In April 2023, the Japanese government launched two new residency programs designed to attract top-tier talent from around the world: J-Skip (Japan System for Special Highly Skilled Professionals) and J-Find (Future Creation Individual Visa).

These programs differ from the traditional "Highly Skilled Professional" (HSP) points-based system. They are part of a strategic initiative to keep Japan competitive in the global race for talent. This article explains the requirements and preferential measures for these two systems based on the latest regulations.
 

1. What is J-Skip (Japan System for Special Highly Skilled Professionals)?

J-Skip is a streamlined track for foreign professionals with advanced expertise. Unlike the traditional HSP system which requires applicants to calculate points for education, career history, annual income, and age to reach a 70-point threshold, J-Skip simplifies the process. Under J-Skip, you qualify primarily by meeting specific "Education/Career" and "Income" benchmarks.

Activity Types and Requirements for J-Skip

To qualify for J-Skip, applicants must meet the criteria in one of the following three categories:

① Advanced Academic Research or Specialized/Technical Activities (Researchers, Engineers, etc.)

For those in R&D or technical fields, you must meet one of the following:

• Hold a Master’s degree or higher AND an annual income of at least 20 million JPY (approx. $135,000 USD).
• Have at least 10 years of practical experience in the relevant field AND an annual income of at least 20 million JPY.

② Advanced Business Management Activities (Executives, Managers, etc.)

For those in corporate leadership:

• Have at least 5 years of experience in business management or administration AND an annual income of at least 40 million JPY (approx. $270,000 USD).

Key Preferential Measures for J-Skip

J-Skip holders receive the "Highly Skilled Professional (i)" visa with expanded benefits compared to the standard version:

• Fast-track to Permanent Residency: While standard HSP holders usually need 3 years to apply for "Type (ii)" (indefinite stay), J-Skip holders can apply after just 1 year.
• Relaxed Work Requirements for Spouses: Spouses of J-Skip holders can work full-time in specialized roles (Research, Humanities, etc.) even if they do not meet the typical degree or experience requirements.
• Easier Sponsorship of Domestic Staff: Under certain conditions (such as a household income over 30 million JPY), holders may employ up to two foreign domestic workers.
• Priority Lane Access: Holders can use priority lanes at major Japanese airports for faster immigration processing.

2. What is J-Find (Future Creation Individual Visa)?

J-Find is a "job-hunting and entrepreneurship" visa designed to allow high-potential graduates from the world's top universities to stay in Japan while seeking employment or launching a startup.

Unlike a standard "Temporary Visitor" visa, J-Find allows for a stay of up to two years, encouraging top-tier young talent to integrate into Japanese society.

Application Requirements for J-Find

Applicants must meet all three of the following criteria:

1. Top-Tier University Graduate: You must have graduated from (or completed a graduate program at) a university ranked in the top 100 of at least two of the three major world rankings (QS, THE, or Shanghai Ranking).
2. Recent Graduate: The application must be made within 5 years of graduation.
3. Proof of Funds: You must have at least 200,000 JPY (approx. $1,350 USD) in savings to cover initial living expenses.

Key Features and Benefits of J-Find

• Up to Two Years of Stay: The visa is typically granted for 6 months or 1 year and is renewable for a total stay of up to two years.
• Family Inclusion: Spouses and children are permitted to accompany the visa holder.
• Permission to Work: Holders are allowed to work to supplement their funds while they conduct their job search or business preparation, making it financially more accessible than previous job-seeker visas.

3. Comparison with the Traditional System

4. Conclusion

"J-Skip" and "J-Find" are essential tools for driving innovation in Japan. J-Skip offers a high-speed lane for world-class researchers and executives to settle quickly with their families. Conversely, J-Find provides a massive incentive for the brightest young minds to choose Japan as the place to start their careers.

As these programs are relatively new, specific interpretations and operational details may vary by case. It is highly recommended to check the latest guidelines from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan to ensure eligibility.

Contact us

Complete this form and an RSM Shiodome Partners representative will be in touch.