Status of Residence:
Highly Skilled Professional(i)(a)

The “Highly Skilled Professional (i) (a)” residence status in Japan is a visa category established under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. It is designed for foreign nationals with advanced academic knowledge and expertise, particularly those engaged in academic research activities. The “(a)” category specifically applies to researchers, professors, and educators working at universities, research institutes, or similar organizations. This status allows highly qualified researchers to contribute to Japan’s academic and research development.

To obtain this status, applicants must go through a points-based evaluation system set by the Ministry of Justice. Factors such as academic degrees, professional experience, research achievements, and annual income are assessed, and applicants must reach a certain threshold of points. For example, holding a Ph.D. or having significant international research accomplishments grants higher scores. Compared to ordinary work visas, this status comes with preferential treatment, including longer periods of stay, permission for family accompaniment, and greater stability in residence.

Moreover, holding the “Highly Skilled Professional (i) (a)” status provides additional benefits that make life in Japan more convenient. These include a shortened residency requirement for permanent residency applications, as well as permission for spouses to work in Japan. By offering these advantages, Japan aims to attract outstanding international researchers and strengthen its academic and research environment.

5 years