the employment of highly skilled foreign professionals, thereby supporting Japan’s globalization and economic development.

5 years, 3 years, 1 year or 3 months