Status of Residence:
Highly Skilled Professional(ii)

The “Highly Skilled Professional (ii)” residence status in Japan is a visa category under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. It is designed for foreign nationals who have already obtained the “Highly Skilled Professional (i)” status and demonstrated achievements in their field. Unlike the first stage, this status allows the holder to engage in all three types of advanced activities — academic research, specialized/technical work, and business management — without restriction, giving them much greater flexibility in their professional activities in Japan.

To qualify for this status, an individual must first hold the “Highly Skilled Professional (i)” visa and meet certain conditions, such as having accumulated sufficient experience. Once approved for “Highly Skilled Professional (ii),” the person is granted an indefinite period of stay, meaning they no longer need to renew their visa. Additionally, the system provides extensive preferential treatment, including unrestricted work opportunities for spouses, permission to bring parents under certain conditions, and even the ability to employ household staff. These benefits make it easier for highly skilled professionals and their families to build a stable life in Japan.

Moreover, this status plays a strategic role in Japan’s efforts to attract and retain top international talent. By offering a permanent and flexible framework, it enables outstanding professionals to focus on their research, technological development, or business management without concerns about immigration limitations. As a result, “Highly Skilled Professional (ii)” contributes not only to the personal stability of foreign residents but also to Japan’s academic advancement, technological innovation, and global competitiveness.

No deadline