Moving to Japan doesn’t require much persuasion from me; all you have to do is whisper “ramen” and “sushi” in my ear, and I’ll be there faster than Tokyo Drift. Fortunately for some of us, moving to the island nation has become easier with a simplified visa system.
An aging population that’s resulted in a worker shortage has prompted the Japanese government to aim for almost 7 million foreign workers by 2040 to enhance its economy and competitiveness, with the goal of becoming Asia’s largest startup hub. To attract skilled professionals, Japan has simplified its visa requirements for move-in entry.
What is Japan doing to simplify its visa system?
Foreign workers meeting the criteria, such as researchers and engineers with a master’s degree or a decade of work experience and earning at least $147,000 annually, can bypass Japan’s points-based visa system and become eligible for permanent residency status after just one year instead of three.
Corporate managers must have an income of $295,000 and five years of experience to qualify. The country’s start-up visa may also permit entrepreneurs looking to launch a business in Japan to stay longer, though specifics haven’t been revealed yet.
Japan also plans to attract graduates from the world’s top 100 universities by positioning them as “future creative talent”. These workers will be given “designated activities” residency status, allowing them to stay for up to two years while searching for employment or entrepreneurship opportunities.
by travelers, for travelers.
