Japan is a country that has traditionally been known for its strong sense of nationalism and reluctance to embrace immigrants. However, with an ageing population and declining birth rates, the country has recognized the need to attract foreign workers to address its labour shortage. So, in addition to the usual work visa, Japan has decided to introduce other visas. 

Starting in April 2023, the Japanese government intends to issue these two new visas: the Japan System for Special Highly Skilled Professionals (J-SKIP) and the Japan System for Future Creation Individual Visa (J-FIND). According to sources, these visas would pave the way for a new, more straightforward immigration route for individuals with high incomes.

The new visa program introduced by the Japanese government will allow foreign researchers and engineers with a master's degree or more than 10 years of work experience, and an annual income of at least 20 million JPY to apply. The government has also stated that it will simplify the job application process for young people who have high potential and wish to work in Japan.

J-Find Visa

The J-Find system is a type of visa that allows graduates from top foreign universities to search for employment in Japan for an extended period of stay. The visa also allows family members to accompany them.

To be eligible for this visa, a foreigner must have graduated from a university that is ranked within the top 100 on two designated world ranking lists. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan will be using the QS Top Universities, the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, and Shanghai University’s Academic Ranking of World Universities for determining the university rankings. 

There can be concerns regarding the credibility of these ranking systems but still, these are useful. Moreover, the applicant must have at least 200,000 JPY upon arrival in Japan. The visa, known as the "designated activities" visa, enables the holder to stay for up to two years and search for jobs.

J-SKIP Visa

Researchers, engineers, or high-level managers are eligible to apply for positions and immigrate to Japan under the J-SKIP visa. These applicants would be able to bypass the present point-based system and be given consideration for the highly skilled professional visa, as indicated by the visa's name.

A person is only given consideration for the highly skilled professional status under the present system, which was implemented in 2012 if they receive 70 points or more under the "preferential immigration treatment system." The candidates are graded as per their published research, academic record, and level of Japanese ability.

Once a candidate is designated as a Level 1 professional, they will be granted a five-year stay in Japan and will be allowed to work in their professional field. After three years of work, if they upgrade to Level 2, they can stay in Japan indefinitely and will have no or minimal work restrictions.

For J-SKIP, researchers and engineers can apply if they have a master's degree and earn an annual income of at least 20 million Yen, or have at least 10 years of work experience and an income of 20 million Yen or more. 

Managers must have a minimum of five years of work experience and an annual income of 40 million Yen or more. Under both visa paths, candidates' spouses and family members will be allowed to stay in Japan with them.

Conclusion

Japan with J-Find and J-Skip visa pathways is planning to attract high-earning and skilled workers. These visa pathways aim to boost Japan's economy and maintain its competitiveness in the global market. With this move, Japan has joined the international competition for immigration and is making strides to attract top talent from around the world.

FAQS

What is the purpose of Japan's new visa pathways? 

The purpose of Japan's new visa pathways is to attract high-earning and skilled workers to boost Japan's economy and maintain its competitiveness in the global market.

How will the new visa programs introduced by Japan benefit the country's economy? 

The new visa programs are expected to attract high-earning and skilled workers to Japan, which will help boost the country's economy and maintain its competitiveness in the global market.